Ann Summers is to launch a new online underwear marketplace this month.

The lingerie retailer, which has stores in Cheltenham and Gloucester, said the platform will launch with 15 brands, including Calvin Klein and Curvy Kate. It will be the only site selling just underwear in the UK, as reported by Retail Gazette.

The new site, Knickerbox.com, which will not sell adult toys, will go live on the late Ann Summers founder Jacqueline Gold CBE's birthday on July 16.

Ann Summers said the platform was a solution to the challenge of its online business being restricted by Safe Search, reducing the visibility of the site due to its range of adult toys.

It said the new platform will be the ultimate 'House of Underwear' with carefully selected brands which align with Ann Summers' own ethos and values - ethical, inclusive, fun and female founded.

The retailer's new brand KBX, a range of underwear, loungewear and nightwear, will also be available to purchase on the platform.