Watford adopts CompUK identity

Watford Electronics is to change its name to CompUK at the end of the month to coincide with the relaunch of its refurbished flagship store and its move to become a nationwide retailer.

The firm wants to avoid confusion about its role now that it has moved away from straight electronics and is opening more stores across the country.

Shiraz Jessa, Watford sales and marketing director, insisted the name change was not connected with US superstore outfit CompUSA, as people outside the industry are not aware of the US company.

Jessa said the retailer was on course with its expansion of six retail outlets, but conceded the company was finding it difficult to find additional sites.

He claimed CompUK was considering sites near large retail complexes rather than on them because of a shortage of sites and extortionate rents.

Jessa said local planning officers were looking at proposals to expand the Luton factory and he expected work to start in November or early next year.