Shoppers in Taunton began to benefit from a choice of thousands of extra products as a leading retailer launched a major expansion scheme back in 2003.
The Argos store on East Street was chosen as one of just five outlets across the country to be re-branded as Argos Extra.
Their new catalogue boasted an extra 4,700 products, with many lines featuring hundreds of extra products.
The firm also expanded into whole new areas, including camping and well-being.
Argos officials were at Taunton’s Castle Hotel the week before the launch to promote the new range.
Tony Harper, head of marketing for Argos Extra, told the County Gazette at the time: “At 1,568 pages, it’s the biggest catalogue we’ve ever produced, and there’s much more to choose from.
“Over the last few years, some retail barriers have been broken down, and customers are now willing to buy products from non-traditional retailers.”
He added that customers enjoyed the Argos way of shopping and said the expansion was being introduced after research into demand.
The Taunton store underwent a £100,000 facelift prior to the rebrand and now features quick pay kiosks to save time.
The store also took on eight extra staff.
The outlet was chosen on the back of its good customer base, its plentiful storage space, and strong management team.
Store manager Mark Weston, who had worked for Argos in Taunton for 14 years at that point, said: “We like a good challenge and I know we will succeed.
“We’re responding to demand and we hope this, and other improvements, will bring more people to the town.”
Lines which were expanded include lighting, rugs, kitchenware, and bathroom, while there were new ranges in clothing and arts and crafts.
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