Car parts and cycles retailer Halfords is revving up plans to fit stores with 'super-mezzanines' ahead of an expected planning clampdown later this year.
The newly floated retailer intends to create 35 of the 3,800 sq ft (355 sq m) super-mezzanines in the year ahead. The expansion will involve extending existing 2,200 sq ft (205 sq m) mezzanines as well as building new ones.
The L-shaped super-mezzanines will enable Halfords to display its merchandise better, including new categories such as camping equipment, as well as products for children, including pushchairs and pedal cars.
Broker Arbuthnot said the strategy has the potential to boost trading space by 20 per cent. 'The importance of the mezzanine programme to Halfords' strategy cannot be underestimated, given its status as a key growth driver,' the broker noted.
'A recent court case involving Asda is believed to have added urgency to the issue, and there may be as little as six months left before the planning loophole is closed.'
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