Author: Dave Antrobus
The rapid advancement towards greater supply chain transparency is exemplified by Tesco’s pioneering implementation of digital passports for clothing.Tesco is proactively adopting digital passports across its F&F fashion collection as the EU mandates enhanced supply chain transparency.Customers will gain comprehensive insights into the origins of materials used in Tesco garments, aligning with emerging European transparency standards.The initiative coincides with stricter EU regulations prohibiting the destruction of unsold clothes and enforcing transparency.Other companies, like Nobody’s Child, are also embracing this technology, promoting informed and conscious consumer choices.The retail sector is undergoing a significant transformation as Tesco introduces digital passports for its…
Go Outdoors is set to open Europe’s largest outdoor store in York’s Vangarde Shopping Park, previously a John Lewis site.The store spans a massive 125,000 sq ft and features 380 brands, including Adidas and Salomon.The opening will create 42 new jobs, with a significant portion being filled by local hires.A unique Alpine Café will provide fresh, locally-sourced meals, enhancing the shopping experience.Brand ambassador Helen Skelton is scheduled to host the opening weekend festivities.In a landmark move, Go Outdoors is preparing to launch what it claims to be the largest outdoor store in Europe, occupying a vast 125,000 sq ft space…
Vinted has responded to user complaints regarding recent changes to delivery options.Several users reported issues accessing courier selections in the Vinted app.The company has restored previous settings following social media backlash.Vinted emphasises its commitment to improving user experience through trials.Financial performance remains strong, with notable revenue growth.Vinted, a prominent second-hand marketplace, has responded to user dissatisfaction concerning modifications to its delivery options earlier this week. On Monday, 5 August, a number of Vinted’s users in the UK encountered difficulties accessing the platform’s courier selection list, which includes services such as Evri, Yodel, InPost, DPD, and Royal Mail.Although users have the…
The ongoing riots across the UK have significantly impacted high street footfall.Foot traffic has declined sharply, with data showing a 4.8% weekly drop from 4 to 7 August.A peak decline of 7.5% was recorded on 7 August, largely attributed to rioting and protests.Regional cities, especially North & Yorkshire and the West Midlands, experienced the greatest impact.Retailers have been compelled to close early, prioritising staff safety amidst escalating tensions.The ongoing riots across the UK have significantly impacted high street footfall, with notable declines observed throughout the first week of August. This period saw a considerable 4.8% week-on-week decrease in the number…
This month’s analysis delves into the latest trends and insights within the fashion industry, highlighting Mytheresa’s success amidst challenges and the impact of store design on customer experience.Mytheresa emerges resilient as other luxury fashion competitors face trading difficulties.Retailers such as Marks & Spencer and Primark invest significantly in enhancing store design.Spring/Summer 2025 brings a fresh wave of womenswear and footwear trends.The Labour government’s entry prompts fashion retailers to assess their progress.Mytheresa continues to thrive in a challenging market environment, distinguishing itself from its luxury competitors who are experiencing adverse trading conditions. The CEO, Michael Kliger, attributes this success to their…
In the face of rising ecommerce demands, the fashion retail sector is grappling with the complexities of customer returns.Customer expectations for returns favour choice, speed, and ideally, no fees, placing pressure on retailers.Retailers are challenged by the need to address the trend of serial returners while maintaining stock and pricing strategies.Paid returns are gaining traction as a strategy, sparking debates on balancing business needs with customer satisfaction.Sustainability is becoming a crucial consideration in return policies, emphasising paperless methods and rental models.In the face of rising ecommerce demands, the fashion retail sector is tackling the complexities inherent in customer returns, a…
In just over a month, Labour’s administration has made swift policy moves impacting various sectors, including fashion retail.Labour’s swift action on economic policies shows promise but has not fully capitalised on opportunities.Industry experts express concerns over missed economic opportunities despite initial positive moves.Labour’s policy framework has received mixed reviews from the fashion retail sector.Industry CEOs highlight both anticipation and apprehension regarding regulatory changes.Since taking office just over a month ago, the Labour government has moved quickly to implement policy changes affecting numerous industries, including fashion retail. Labour’s proactive approach aims to stimulate economic growth, yet leaders in fashion express mixed…
Zalando, Europe’s largest fashion e-commerce platform, reported a notable 3.4% revenue growth for Q2 2024, propelled by the ‘Summer of Sports’.The etailer’s gross merchandise volume also increased by 2.8% this quarter, reflecting successful market strategies.Operational efficiencies were achieved with an increased EBIT margin of 6.5%, attributed to improved gross margins and reduced expenses.Zalando capitalised on high-profile sports campaigns in major European cities, leading to a record-breaking sports sales month in June.Strategic investments in AI and B2B expansion were highlighted, alongside leadership changes within the company.Zalando’s latest financial report showcases a robust revenue growth of 3.4% in the second quarter of…
Asos proposes a new bonus plan aimed at substantial shareholder value.The proposed “Value Creation Plan” could replace the existing incentive scheme.Executive bonuses are linked to significant share price targets.The plan is set against a backdrop of recent sales challenges.Shareholder deliberation on the proposal is scheduled for 20 August.Asos has put forward a Value Creation Plan intended to deliver ‘exceptional value for shareholders through substantial growth’ by reshaping how executive bonuses are awarded. This proposal marks a significant shift in remuneration strategy, ensuring senior leaders’ rewards are closely aligned with the company’s ambitions to enhance shareholder return by boosting the company’s…
Drapers Sustainable Fashion Awards rebrands to Drapers Conscious Fashion Awards for 2025.Event continues to promote responsible business practices in the fashion industry.Awards aligned with UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, judged by experts.New categories introduced: Empowering People Initiative and Power Product of the Year.Coincides with Drapers Conscious Fashion Summit in March 2025.For the year 2025, the well-regarded Drapers Sustainable Fashion Awards have departed from their original branding to form the newly titled Drapers Conscious Fashion Awards. This evolution reflects a significant shift in the fashion industry’s commitment to sustainability. The awards, by acknowledging businesses at the forefront of responsible practices, aim to…
