THE country's largest independent video game retailer, CHIPS, has contracted a Cheshire firm to help establish itself online.

CHIPS chose the Northwich-based Hut Group to expand its online product portfolio and improve customer service.

Hut will manage the chipsworld.co.uk site and expand its product range to include books, CDs and electronic goods.

CHIPS MD Nik Agar said: "We previously managed all aspects of the website in house, but with 31 stores, both company owned and franchise, we felt that customer service could be improved.

"The Hut Group is a specialist in the e-tail and ecommerce field and by working with them, we can not only expand the products offered but will have a dedicated resource for the site, giving customers an all-round improved experience."

The Hut Group offers e-commerce solutions to retailers wanting to trade online.

It was established in 2004 and now has an annual turnover of £27m with 71 members of staff.