Retail giant seeks new outlet for sales growth

FORT MYERS — In another sign of retail's shift from brick-and-mortar to e-commerce, Fort Myers-based Chico's FAS has launched a new website, chicosofftherack.com.

The site, according to a statement, gives customers online access “to the same exclusive styles available at Chico's Outlet locations.” The website, the company adds in the statement, will also help woo potential new customers who don't have a brick-and-mortar Chico's Outlet near their area.

“Our customers tell us all the time that they would love a way to have that wonderful experience of finding something really special, as they do at Chico's Outlets, whenever they'd like,” says Lori Shaffer, senior vice president, outlets & corporate store operations, in the release. “Today, customers expect access to information, instant gratification and to shop when they want and how they want. We want to give them exactly what they are asking for: our unique, fun, style.”

Chico's currently operates more than 600 boutiques and over 100 outlets across the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico. Chico's FAS had $2.47 billion in revenue in 2016.