Strategic delivery

Strengthening authority in key categories

One of the key focus areas under the Getting Into Gear strategy has been to build and maintain leading positions in our core sectors of Auto and Cycling. We have taken a number of steps forward in the year including the launch of Car Parts Direct; the introduction of new products within Technology and Car Enhancement, including Go Pro and dash cams; the launch of our own new premium bikes brand, 13; the acquisition of Boardman Bikes and the launch of Cycle Republic.

We have provided more detail below on two of the initiatives:

Car parts direct

Launched in the first half of the year, Car Parts Direct provides our customers with access to over 130,000 car parts that can be ordered in-store or online with next working day delivery or better – the majority of in-store orders are delivered within 90 minutes. The breadth and depth of parts available means that Car Parts Direct can be used by garage trade customers as well as capable DIY repairers, hobby mechanics and fans of specific vehicle marques.

Acquisition of boardman bikes

In June 2014 Halfords acquired the Boardman Bikes business for £14 million. Boardman bikes have been ridden by multiple Olympic and world champions and the brand is one of the fastest-growing and most successful in UK cycling. Our investment in the business demonstrates our growing position as a specialist cycling retailer. Since acquisition, we have worked together to launch a range of Boardman clothing and look forward to developing the bike and accessories ranges further.