Maplin set to unveil first B2B-focused operation

Consumer electronics retailer ready to target trade and small business from next week

Maplin Electronics is launching a specialist trade and business store on 6 October in Sheffield.

According to retail press reports, the move is a pilot of B2B for the consumer-oriented retailer and will focus on sole traders and small businesses across a wide range of industries.

"The 3,000 sq ft store will specialise in CCTV, security and home automation, and offer leasing of products as well as purchasing. Free same-day delivery will be available for Sheffield-based orders over £150, and Maplin's own in-store experts will also be on hand with free advice for traders, including a professional CCTV installer who will be available to discuss businesses requirements and offer technical advice," according to Retail Times.

The opening will be 6 October at 9am, with 10 per cent off all purchases on the day, reports said. Eight new jobs have been created so far, with a B2B team being developed to focus on Maplin's emerging B2B strategy as a whole.

Maplin is majority-owned by investors Rutland Partners and has more than 200 stores around the UK.