Superdrug’s parent company AS Watson has launched a long-term partnership programme for a range of technology suppliers to supercharge its digital transformation.

The health and beauty giant, which owns UK retailers Superdrug, The Perfume Shop and Savers, has divided its technology partnership programme into six divisions including data science and AI, ecommerce and digital and data visualisation.

The programme has been launched to foster more long-term relationships with the group’s new and existing technology suppliers, which include Microsoft, Rubikloud, Ovolab and Infosys.

AS Watson’s group chief operating officer Malina Ngai said: “The partnership programme is designed to transform the short-term contractual relationship to a longer-term strategic relationship to create a win-win for both parties.

“Our tech partners will have access to senior management, visibility on our growth strategy and technology roadmap, as well as a longer-term financial commitment from us. We can benefit from their commitment in providing consistent resources, expert advice and services, as well as first-hand access to innovation they develop.

“The appointment of our first batch of worldwide tech partners shows our determination to accelerate our digital transformation. We recognize that our customers are changing rapidly and technology has become an ever more critical ingredient to deliver our purpose.”

The retail group kicked off its digital transformation programme in 2011 and set up its first e-Labs in 2015.