Huge changes could be coming to Officeworks after the COVID-19 pandemic presented an unusual business opportunity
- Chain could dedicate the operation to creating industrial signage for companies
- Hairdressers and butchers have flocked to Officeworks to get signs made
- Signs are to inform customers of social distancing restrictions during lockdown
- Here’s how to help people impacted by Covid-19
The coronavirus pandemic has created a unique opportunity for Officeworks which is now considering transforming its business model as a result.
Businesses such as hairdressers and butchers are flocking to the popular store to get signs created to inform customers of social distancing restrictions.
Signage has created such a boom in businesses that Officeworks is now considering revamping its business model.
The chain could transform their print and scan business and dedicate the operation to creating industrial signage for businesses.
Officeworks could transform their print and scan business and dedicate the operation to creating industrial signage for businesses (stock)
Officeworks’ chief finance officer Michael Howard told news.com.au that while photocopying needs have declined over the years people are utilising the printing section for different needs.
‘It’s like most things; retail today is not the same as it was yesterday but there is absolutely still a role for the stores that we’ve got as well as online,’ Mr Howard said.
He said it has prompted the business to consider changing their printing offer.
‘Are we doing everything that we could be to participate in that market? There’s definitely a role for us to play in terms of our online print and copy proposition,’ Mr Howard said.
Mr Howard also said the shift to working from home has prompted Australians to redesign their home offices.
Items such as headsets, desks, office chairs, webcams and art supplies have been flying off the shelves.
Signage, school supplies and digit tally counters all became sought after items in Officeworks stores across Australia (stock)
A study of 1,000 people by Officworks showed a quarter of people didn’t have a desk and 67 per cent didn’t have a suitable desk chair.
‘As we look forward, with a potential shift to more professionals working from home in the future, we encourage everyone to remember to look at the ergonomic set-up of their workspace at home,’ Mr Howard said.
Social distancing measures – such as a maximum capacity in stores – has meant items such as digit tally counters began to sell out.
Mr Howard said this shows how government mandates trickle down into society.