Boots seeks to fend off rivals with No 17 revamp

Boots is to fight mounting competition in the health and beauty market by increasing its focus on own-brand products, starting with a summer relaunch of its No 17 range.

No 17, which includes cosmetics and bodycare, will be overhauled in August to make it more contemporary. Changes are likely to include redesigned packaging and extensions to the range.

Boots chief executive Richard Baker said the development of own-label lines was central to the retailer's plans. His aim is for Boots to be seen as a health and beauty expert.

The initiative comes as Boots faces a growing challenge to this core part of its business. Last week Asda announced a £7m plan to revamp its health and beauty offering. In addition, Superdrug said it intended to spend £75m opening about 40 stores.

The overhaul of No 17 will be backed by in-store marketing and potentially an advertising campaign. It follows the revamp of Boots' premium No 7 range earlier this year, backed by a £5m campaign through Mother.

Boots also plans to continue its store redevelopment programme. Last month the chain launched a flagship outlet on London's Oxford Street, and it has further expansion ambitions.

Last week the retailer announced an 11% decline in annual profits, despite a 2.4% increase in sales. Baker has admitted there will be no immediate turnaround for the chain.

Market Reports

Get unprecedented new-business intelligence with access to ±±¾©Èü³µpk10’s new Advertising Intelligence Market Reports.

Find out more

Enjoying ±±¾©Èü³µpk10’s content?

 Get unlimited access to ±±¾©Èü³µpk10’s premium content for your whole company with a corporate licence.

Upgrade access

Looking for a new job?

Get the latest creative jobs in advertising, media, marketing and digital delivered directly to your inbox each day.

Create an alert now

Partner content