Klarna, the fintech company adorned by fashion brands for its ‘try now, pay later’ and ‘installment payments’ technology solution is on the hunt for the next big player in retail. The Swedish brand has launched Smooothest Stores competition to help up-and-coming retailers in the UK put themselves on the map.
Open for entry until the end of December 2018, the contest will give retailers a chance to win a tailored combination of guidance, finance, and Klarna’s in-demand Pay later payment product. Brands applying must be no more than 2 years old, have a turnover upwards of £100,000 and have an online eCommerce store where shoppers can purchase items, specialising in fashion, jewellery or lifestyle products.
“We know how difficult it is to grow a business in a fast-changing and competitive environment – particularly in the world of e-commerce and retail. We’ve been lucky enough to work with, support and learn from some really impressive brands, from fashion stalwarts to up-and-coming businesses. We want to use this experience to inspire small businesses at the start of their journey to reach their full potential,” Luke Griffiths, General Manager at Klarna UK, said in an official statement. “The start-up culture is truly energising - and coming from start-up roots ourself - we can’t wait to meet and hear what businesses from all over the UK are doing so we can help them to excel in the retail space. The search for the UK’s smooothest stores, is on.”
Entrants will be judged by a panel headed headed up by power couple Hugo Taylor and Millie Mackintosh, who will go head-to-head in the quest to find the nation’s next revolutionary retailer. Both have experience in running retail start-ups and the world of fashion with Hugo’s ‘Taylor Morris Eyewear’ now stocked in Harvey Nichols and Bloomingdales.
“Beautiful design is one of life’s greatest pleasures. Hugo and I are constantly on the lookout for unique fashion and design brands that inspire us, so partnering with Klarna to discover the next big industry name is truly exciting,” Mackintosh commented. “The UK is home to some of the world’s most creative talent, so we can’t wait to check out the entries and see what Britain’s innovative entrepreneurs have to offer.”
After the application deadline, eight brands will be shortlisted to meet with one of Klarna’s brand ambassadors and create a short video about their business. The content series will launch in February 2019, after which the public will be able to vote for the brand they want to see crowned ‘The UK’s Smooothest Store’. The winner will be announced in April 2019.
For more info and how to apply head to Klarna’s Smoooth Stores page.
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