Divya Mathur

A&F is following Target’s lead and jumping into the wholesale market in Kids apparel. Will be interesting to see how this strategy evolves for both A&F and other retailers. https://lnkd.in/egPY3nre

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Nike ranks fourth on Depop and second on eBay with over 219,000 and 893,000 items, respectively. #Retail #TextileRetail #ApparelRetail #RetailNews #DailyNews #Nike #ApparelResources #ApparelIndustry #RetailIndustry #FashionBrand

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The new venture, called Authentic Luxury Group, will initially focus on Authentic Brands Group owned luxury and accessible luxury names including: Barneys New York, Judith Leiber Couture, Hervé Léger and Vince. Essentially, the new luxury group plans to serve as an incubator for brand growth through strategic licensing agreements and distribution channels across #fashion, #retail, #digital, #hospitality, #realestate, #art and #travel, according to the joint venture; all related to luxury lifestyle and activities. Perhaps, we are witnessing the emergence of a new luxury powerhouse from the United States, poised to join the ranks of the prestigious luxury conglomerates that dominate the fashion and lifestyle markets from France and Italy. While these European giants have long set the standard, this could signal a shift in the global landscape. Time will reveal if this American contender lead by Authentic Brands Group Jamie Salter & Saks Richard Baker can truly redefine the luxury industry on a global scale (in my personal opinion highly feasible).

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Come for the treasure hunt, stay for the shareholder returns. Last year, The TJX Companies, Inc., owner of MARSHALLS LLC, TJ Maxx & HomeGoods, and TK MAXX (Europe), generated over $50 Billion in revenue, more than Macy's and Nordstrom combined. This success was not generated from online sales but based on #BehavioralEconomics and applied human psychology, e.g., "bargains and the treasure hunt." The latest quarter was further proof of this resilience. Both TJX Cos. and Ross Stores, Inc. reported this week that comparable-store sales rose 3% in their quarters ended May 4 compared with a year earlier as inflation-pinched consumers sought out deals. This marks the seventh consecutive quarter of comparable sales growth for TJX and the sixth for Ross. Ross, whose consumers skew low-to-middle income, has been lowering prices to drive sales. TJX, with a higher-income clientele, has been able to raise prices selectively without much pushback. Bad times aren’t required for good times at these retailers—they were growing in 2021 when consumers were feeling flush. TJX, Ross and Burlington Stores, Inc. collective share of the #apparel and #footwear specialist market ballooned from 25% in 2019 to 31% last year. Off-price is likely stealing market share from home retailers, too. TJX’s HomeGoods business saw comparable-store sales rise 4% last quarter, while Ross Stores said the home category outpaced overall company growth. That contrasts with anemic home-related sales at retailers like Target and Beyond, the company that took on Bed Bath & Beyond’s website. Can off-price retailers keep growing? Weakness at other apparel brands suggests that they can. Recognizable brands such as Nike, lululemon, and Coach owner Tapestry have hit speed bumps on sales growth. Where there is unsold inventory, there are buying opportunities for off-price retailers. There could be a big wave of inventory from recent bankruptcies at EXPRESS and teen-focused rue21, as they close hundreds of stores. The wave of store closures also should help boost foot traffic at off-price retailers. Off-price historically has been the biggest beneficiary of apparel store closures. In addition to bankrupt retailers, Macy’s has announced plans to close 150 stores. UBS analysts estimate that more than 16,000 apparel stores could close over the next five years. This hasn’t gone unnoticed. TJX and Ross shares have appreciated 92% and 40%, respectively, over the past five years. They are now among the most expensive U.S.-listed apparel-industry stocks. They trade at forward-12-month earnings multiples that rival Nike’s and recently outpaced Lululemon’s. Off-price retail stocks aren’t cheap, but premium products never are. Well covered by Jinjoo Lee for the The Wall Street Journal

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In my latest article for Sourcing Journal, I examine the growing influence of reverse logistics in the resale market. While the resale industry is growing slower than most headlines suggest, it's proving sticky (and profitable) for brands that master the complexity of the back end. Dive in to learn about the businesses and new best practices emerging in this space. A special thanks to TERSUS Solutions (Peter Whitcomb), Debrand (Wes B.), ACS (Advanced Clothing Solutions) (MICHAEL CUSACK), The Renewal Workshop / Bleckmann (Nicole Bassett), Recurate (Adam Siegel), COYUCHI (Marcus Chung), and The Return (Brian Adams) for their collaboration on this article. #SustainableFashion #ApparelIndustry #ResaleMarket #ReverseLogistics #CircularEconomy

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Interesting read from Erica La Sala from Beauty Independent related to the Saks and Nieman merger. The question asked: What do you make of the Saks Fifth Avenue/Neiman Marcus deal? How will it impact the luxury beauty market? Will it strengthen the declining department store sector?  According to Cristina Nuñez, "... the department store channel is a challenging one. Historically, it has been the main retail channel for luxury beauty brands given it is more suited for a higher price point. But with continued declines in traffic at department stores, the channel has proven to be a difficult place for luxury brands to rely upon for growth. Instead, growth is being driven at specialty retailers such as SEPHORA and Ulta Beauty, whose dominance has largely been at the expense of department stores". "At the end of the day, consumers will continue to shop for beauty at retailers offering best-in-class in-store experiences optimized for brand discovery. Brands should seek out these partners offering the best brand building support and a path to achieving scale. Perhaps the combination of Saks and Neiman Marcus will allow for a more enhanced retail experience overall that is even better suited for luxury beauty. Time will tell." True Beauty Ventures

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The topic of innovation is top of mind in the performance running shoe market – especially if you ask Nike, which has been widely criticized for having a lackluster product pipeline by analysts and the Street in recent months. But for Deckers chief executive officer Dave Powers, this isn’t an issue for its star running brand Hoka. Indeed, on the product front, Hoka is driving growth and consumer acquisition through innovative updates and new introductions across a diverse assortment of footwear. Footwear News Deckers Brands HOKA Nike Dave Powers #running #hoka #runningshoe #earnings #sneakers #nike #marathon

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During NYCW, a conversation in partnership with Tapestry and Textile Exchange raised an important question: how can the fashion industry better connect consumer interest in sustainability with meaningful action? 🤔 We often talk about the consumer’s power to drive change in sustainable fashion, but do we truly know how to harness that power? (Spoiler alert, we don't 🙊) Real change starts by understanding why people make the choices they do. 💯 As humans, we’re driven by social validation, acceptance, individual expression, belonging, and status. People aren’t just buying products—they’re buying into a lifestyle and vision that aligns with their identity and aspirations. It’s not just about the product; it’s about the community, the world, and the lifestyle the brand represents. Outside of price point and accessibility, fast fashion thrives by tapping into our desire for status, belonging, and instant gratification, creating excitement through novelty and the promise of quick transformation. In sustainable fashion, we often talk about inspiring consumers to make responsible choices. And while many genuinely believe they care about sustainability and are motivated to act, their purchasing habits often tell a different story. The challenge is bridging that gap between intention and action. It’s not enough to simply say ‘buy less, buy better’ or overwhelm people with statistics about waste and environmental harm. We need to evolve the sustainability conversation beyond slogans and focus on the deeper psychology behind purchasing decisions and motivations. We need to design products that resonate with consumers and create experiences they’re excited to be a part of. 🙌🏾 Because even when people care about sustainability, real change happens when their actions align with their values—and that’s where the work begins. 🤓🧠 https://lnkd.in/gXn4JNP4

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A big thank you to Fashion Mannuscript (Mann Publications) for featuring insights from our CEO, Max Ma, on how the retail industry can tackle markdowns through smarter allocation and planning.  https://lnkd.in/eg8xgy6G In an era where consumer expectations are rapidly evolving, and supply chain disruptions are frequent, it's crucial for retailers to adapt with agility and precision. Max's latest article explores some key strategies for optimizing profitability: *Breaking Down Silos *Data-Driven Decisions *Real Results: *Tailored Allocation #RetailTransformation #SmartPlanning #MarkdownReduction #AIinRetail #7thonline #FashionMannuscript #RetailInnovation #InventoryOptimization  

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As Tapestry unravels, Is Michael Kors left holding the bag? In a twist that turned heads across the fashion world, a judge has blocked Coach owner Tapestry from buying Capri Holdings Limited, citing the #FTC’s competition concerns. Capri’s marquee brand, Michael Kors, has only deteriorated since the merger was announced—leading many to question the viability of Capri’s future. The market’s reaction was swift and brutal: Capri’s stock, already slumping, took a nosedive, while Tapestry’s shares jumped—a clear “phew” from investors who had qualms about Tapestry inheriting Capri’s challenged portfolio. Here’s why it’s a challenging situation for Capri: Since Michael Kors hit peak revenue in 2016, sales have been sliding, with margins crushed under the weight of excessive discounts. Capri’s operating margins, which once sat at a robust 30%, have now plummeted to below 10%. To top it off, since the deal was announced, Capri’s numbers have gone from bad to worse, with Michael Kors logging its seventh consecutive year-on-year sales decline. Even the higher-end Jimmy Choo and Versace lines have posted declines recently. In contrast, Coach—which faced similar challenges a few years back—has since pulled off a notable turnaround; Kudos to Todd Kahn. The hope was that Tapestry’s team could apply that same playbook to save Michael Kors. But now, with the deal stalled, Capri has to chart its own path or hunt for another buyer. Capri’s options aren’t enviable. The trial testimony cast a harsh light on its current strategy, and investors now demand a credible turnaround plan—and possibly some leadership changes. With shares sinking, the chances of an attractive takeover offer look slim. Ultimately, that discounted Michael Kors bag Capri hoped to pass along is now firmly—and perhaps permanently—in its own hands. "My life has been a tapestry Of rich and royal hue An everlasting vision Of the ever-changing view A wond'rous woven magic In bits of blue and gold A tapestry to feel and see Impossible to hold" "He moved with some uncertainty As if he didn't know Just what he was there for Or where he ought to go Once he reached for something Golden hanging from a tree And his hand came down empty" - “Tapestry” by Carole King - A message for Michael Kors? A message for the #fashion #brand #retail industry.

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The Apparel Industry’s Low-Tech Forecasting Dilemma: A Call for Innovation The recent Tex World event at New York’s Javits Convention Center highlighted a significant challenge within the apparel industry: the persistent reliance on low-tech forecasting methods. Despite having access to advanced technologies like AI, many companies still depend on outdated, intuitive approaches to predict consumer preferences. This inefficiency was starkly visible among the 600 exhibitors showcasing countless styles to an eager crowd of 5,000 designers and buyers. These professionals face the daunting task of deciding future trends, often leading to costly missteps and unsustainable practices. A notable example is Burberry, which saw a dramatic shift from a sales surge last year to a severe downturn, revealing the critical need for better forecasting tools. The current system, described by Matthijs Crietee of the International Apparel Federation as “one big gambling machine,” is fraught with risks. The answer lies in leveraging AI to minimize guesswork. By testing new designs online before production, we can avoid massive waste and respond more agilely to consumer demands. While the feel of fabrics can't be fully replicated digitally, AI can significantly streamline the decision-making process, reducing the overwhelming number of choices. The apparel industry must embrace these technologies to stay competitive and sustainable. As we’ve seen, those who quickly adapt—like Tractor Supply during the pandemic—thrive by understanding and acting on consumer data. https://lnkd.in/eXxwmuQY #ApparelIndustry #FashionForecasting #AI #Innovation #Sustainability #RetailTech #FutureOfFashion

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Explainer: What trends do US apparel imports reveal halfway through 2024? Just Style examines the latest OTEXA data for the month of June to see halfway through the year, who is the cheapest apparel supplier to the US and does it even matter as well as who is seeing the fastest growth? International Trade Administration #apparel #imports #JSDaily

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From Excess to eBay: Josh Feldman on Managing Inventory Josh Feldman, CEO of Tori Richard, delves into the complexities of managing excess inventory in the fashion industry. Using H&M as a case study, Josh discusses the challenges of surplus stock and the global repercussions of redistribution. Learn how excess goods can find their way from third-world countries to online marketplaces like eBay, and discover strategies for maintaining brand integrity. #GGRClips #GreaterGoodRadio #ConnectLearnHealGrow #InspirationalInterviews #Hawaii #PositiveImpact #AlohaSpirit #JoshFeldman #ToriRichard #InventoryManagement #ExcessInventory #FashionIndustry #BrandIntegrity #GlobalMarketplace #BusinessStrategy Evan Leong Josh F. Tori Richard, Ltd. WATCH the FULL VIDEO 👉 https://lnkd.in/gfHUNhWk

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Barneys Plots a Bigger Comeback Thanks to Neiman-Saks Deal. Talks include Barneys-branded home goods, outerwear lines. Contingent on negotiations, close of Saks-Neiman deal https://lnkd.in/euFeFyzJ #tradeguard #receivableputoptions #arputs #receivableputs #tradereceivables #accountsreceivables

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Saks Global and the Authentic Brands Group are forming a joint venture to grow luxury brands, WWD has learned. The new venture, called Authentic Luxury Group, will initially focus on Authentic Brands-owned luxury and accessible luxury names including Barneys New York, Judith Leiber Couture, Herve Leger by Max Azria and Vince. The principals of the Authentic Luxury Group touted several ambitious plans and aspirations, such as rolling out Barneys New York retail locations or in-store shops, adding categories to existing fashion brands in the Authentic Brands portfolio and widening their distribution in the U.S. and abroad, and purchasing brands. Essentially, the new luxury group plans to serve as an incubator for brand growth through strategic licensing agreements and distribution channels across fashion, retail, digital, hospitality, real estate, art and travel, according to the joint venture. Read more here : https://lnkd.in/exupXVZ6

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The intimate apparel market has significant opportunity. As Chantal Fernandez recently reported, only 16.5% of women share that they like their bra. Excited to be quoted in Madeleine Schulz latest piece for Vogue Business on the evolving intimates market. Major opportunity exists to better serve women through different life stages with dedicated marketing and community building. “I’m a fan of speciality retailers that nail fittings exceptionally well,” she says, referencing Rigby & Peller, Bare Necessities and Town Shop. “What I’d love to see next is for one of these to grow even more to be a household name and bring in more brands. We could all really benefit from a one-stop shop for some support and discovery on the best bra fits.” There’s also room for brands to more explicitly cater to different life stages, and dedicate marketing, content and community-building to these, she adds — first bra, body changes during puberty, pregnancy, nursing and postpartum, breast cancer and masectomies, as well as body changes during perimenopause and menopause, among them. “[There’s] so much opportunity to show up and be there for the customer.” Thanks for including my perspective on this evolving market. #retail #fashion #consumerinsights #retailstrategy

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Our CEO and founder, Gary Lenett, sat down with our friends at The Manual for an insightful discussion on the history of denim, innovations in performance jeans wear, and a glimpse into the future of apparel. "Finally, we find ourselves in the midst of a massive shift in the fashion world. Thanks to an already casualization of society and the cherry on top of a pandemic keeping us indoors, we no longer want to wear anything but conveniently comfortable athleisure. Of course, that doesn’t mean we ditch the trusty jeans. No, instead, we look at companies like DUER to innovate and bring us back something we can use today." Read the full interview to see how we're shaping the future of denim. This is one evolution you won’t want to miss: https://lnkd.in/gVYpcfhX

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Thanks to The Business of Fashion for including my thoughts in this article on the potential acquisition of Neiman Marcus by the parent of Saks Fifth Avenue. The merger of the two companies will create some benefits, but it still leaves lots of questions as to their future place in the luxury retail sector. In my view, corporate dealmaking is always exciting and generates a lot of promises. However, the real challenge is actually delivering on those promises. More in the article: https://lnkd.in/eny9tJzC #retail #retailnews #luxury #departmentstores #fashion #apparel

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