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'The Official Great British Factory Shop Guide' covers both independent Factory Shops and the 30 or so Outlet villages in Great Britain.  Here we distinguish between the two and tell you how to make the most out of Factory Shopping.

 

What is a Factory Shop?

Factory Shops are not a new concept but rather the effective marketing and public awareness of an old idea.  They started as a way of disposing stock that the factory, for whatever reason, could not sell to retailers.  This stock was sold off at greatly reduced prices to members of staff; over time family members were invited to take part and eventually as word got around the local community, who naturally wanted to take advantage of the bargains, Factory Shops started opening to the public. 

The term 'Factory Shop' now covers several types of store; there are some that just sell their own factory-produced goods, others will add to their range by buying in other items, some shops sell off ex-catalogue items and there are some manufacturers who sell perfect products direct to the public at reduced prices because there is no 'middle man'. 

For almost any item you can think of there is a Factory Shop out there - so whether you are looking for a new outfit or a new kitchen 'The

Official Great British Factory Shop Guide' can help you buy it at greatly reduced prices. 

Find a Factory Shop near you!

. . And an Outlet Village?

 

Some Hints & Tips for Successful Factory Shopping

* Before making a long trip it is best to ring the Factory Shop, especially independent ones, as opening times may vary and stock levels fluctuate.
* If you like it - buy it! Stock changes in Factory Shops are rapid so it is useful to have all your family's and home's measurements to hand - 'The Official Great British Factory Shop Guide' has handy charts to help keep track.
* When shopping in Factory Shops all your statutory rights are in place however you cannot return a 'second' if it says what is wrong with it.
* Many of the individual Factory Shops are in out-of-the-way, hard to find places e.g. industrial estates. It is best to ring first to get directions or use an Internet map. 'The Official Great British Factory Shop Guide' lists full postcodes for all Factory Shops so maps can be obtained.

* Factory Shops are an excellent way to boost your basic wardrobe. Goods buys are quality names that use quality fabrics and a high number of stitches per inch.
* Be prepared to rummage!
* Don't always believe what the size tag tells you - they may be seconds because they are incorrectly marked up. Try before you buy - it is unlikely you'll be able to swap it at a later date.
* Carry cash or a cheque book, some of the independent Factory Shops do not accept credit/debit cards.
* Some shops sell manufacturers samples - bear in mind 'last seasons' samples are actually those clothes about to hit the shops so you may find yourself being a trend setter!