Kathmandu expands online offering

Outdoor apparel and clothing retailer Kathmandu has expanded its online offering and is now shipping product to more than 40 countries.

Chief executive Peter Halkett said the new initiative was part of the retailer's online development plans, as well as a response to consumer demand.

Prior to the expansion, Kathmandu products bought online could only be delivered to customers in Australasia and Europe - the regions where Kathmandu operates physical stores.

"Overseas outdoor adventure enthusiasts who know our brand now have the ability to buy their gear online and international visitors who liked what they purchased while visiting Australia and New Zealand can buy once they return home," Halkett said. "Existing customers who already shop in our stores and online can send Kathmandu clothing and equipment to their friends and family overseas."

Customers can now view the prices of Kathmandu products in currencies including the Canadian, Singapore and Hong Kong dollars, as well as the Chinese yuan, Japanese yen and Indian rupee.

The countries where products can now be delivered include the United States, Canada, Japan, South Korea, Nepal, Bangladesh, Taiwan and Pakistan.

International shipping customers in these countries must pay a A$45 delivery charge, according to the Kathmandu website.

Across Europe the delivery charges range from 10 to 15 pounds.

"We already have an international Summit Club database with over 13,000 active members outside of our traditional markets of Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom," Halkett said. "The expansion of our international delivery offer is one of a number of initiatives that we are rolling out which will assist in growing our business."

The retailer said it would continue to add to the country list over the coming months.

Kathmandu shares, which have gained 38 per cent in the last 12 months, are trading at $3.45 this morning.