Card Factory online sales soar over 250% amid UK lockdown

Cards and gifts retailer Card Factory has reported a 267.5% increase in online sales since the UK lock-down began in March.

During the period the retailer said it recorded “significant growth” in visitors, conversion and sales. In response to this increased demand, and to support social distancing, the company has now established a second fulfilment unit in Wakefield.

Card Factory’s stores remain closed “as per government guidance”, with all of its store colleagues having been furloughed under the Government’s Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme.

However, in preparation for re-opening, the retailer is currently working on changes to its store operations that will help “ensure” colleagues and customer safety. Card Factory said it expects to be able to facilitate appropriate social distancing in the majority of our stores.

The retailer said cash management has been a “key area of focus during these uncertain times”, as it looks to protect the longer-term prospects of the business and its stakeholders. Measures it is currently utilising include relevant government schemes where applicable, managing stock intake and supplier terms and controlling the cost.

Card Factory said in a statement: “To support our most vulnerable colleagues during the Covid-19 pandemic, the Card Factory Foundation has established a relief fund for our colleagues who are experiencing financial hardship during this time and we continue to provide a number of support services to all of our colleagues.”