Media Markt, the German chain of stores selling consumer electronics with numerous branches throughout Europe and Asia, is now offering online shopping services in addition to its seven physical stores in Shanghai, although it stresses it will continue to focus on the physical stores.

To cater to the increasing demand for online shopping, the retailer launched its online shopping business in Shanghai on Oct 12. Consumers can browse its website and purchase from all categories of products available in any Media Markt store in Shanghai.

According to Frank Bussalb, CEO of Media Markt China, these services include product reservation, pick up, home delivery, extended warranty and online photo printing.

"We are now completing our business model by combining the customer experience in our stores with our online functionalities. We implemented our multi-channel strategy to supplement our existing stationary stores already set up in Shanghai and find more ways to serve local customers," he said.

According to Bussalb, the retailer is initially offering about 40 percent of its products to online shoppers.

China Daily-Agencies