Go Outdoors appoints first multi-channel director
Go Outdoors, the camping products and outdoor clothing retailer, has appointed Jon Asbury as its first multi-channel director.
Asbury joins Go Outdoors from Halfords where he led the retailer’s multi-channel business for 14 years, and launched the UK’s first non-clothing retailer mobile site. Prior to this, he worked with WH Smith Do It All and Woolworths.
At Go Outdoors, Asbury will be responsible for the delivery of the retailer’s multi-channel strategy.
Commenting on the appointment Go Outdoors chief operating officer Lee Bagnall said: “This appointment represents a significant message of intent to the outdoor retail sector. We expect to expand and lead online outdoor sales both in the UK and internationally.
Never Miss a Retail Update!“To achieve this we needed an experienced director to bring additional retail insight and a proven track record of achievement in online sales. With those criteria in mind, Jon Asbury was a standout candidate in every respect.”
Asbury added: “Go Outdoors is an exciting young company with a real passion and enthusiasm for all things outdoors. They have already made a significant impact in online sales. I hope I can bring additional online experience to complement the undeniable energy and drive already present in the boardroom.
“Joining a dynamic company growing at such a massive rate offered me a compelling professional proposition. It’s a challenge I can’t wait to get my teeth into.”
Go Outdoors has increased its sales by 54% a year, from £31.6 million in 2008 to £115.2 million in 2011. The retailer said its online sales currently account for around 10% of total sales and is predicting that total online sales will double annually.
