Operational review
The Group’s ambition to deliver an
unparalleled shopping experience
was
advanced through renewed
focus on
basic retail principles and
nurturing
human capital.
Overview
Italtile’s overarching goal is to deliver an unsurpassed and unique shopping experience to our customers. Key strategies and initiatives are directed to achieving that ambition, and the Group’s commendable results for the review period are a reflection of intensified focus on two of those broad thrusts, namely:- consistent application of the basic principles of retailing; and
- emphasis on human capital development.
Retail principles: Back to basics
During the period scrutiny on range and stock management intensified. Across the Group the range was rationalised and improved to display greater flair. Investment in resources and global research served to ensure that the Group entrenched its leadership position as the trend-setter in the industry. Stores and displays were refreshed to ensure a pleasant, constantly interesting environment, and complete stylish ‘solutions’ were introduced to afford customers greater convenience in their purchasing decisions. Continued investment in technology and infrastructure and improved warehousing and logistics all served to create a smoother, quicker and more convenient store visit for customers. Notably, model stock levels were increased and managed better to ensure consistent availability of merchandise.
People: To power the business
There is no doubt that the people who work in a business can be the key differentiator between a good business and an exceptional one.
To achieve the Group’s robust targets and optimise on growth opportunities presented, it is inescapable that the people who work for Italtile need to be of an exceptional calibre.
Throughout the organisation this period witnessed an intensification of focus on the human capital in the Group. With a view to closing the gap between Italtile’s current performance and its targeted performance, training initiatives have been afforded priority status. In this regard, a range of mentorship, leadership and management programmes have been implemented, to widespread approval from employees. Key to all training is the recognition that the Group’s greatest challenge and opportunity is to attract, advance, empower and retain exceptional people. Clearly established career paths will assist in achieving this.