Tesco Launches Non-Foods Direct Division

Britain-based retailer Tesco launched Tesco Direct, a multichannel business dedicated to marketing 8,000 non-food items.

A new section scheduled to launch on the company's Web site Sept. 6 and a new catalog will support the venture. Tesco Direct will be available in stores starting Sept. 18.

In addition to being able to order online and by phone, customers will be able to place orders in selected stores via new Tesco Direct kiosks.

The merchandise selection will include beds, sofas, kitchenware, electronics, cameras, bikes and golf clubs.

Tesco will offer next-day delivery and the option of a two-hour time slot for home delivery of small items. Customers can also choose to pick up orders from selected stores the next day. Larger items, such as furniture, will be delivered within five to 10 days.

In support of the venture, Tesco has opened a Publishing Media Centre, which has a photographic and design studio, and built two fulfillment centers in Daventry and Crewe.

Tesco.com was launched in 1995 and today has 750,000 regular grocery shoppers and handles 200,000 orders per week.