Sainsbury’s grows formal menswear range
Sainsbury’s is expanding its Tu men’s formalwear range as it looks to increase its market share in the menswear category.
As the sixth largest retailer of clothing by volume, the supermarket said clothing for men presents a strong growth opportunity.
In the six months to 25 September, Sainsbury’s menswear sales rose by 13%. In addition, sales of Tu formalwear increased by 40% in the year to September as the retailer added 17 new lines to grow the range by 33%.
The supermarket said wool-rich suits and blazers have been the stand out categories, with 75% sales growth in the last six months.
Last week, the supermarket launched two Harris Tweed men’s jackets in around 10 stores across the UK. The supermarket has also launched other new premium lines such as 100% Merino wool jumpers from sportswear brand Admiral, lambswool-rich knitwear and tailored suits.
Sainsbury said some 54% of Tu menswear is now bought by men for themselves, which is an increase of 23% over two years.
Sainsbury’s Argos commercial director James Brown said: “The menswear clothing market is an exciting area of growth. Men are increasingly shopping for themselves and we’re focused on making it easier and more convenient for them.
“Shopping for clothing in supermarkets has become firmly established and our strategy of offering customers high street style at supermarket prices in an attractive, department store-style setting has helped us to increase our market share.”
