Furniture and appliance retailer, Smiths City, has launched  its new look format with its latest store opening at Hawkes Bay.

The new 2230sqm store opened late last week and features a new look interior. The development, in the heart of Hastings’ home-store precinct, is part of the company’s national expansion plan and the new design will be progressively rolled out nationwide over coming years.

Roy Campbell, chief executive of Smiths City Group, said that next year Smiths City will celebrate its 100th anniversary and that integral to the retailer’s longevity is its ability to evolve and reflect changing market needs.

“As a retailer you always have to be in touch with your customers, understanding what they want and making sure you meet their requirements, it’s an ever changing market,” he said.

“Our new concept will clearly signal to the market and our customers the value and service they can expect from Smiths City and demonstrates our point of difference when compared to others.

“This new store design is a direct response to customer research conducted last year.

“Customers who shop large ticket furniture and appliances want an enjoyable shopping experience that’s both inspiring and easy.”

Smiths City’s new interior design is by award winning firm Studio Gascoigne, with the company’s principal,  Mark Gascoigne, asserting that the new look is all about customer ease while being fashionable.

“Navigating large furniture and appliance stores can be like walking through a maze – we have ensured that the new Smiths City is simple yet visually distinctive,” he said.

“We have tried to create a ‘neighborhood’ feel between the different departments, linked by main walkways which clearly branch off.

“There are elements that echo Canterbury architecture – the rooflines are an ode to the landscape and the region’s colours are discreetly threaded through the design. These are all a reflection of the roots of Christchurch, where the retailer was established.”

The new Hastings store is located in the city’s former Mitre 10 Mega building on St Aubyn Street East.