News

JCPenney spruces up product offerings with big appliances, new services

May 12, 2016

JCPenney is deploying an appliance showroom in nearly 500 stores and its online storefront following a three-market pilot indicating strong consumer demand for such products.

The retailer is also boosting window coverings and is testing additional products and services related to furniture, carpet and flooring, according to a company announcement.

The appliance and related new services push is being driven by a boost in home investments.

"We are taking steps to grow our business by introducing new brands, products and categories where our customers have shown us that there is a clear demand. Since launching major appliances in 22 stores last February, the response has been outstanding. The pilot confirmed we should not limit our business to apparel and soft home in order to achieve significant revenue growth," said Marvin R. Ellison, CEO, in the announcement.

The appliance showrooms will start to debut in early July, with appliances being introduced each week.

JCPenney is also planning to test new initiatives with Ashley Furniture and Empire Today.

"The current housing market presents a lucrative opportunity to diversify our mome assortment and strategically align with consumer spending patterns. By combining our soft home and window coverings merchandise with the industry's leading brands for appliances, furniture and flooring, JCPenney will become a destination for home design and redecorating, allowing us to weather-proof our business during seasonal periods of the year," stated Ellison.