Atlanta, GA, December 28--Home Depot said it is expanding its store based home appliance business through a new online initiative that allows consumers to purchase more than 1,800 products from the company’s recently enhanced website.
In September 2001, The Home Depot began to roll out new appliance showrooms in its stores. Since that time, the company has steadily increased its share of the market and today ranks third in sales. In the third quarter of 2004, the company reported that its core market share of appliances increased 40 percent over the same period a year ago.
The website features enhanced search tools so customers can quickly and easily refine their search for appliances with the product attributes and features that are most important to them. Detailed product information and a new product comparison tool help customers narrow their choices and identify key product differences. Like all products on homedepot.com, appliances can be saved into an online wish list.
When customers place orders online, an associate will telephone them to arrange delivery, as well as to confirm availability, required parts, installation charges, optional extended service plan coverage and local sales tax. If a customer chooses to return or cancel an appliance order, he or she can contact Home Depot through a toll-free number that will be provided, and a customer service representative will be assigned.
Appliances sold online are the same national price as those in Home Depot stores. Prices will not vary by region, and customers will be charged the same amount as if they bought the products in a store. Online appliance sales are offered in the 48 contiguous states (which excludes Alaska and Hawaii).
