By Martin Vedris
SHEPARTON: Despite growing fears of an economic slowdown, the news seems to be no concern to WOW Sight and Sound, which says it can handle the tough times and has plans to open up 50 more stores.
“Economic situations change with time, and WOW is equipped to handle these conditions,” WOW director of Retail Con Nicholas told Current.com.au.
The expansions plans of WOW have moved a little slower than the independent buying group anticipated however.
When WOW opened its 12th superstore in the NSW border town of Albury last year, the company said that it had planned to open up to 11 more stores in 2008. The company said hold ups in development approval slowed its growth.
“Due to various building developments taking longer for approvals, the rollout was delayed,” said Nicholas.
WOW is continuing on undeterred, with further NSW locations, in addition to Coffs Harbour and Albury, likely.
“Rollout of stores will be determined by the various development and building approval timelines,” said Nicholas.
“There is a rollout plan to open up to 50 stores within the next four years.”
Part of WOW’s success could be attributed to its high-profile brand building sponsorship program. The retailer sponsors the Brisbane Broncos rugby league team, Cairns Taipans basketball team, Queensland Roar A league soccer team, the V8 Supercars, Australia Zoo and in a show of local community support and brand building in its latest location, opening today, WOW is also sponsoring the Shepparton United Football Club.