JSE-listed retail giant Mr Price says its online sales in SA grew by 195.3%, to R44.7 million, in the six months to 27 September.
The retailer reports that online sales to customers outside of SA, in countries such as Nigeria and Ghana, also saw significant growth, with total international online sales surging by 142.3%, "albeit off a low base".
Mr Price moved into e-commerce in July 2012, with an online shop, giving customers the option of viewing and purchasing the entire range of Mr Price fashion apparel from one central location.
At the time, the company stated its online foray was prompted by an increasing uptake of online shopping - driven by increased broadband distribution, the mobile Internet and mushrooming smartphone penetration.
"Two years ago, we launched our online offer under the branding MRP.com, and in August this year, Mr Price Apparel opened a new generation MRP store at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town. This new format is a big step forward in our strategy of integrating our store and online channels to ensure customers receive a seamless experience," says CEO Stuart Bird.
"Importantly, this is not a 'one-up' concept - we're offering the same merchandise at the same prices as our other stores."
In July, the group also launched MRP Mobile, a 55%-held subsidiary, offering cellular products to customers. As a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO), the retailer says, no investment in network infrastructure was required.
The service is only available to the company's credit customer base, which numbered about 1.4 million active customers when the group unveiled its MVNO offering. However, the group did not reveal subscriber figures.
"After accounting for airtime sales, which attract a lower gross profit margin percentage, and MRP Mobile, which is impacted by recognising customer acquisition costs upfront relative to the subscription period, the group gross profit margin was unchanged at 41.4%," says the group.
"Selling and administration expenses grew by 11% and comprised 28.2% of retail sales and other income, an improvement on last year's 29.2%. These costs were impacted by inflation, space growth, and the investment in people and systems in key areas such as fashion trending, online and MRP Mobile."
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