SurfStitch, Australia's biggest online surf shop, in after only 4 years of operations, has ventured into the European market with the launching of a dedicated headquarters in France, including an 8,000sqm purpose built distribution centre.

The move, according to SurfStitch founders Justin Cameron and Lex Pedersen, marks a transition into the next stage of growth and development for SurfStitch, especially after having identified the European expansion as a major focus.

"We've tried and tested this model in Australia, and have also been serving customers globally from the very beginning. With SurfStitch now also located in Europe, customers can expect an even stronger online retail experience - from a seamlessly designed and stunningly visual website, to SurfStitch's industry leading shopping and delivery experience," Mr Cameron, who is also SurfStitch's managing director, said in a statement.

The company's European base, located in Hossegor on the Atlantic coast of south-west France, is an area known for world famous surf breaks and a one-hour drive to the Pyrenees Mountains.

Recently named Australia's Number 1 Online Retailer by the Online Retail Industry Awards, 2012 and also ranked 4th in the 2011 Deloitte Technology Fast 50, SurfStitch has been selling up to at least 10,000 items per day via its online portal. Deloitte Technology Fast 50 is a report that lists Australia's fastest growing technology companies.

SurfStitch said the SurfStitch Europe will deliver the same leading customer service proposition that won it the Online Retailer of the Year for 2012 in Australia. During the opening of SurfStitch Europe, it offered 150 of the top surf, mountain and fashion brands, noting new styles and new brands will constantly be added to the site as the business continues towards its target of selling 500 brands in 2013.

To introduce the Web site, SurfStitch Europe is offering 40 euros off orders over 80 euros using the voucher code SURFSTITCH40. The offer is valid until October 31.