Author: Dave Antrobus
Umar Kamani, founder of PrettyLittleThing, is returning to lead the company once more, aiming to revitalise its unique market position.Kamani plans to place a strong emphasis on customer-centric policies, revisiting past changes that impacted customer satisfaction.A key initiative includes reinstating free returns for loyalty programme members within three months of its removal.Kamani’s leadership previously saw collaboration with high-profile celebrities, contributing significantly to the brand’s global prominence.Recent financial challenges, including a significant drop in revenue and profits, have underscored the urgency for strategic adjustments.Umar Kamani is returning to PrettyLittleThing with a clear vision to rejuvenate its market presence, announcing a focus…
Umar Kamani, founder and former CEO of PrettyLittleThing, makes a comeback to revive customer relations.Kamani aims to address issues of customer disconnection and enhance user experience.Reintroduction of free returns for royalty members is a top priority.Kamani previously stepped down to explore new opportunities but now returns in a full-time capacity.His return signals a strategic move to align product, campaigns, and strategy with customer needs.Umar Kamani, the founder and former CEO of PrettyLittleThing, has announced his return to the company, emphasizing his commitment to reconnect with customers and implement improvements. Kamani expressed his desire to restore the essence of the brand,…
Sarah Burton’s appointment marks a new chapter for Givenchy.Burton transitions from Alexander McQueen, ending a 27-year tenure.She follows the legacy of McQueen, previous Givenchy creative director.Burton is the eighth creative director since Givenchy’s 1952 inception.Her leadership begins following Paris Fashion Week’s Spring/Summer 2024 show.Sarah Burton has been appointed as the new creative director of Givenchy, a significant move that opens a fresh chapter for the iconic French luxury brand. After serving for 27 years at Alexander McQueen, where she began as a close collaborator and eventually led as creative director, Burton’s transition to Givenchy underscores her substantial experience and deep-rooted…
The September edition of Drapers delves into the dynamic world of independent fashion retail, highlighting both the challenges and triumphs faced by this resilient sector.Rising operational costs, shoplifting incidents, and the aftermath of Brexit are identified as primary hurdles for independent retailers this season.Luxury fashion brands witness a shift as consumers’ interest gravitates towards more affordable options and second-hand markets.Superdry’s CEO, Julian Dunkerton, shares his strategic vision to revitalise the brand with significant financial backing and innovative approaches.A surge in second-hand shopping prompts retailers to introduce new pre-loved product lines to meet growing consumer demand.The September issue of Drapers provides…
The luxury fashion industry is witnessing a major leadership transition as Benedetta Petruzzo, current CEO of Miu Miu, is set to join Christian Dior Couture.Petruzzo will step into her new role as managing director of Dior on 15 October 2024, succeeding Charles Delapalme.Her tenure at Miu Miu saw a remarkable 93% increase in sales, highlighting her effectiveness in leadership.Delaphine Arnault of Christian Dior expressed strong confidence in Petruzzo’s ability to innovate and expand Dior’s global reach.This move comes amidst a slight dip in LVMH’s overall revenue, yet it signals strategic leadership enhancements for Dior.Benedetta Petruzzo, celebrated for her exceptional leadership…
Celebrating its 40th anniversary, London Fashion Week (LFW) is expanding its reach across the UK.The British Fashion Council (BFC) introduces the City Wide Celebration (CWC) in Manchester and Newcastle.LFW’s CWC features over 1,000 public events from 350 brands in September.Renowned venues like Covent Garden, Selfridges, and Fenwick lead city celebrations.The initiative seeks to connect consumers with the fashion industry through cultural events.Celebrating its 40-year legacy, London Fashion Week (LFW) is making history by expanding its reach across the United Kingdom. As part of the celebrations, the British Fashion Council (BFC) has launched an expanded version of its City Wide Celebration…
John Lewis Partnership has submitted a planning application for a major residential development in Reading.The proposal includes an £80m investment to transform a disused warehouse into 215 rental homes.Amenities in the project will feature 6,000 sq ft of community space and gardens.This development is part of a broader £500m joint venture to build 1,000 homes.The local planning committee will review these plans early next year.John Lewis Partnership has officially submitted a planning application for the redevelopment of a former distribution warehouse in Reading into a substantial residential complex. The proposal, which requires an investment exceeding £80 million, aims to construct…
Uniqlo has appointed Clare Waight Keller as their new creative director, bolstering their design team with her extensive experience.Waight Keller’s career highlights include leading roles at Pringle of Scotland, Chloé, and Givenchy, underscoring her design prowess.Her work on Uniqlo: C since 2023 has garnered positive reception, leading to her expanded responsibilities.Waight Keller will now oversee both the womenswear and menswear collections from autumn/winter 2024.Fast Retailing executives express confidence in her ability to enhance Uniqlo LifeWear, reflecting consumer-centric design.Japanese retail giant Uniqlo has named British designer Clare Waight Keller as its new creative director. This significant appointment is anticipated to reinforce…
A recent webinar delved into urban delivery challenges and solutions.City dwellers demand fast and smooth delivery experiences.Retailers face profitability and sustainability challenges with deliveries.Experts shared insights on unique urban delivery strategies.The event featured specialists from Selfridges, Reskinned, and Zedify.In a recent exploration of urban delivery dynamics, a webinar brought together thought leaders from the retail sector, including representatives from Selfridges and Reskinned. The discussion centred around the pressing need for fast and flexible delivery services that meet the unique demands of city-based consumers. These consumers have been identified as having particularly high expectations, desiring not only speed but also multiple…
The British Footwear Development Trust (BFDT) has announced the revival of its educational grants, focusing on growth in the UK footwear industry.The programme supports both individuals and businesses, ranging from formal education to practical experience in footwear.Since its inception in 2023, it has benefited companies like Fairfax and Favor in developing their teams.Industry professionals have praised the programme for enhancing skills and fostering innovation.Applications for the 2024 grant opened on 2 September and close on 30 September.The British Footwear Development Trust (BFDT) has reintroduced its educational and training grants, continuing its work from 2023 to stimulate growth and innovation in…
