Schoolwear retailer Rohit Kumar Vij of Abbey Street Shopping Centre (Tru Schoolwear of Accrington) reflects on this year’s Back to School.
Laura Turner: How has this year’s Back to School been for you?
Rohit Kumar Vij: This year has been absolutely superb. We were uncertain during lockdown as to whether to cancel our forward orders. We weren’t sure if children would be going back to school or not. However, I went with my gut instinct and we carried on as normal; calling in our forward orders early and making customer appointments from April, as many wanted to buy early for September.
LT: Did Covid-19 impact sales in any way?
RKV: We chose to put offers on many uniforms to help customers financially. We also gave a 5% discount to all NHS staff, who have been fantastic throughout the pandemic.
We had a great season last year and this year has been incredible. Our suppliers have also been fantastic. So, on that note, yes, we had the best season. We are still busy now, even busier having our Manchester store; we took on three schools during August due to their supplier letting them down. Our strength in schoolwear investment is strong.
LT: Have customers altered their buying habits this year?
RKV: We’ve noticed customers are buying more. A few of our schools have not allowed blazers so parents are having to buy two jumpers instead, but that is the only difference. We’ve sold a lot more book bags this year than previously, and sports kit.
LT: Did you sell online during the pandemic?
RKV: We do not sell online except for Manchester schools under the name Tru Uniforms. I’m glad we don’t sell online; we’ve heard a lot of feedback regarding customers not getting their orders or receiving the wrong size. We’ve operated this year exactly as we have in the past. We’ve had very, very long queues, so we gave customers a 10-minute window in-store with experienced staff to help them buy quickly. The reviews we’ve been getting are great.
LT: How do you feel about trade going forward?
RKV: Going forward will be no different, I have already started getting ready for 2021. We have new plans in mind for the future, both in terms of properties and schoolwear.
