The shift to e-Commerce necessitated by the COVID-19 pandemic is causing some retailers to get creative, leading to partnerships such as the new omnichannel offering from DSW and Hy-Vee. The unlikely pair will launch an initially online-only experience that they will evolve to include a BOPIS component and a store-within-a-store concept over time.
The initial rollout will let shoppers access DSW’s digital experience on Hy-Vee.com, where they can browse and purchase shoe styles. This extra sales channel will be valuable for DSW, which has closed its stores and furloughed 80% of its employees for the duration of the pandemic.
During the leadup to the eventual store-within-a-store concept, DSW will launch a pilot of top-selling footwear displayed in a pallet format at more than 120 Hy-Vee locations. The companies plan to use their partnership to expand shoppers’ options across all lifestyle categories, from grocery to footwear.
“We are excited to be growing in new categories and delivering DSW’s mission of inspiring self-expression to Hy-Vee customers,” said Designer Brands’ Chief Executive Officer Roger Rawlins in a statement. “Our commercial team has positioned itself as the plug-and-play solution to grow in the footwear category.”
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