Magazine distributor expands offer to independent retailers.

 

Are Direct, formerly Gordon & Gotch/Ovato Retail Distribution, has unveiled a major refresh of its wholesale buying platform TheMarketHub.

 

The company said its aim is to be the preferred commerce platform connecting brands, suppliers and independent retailers across Australia. 

 

“The upgraded platform makes it easier to discover products, place orders and access distribution services through a single, streamlined experience,” the company said.

 

TheMarketHub gives retailers access to more than 5000 products across more than 120 categories and 200 brands.

 

Categories include stationery, trading cards, toys, games, gifts and general merchandise. 

 

There are no subscription fees nor minimum order value.

 

Launching ahead of the year’s busiest shopping period, the refreshed TheMarketHub was built on Shopify’s B2B platform in partnership with digital commerce specialists Convert Digital. 

 

“Independent retailers need the freedom to make buying decisions that work for their stores,” Alex Smith, general manager of Are Direct, said.

 

“With the new TheMarketHub platform, retailers can explore products from hundreds of brands in one place and order what they need, when they need it. We’ve made the buying experience simpler while giving retailers the choice and flexibility that matter when you’re running an independent business, especially in the lead up to the busy Christmas retail period.”

 

The launch is part of Are Media’s broader investment in TheMarketHub’s digital and operational capabilities. 

 

“We’ve invested in how retailers buy and how we fulfil their orders,” Smith said. “TheMarketHub is now better equipped to support independent retailers as we pursue our growth agenda over the next 12 months, including expanding our range and increasing the number of exclusive products available to customers.”

 

Are Direct is a core business within Are Media, Australia’s leading multi-channel publisher with major brands such as Woman’s Day, New Idea, Australian Women’s Weekly and Better Homes and Gardens. Are Media is owned by Mercury Capital.