News from One iota

Republic propels Facebook strategy with One iota

Leading high street and online fashion retailer Republic, has appointed One iota to manage a Facebook store on its 'Fan' page. It is also expanding its Facebook Deals service – which was recently short-listed for the Social Buzz Awards – to the remainder of its leading stores.

Natalie Williamson, head of social media at Republic, said: "The new store is the perfect way to reach young, fashionable, internet-savvy consumers who enjoy spending time on Facebook and sharing content with friends."

She continued: "We’ve seen a significant increase in product-based engagement via Facebook. By simply utilising our existing Channel Advisor product feeds, we’ve been able to leverage One iota’s store solution and promotional wall management tools, to post product offers and information to our ‘Fans’."

Initially, the Facebook store will be non-transactional, allowing users to browse and select products within the site. At the point of purchase customers will be redirected to Republic’s website to complete the transaction.

Damian Hanson, CEO at One iota, said: "The Facebook store is a simple step into the world of F-commerce and it will enable Republic to entice shoppers and fans with fantastic offers and products. Using existing product feeds, the solution was quick to launch and has already started to deliver great results."

The Facebook store launch comes just six months after One iota helped Republic to implement a Facebook Deals service at four of its flag ship stores. The promotion tapped into the growing number of consumers who are actively using their phones to find the best deals on the high street.

The retailer has now confirmed it will be rolling out the Facebook Deals service nationally across its leading stores. This solution has been recognised for innovation nationally having recently been short-listed as a finalist for ‘Best Use of Check-in/Location’ in the Social Buzz Awards. The winners will be announced at an awards ceremony which takes place at Wembley on 1 December.