HIGH speed car ferry operator Hoverspeed has announced major plans to expand its retail cross-Channel business focusing on the main Hoverport store in Calais.

Hoverspeed has taken full control of the Calais store adding around £20 million to the company's buying strength.

With work to transform the Calais Hoverport store scheduled for completion soon, plans include increasing the size and product range.

The expansion will also feature a strong promotional presence from many of the world's leading named perfume houses.

This is a significant move forward in the company's plans to develop a one-stop-shop service for passengers travelling via the main Dover-Calais route.

Shore-based shopping, pre-order and bulk-buying initiatives pioneered by Hoverspeed and the Calais Hoverport store will provide a new style of cross-Channel shopping.

"As well as introducing products which up until now you could only buy from hypermarkets, a hassle-free shopping service will be on offer," said Geoffrey Ede, Hoverspeed's managing director.

New initiatives will include a pre-order service available on board the craft, with goods being ready for delivery to passengers at the Calais store.

In 2002, Hoverspeed will be increasing its peak season sailing frequency on the Dover-Calais route to 14 return sailings a day.