February 1, 2002 High speed car ferry operator Hoverspeed has announced major plans to expand its retail cross channel business focusing on the main Hoverport store in Calais. Hoverspeed has now taken full control of the Calais store adding around £20 million to the company's buying strength. With work to transform the Calais Hoverport store scheduled for completion by early 2002, plans include increasing the size and product range. The expansion will also feature a strong promotional presence from many of the world's leading named perfume houses. This major new asset for Hoverspeed is a significant move forward in its plans to develop a one-stop-shop service for passengers travelling via the main Dover - Calais route. Shore based shopping, pre-order and bulk buying are initiatives pioneered by Hoverspeed and the Calais Hoverport store will provide a new and exclusive style of cross channel shopping. "As the only cross channel operator with its own shore based shops, our plans for the Calais store will offer passengers a unique Continental shopping experience," says Geoffrey Ede, Hoverspeed's Managing Director. "As well as introducing products which up until now you could only buy from hypermarkets, a hassle free shopping service will be on offer." New initiatives will include a Pre-Order service available on board the craft, with goods being ready for delivery to passengers at the Calais store. Hoverspeed already provides pre-order online shopping before you travel, pre-order from the Dover terminal and Select & Collect where foot passengers can buy in bulk wines, beers and spirits and collect on arrival back into the UK. In 2002 Hoverspeed will be increasing its peak season sailing frequency on the Dover - Calais route to 14 return sailings daily, with services from Dover operating every hour on the hour from 0600.Press Release Media contact: Nick Stevens, Public Relations Manager Telephone: (01304) 865170 |