As from today, Comet – which is owned by Kesa Electricals – will offer the service on goods such as TVs and washing machines to customers ordering before 2pm Sunday to Friday and before noon on Saturdays.
The initiative demonstrates how non-food retailers are gunning to improve home delivery fulfilment in an effort to increase market share in the face of intense competition.
Industry observers say non-food groups have been slow to mirror the home delivery improvements pioneered by grocers such as Ocado and Tesco.com, whose standards are increasingly regarded as a benchmark by consumers.
Comet is also offering shoppers four-hour delivery slots for the first time, as well as next-day installation, which means customers can have products up and running within 24 hours.
Previously, Comet offered delivery within two to five days. Rival DSGi offers delivery within four days on large items, but not next-day delivery. Catalogue giant Argos delivers large items in two to three days.
To coincide with the launch, Comet will run an ad campaign in the press and on TV.
Comet services director Toby Lousada said: “When coupled with four-hour delivery slots and next-day installation, this service offers an unprecedented level of convenience.
“Our customers are often keen to have their products up and running as soon as possible. We can meet this need with next-day delivery and installation at no extra cost.”
Retail Knowledge Bank senior partner Robert Clark said: “Customers want instant gratification – if they have bought it, they want it quickly. I think all aspects of service are increasingly important and they become more so over time.”
Separately, Comet has reshuffled its commercial team. Head of direct channels Simon Rigby is to become head of supply chain and web site general manager Ryan Thomas has been promoted to take over his role.
Kesa was scheduled to issue preliminary results as Retail Week went to press.
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