Business almost as usual for Made.com amid coronavirus outbreak
Online retailer Made.com remains open for business and active across its social media channels during the coronavirus pandemic.
“We're taking the current global situation around COVID-19 very seriously here, and I want to take this opportunity to let you know we're doing all we can to keep our staff and customers safe,” CEO Philippe Chainieux said in an email to customers.
Whilst the online store and social channels remain open, the pureplay’s showrooms and offices are temporarily closed. Deliveries are continuing as normal, with heightened measures to ensure the safety of customers, warehouse teams and couriers.
“We're monitoring the situation closely and will continue to follow official advice from the government, the WHO and the NHS. We'll keep in touch if things change, and we'll be posting regular updates here. Please stay safe and look after one another,” Chainieux concluded.
Made Labs
Last year, Made.com launched a London-based innovation venture, Made Labs.
This focuses on startups and emerging technologies to create an engaging shopping experience. It builds on collaborations with such ventures as Hullabalook, which created its Sofasizer, an online tool that helps customers find the perfect size of sofa for their space.
Shortly before that, the retailer announced the expansion of its flagship showroom in Soho, London. It also launched a new online interior design service, a collaboration with French startup hubstairs.
“Made’s entrepreneurial spirit is fundamental to our business strategy. As a digitally-native brand, being at the forefront of technological developments is a key priority,” said Jonathan Howell, Chief Technology Officer at Made.
“We want to provide technology that is always one step ahead of our customers’ expectations. We are lucky enough to be based in the centre of one of the world’s best tech startup communities. There are amazing things happening within those companies, and we want to stay true to our entrepreneurial roots and collaborate with these businesses to get their ideas in front of our customers.”
