N Brown launches programme for start-ups

Manchester-based retailer N Brown has started an innovation programme to help start-ups shake up the fashion retail business.

The scheme, titled JDWorks, aims to find new technology solutions for the multichannel retailer, whose brands include JD Williams, Simply Be and Jacamo.

Developed in partnership with innovation specialist L Marks, it will offer mentoring support, office space and access to investment to up to eight start-ups in the space of 10 weeks.

N Brown CEO Angela Spindler said: “This is an incredibly exciting partnership for us. We’re in the middle of the biggest business transformation in our 140 year history, moving from being a direct-mail led to a digital first retailer. Digital development is a massive focus for us and partnering with L Marks will allow us access to some of the most innovative ideas from start-ups, which by their nature, are very agile.”

Applicants to the JDWorks programme will be tasked to look at the following areas for potential development: product fit, ways to shop, customer experience, customer loyalty, supply chain and utilising new data.

Stuart Marks CEO and Founder of L Marks said: “JDWorks is particularly interesting for us due to the age demographic of N Brown’s customer base. Start-up products and services tend to be focused on the younger, tech savvy generation. N Brown’s customer base spans from 25 year olds to 90 year olds and applicants will need to take this into consideration, so it will be interesting to see the ideas that are developed.”

As the retail landscape continues to evolve, an increasing number of UK retailers are launching programmes to stay ahead of the curve. Other companies that have launched similar schemes include Asos’ acceleration programme with Wayra and Topshop’ start-up programme focused on wereable tech.

N Brown launches programme for start-ups

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