Verdict Research: The UK clothing market is mature and has been driven by the value retailers for a decade but faced with falling demand and low growth, combined with the return of inflation, retailers need to reassess their strategies and look for new avenues of growth. This report delivers insightful analysis and identifies the opportunities in the market as well as in individual sectors.

Scope

Detailed chapters on the clothing market, plus womenswear, menswear and childrenswear sectors, issues and opportunities for each.
Includes market sizes and growth drivers 1999-2010e, market shares of Top 20 players (2004-2009), spend per head and per age group of each sector.
Population trends, profile of clothing shoppers, loyalty drivers by gender and age, retailer clothing visitors numbers and spend per head.
Channel shares and market segmentation (value, midmarket and premium) 2004-2009.

Highlights

After a decade of the value retailers driving the clothing market in the UK, there has been a shift and the premium segment is to become the new battleground. Price inflation is returning to the market and the value sector has consolidated into the hands of largest operators. Opportunities for retailers now lie in the premium segment.

Though the 55-64 year age group is the lowest segment by value in the womenswear market, worth £2.83bn, its spend per head is the second highest at £760. This further underlines that this generation of women, who will be moving into the 65+ market over the next five years, should not be underestimated.

The recession has hit menswear spending and population trends are likely to hit it further unless retailers act to stimulate it. It has lower spend per head than womenswear or childrenswear. The biggest spending category, 15-24 year olds, is set to shrink by 4.5% by 2015 and the current lowest spending group, 55+s, are set to rise significantly.

Reasons to Purchase

Identify growth opportunities in your sector and take market share from competitors
Understand the issues and challenges in the market to plan strategy and avoid risk
Access unique data and analysis on population spending trends in the clothing sectors and exploit the potential fully

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Overview 1
Introduction 1

SUMMARY 1

CLOTHING MARKET SUMMARY 2

KEY FINDINGS 2

CLOTHING MARKET 14
Clothing & footwear market spending trends 14
Spend per head in individual sectors 15
UK clothing shopper profile 16
Clothing market value and spending trends 17
Clothing market value and trends by age group 19
Clothing market shares 22
Clothing visitors 26
Clothing expenditure via channels 29
Online clothing sales and shopper profile 36
Population trends and effect on the clothing market 38
Clothing market issues 40

CLOTHING MARKET OPPORTUNITIES 42

WOMENSWEAR SUMMARY 44
Inflationary, demographic and social trends encourage trading up 44

WOMENSWEAR MARKET 46
Spending trends in womenswear 46
Shift in market from high volume to inflation 51
Womenswear spend per head 54
Primark challenges leaders as it grabs market share 55
Market segment analysis 65
Spending trends by age group 67
Online spending trends 72

WOMENSWEAR OPPORTUNITIES 73
Changing lifestyles create new opportunities 73
Service and quality have increasing importance 74
Shift upmarket 76
Opportunities in womenswear – summary 77

MENSWEAR SUMMARY 79
Needs strong stimulus to counter population trends 79

MENSWEAR MARKET 81
Growth slows as prices rise and volumes fall 81
Menswear underperforms 84
Consolidation as supermarkets gain ground 88
Segment analysis – middle market squeeze 95
Propensity to shop for clothes declines with age 96
Population trends and influence on menswear 97
Price trends different to womenswear, not a loyalty factor for all men 99
Online takes more share in menswear 101

MENSWEAR OPPORTUNITIES 102
Need to stimulate clothes spending … 102
… particularly among older men 102
15-24 years currently most valuable, but numbers falling and unemployment rising 105
Opportunities in menswear – summary 106

CHILDRENSWEAR SUMMARY 108
Opportunity lies in boyswear and non-clothing 108

CHILDRENSWEAR MARKET 110
Childrenswear more resilient than other clothing sectors in recession 110
Childrenswear market value and spending trends by sectors 111
Girlswear reflects womenswear as key driver of sales 113
Population trends favour infantswear 117
Value retailers and grocers move up table for childrenswear share 119
Grocers and clothing specialists gain from Woolworth’s demise 124
Value retailers grabbing ever larger share of midmarket 125

CHILDRENSWEAR OPPORTUNITIES 127
Boyswear needs to be exploited fully to realise potential 127
Non-clothing should be added to increase basket sizes 128
Target affluent older parents 129
Target local population 131
Target online 132
Opportunities in childrenswear – summary 134

ACCESSORIES MARKET 135
Market value and sub categories 2005-2009 135
Year-on-year growth % 2005-2009 135

APPENDIX 136
Clothing market definitions 136
Methodology 137
Further reading 137
Ask the analyst 138
Verdict consulting 138
Disclaimer 138

Anya Hindmarch’s trendy “I am Not A Plastic Bag” design makes enormous gains in popularity, which sold out of London stores just hours after being released. The aim of the design is simple — to encourage people not to use plastic carrier bags. The simple bag has become a symbol of ethical intent – and a very fashionable one at that.

The popularity of this bag should be proof that consumers are willing and excited to have some non-plastic reusable alternatives. Hindmarch told the media: “I hate the idea of making the environment trendy, but you need to make it cool and then it becomes a habit.”

We are now pleased to see all kinds of reusable bags step into the market and become a focus. Bag manufacturers have sensed this trend and making actions.

Reusable Fabric Options – No More Plastic Bag

String bag: This bag is completely lightweight yet able to carry a lot of groceries. The best thing about it is its ability to stretch, so just when you think you’ve fit all that, you can still throw in that last stuff. Meanwhile, the problem with the string bag is its lack of structure when loading and also the perception that it could be unsanitary, especially when it comes to food.

Lightweight Nylon: The cool thing about this alternative is that it fits in with the current system for bagging groceries at the check-out counter. It is a more durable but still lightweight material compared to the plastic bag. But again it lacks structure when loading.

Heavy Duty Nylon: This bag is made to last a lifetime. Tote bag often made of this heavy nylon. It resembles a traditional paper grocery bag with some added handles; it stands nicely on its own for easy packing. However with that durability and quality of materials come a not-so-compact package. It folds similarly to a paper grocery bag.

Each of them has its advantages and disadvantages. The thing is, they all have the potential to save thousands of throw away PGBs from plastic bags.

Supplementary to Typical Leather Handbag or Designer Bag

At first blush, the trend of reusable shopping bags would seem at odds with the explosive growth of high-end handbags. But it turns out that some consumers are eager to walk around with a ,000 Coach purse on one arm and the Coach shopping bag it came in on the other.

Until recently, high-priced, top-of-the-line imported handbags were a status symbol. But today, designer goods have flooded the market, are no longer as exclusive as they once were. Every woman needs a leather handbag or a designer bag, but they also need a practical bag, such as a tote bag or shopping bag for holding many stuff that their leather bag can’t handle, such as A4 document, a cup of coffee, lunch box, some big accessories…

For example, last summer in 2007, many women in china are choosing straw bags for their reasonable price, their suitability for the summer season, and the possibility of matching them up with many different styles. The best of all, it is nature and reusable.

Pattern and Style Choice

Environmental friendly people want to be associated and seen with natural fabric bags. Available in soft and natural hues, some bags ooze class and concern. Multicolored patchwork bags, printed bags, embroidered and embossed bags are everyone’s favorite.

In bag related trade shows, lots of design elements and latest fashion trend is revealed. Certain bags are cute, featuring a corsage, embroidered beads, or braided ribbons as decoration, while others are more flashy, featuring rhinestones, of are inspired by classic Asian styles, with wooden beads or sea shells. There are bags for all outfits and occasions. Some women at fireworks festivals and other summer events this year prefer carrying straw bags. Some bags can be paired with dresses for a softer, more feminine look, but they also go will with slightly mannish short-sleeved jackets and pants sets and suits. Anyway, versatility is an appeal.

Popular Items – Straw Bag, Tote Bag in Green Design

Tote Shopping Bag – Big and Practical

Big is the fashion. Bags get bigger with cooler weather because you have more to carry (umbrellas, wraps, hats). Nearly every woman has at least one tote bag, whether it’s for a day at the beach, a picnic, browsing at the flea market or just a day at the mall. After all, a good tote bag is very popular – an absolutely indispensable item. Because canvas tote bags come in a variety of designs and styles, you can match them with coordinating sandals, a t-shirt, gym clothes, or your favorite dress. You can make a bold fashion statement with these versatile bags. Tote bags can replace traditional plastic and paper shopping bags. After you use the tote bags for groceries, fold them and place them near the door so you can pick them up next time on your way.

Straw Fashion

Straw handbags combine colorful and funky designs with the latest trends for natural looks and environment-friendly statements, carrying a unique appeal to consumers. Compared to the conventional leather and fabric handbags, they are much lighter. The use of natural grass also fits in with the trend for environmental protection, while many handbags even come as “natural” straw to accentuate their appeal – and probably even enhance health requirements for the product.

Trend or Demand for Future Reusable Bag Industry

The reusable bag is still the bag of choice for most occasions under the prevailing theme about environment protection. So people would strive to make it better, and the solution should be a bag that is, (I mean many kinds of bag suited to different occasions):

1 Easily folded flat, both for storage at the checkout counter and for refolding for the return journey;

2 Relatively inexpensive to produce, so the supermarket and grocery stores would use it in greater amount not worrying about their cost control.

3 Made of durable, sustainable materials that give the bag structure but also keep it lightweight;

4 Easy to carry, possibly in different configurations (traditional handles, over the shoulder, etc);

5 Has an appropriate strategy for end-of-life disposal when it is finally properly disposed of after a lifetime of good use.

6 Not only durable and long lasting, but also attractive, comfortable and classy.

The last point means that the reusable bags can also be connected to “fashion”. When you think of the “I’m not a plastic bag” craze though many western countries recently.

Alluring Business Potential for Reusable Bags in this Eco-friendly Market Atmosphere

Use of recyclable and reusable bags has now been promoted as a lifestyle. In cities like New York, Chicago and Los Angeles, customers have begun treating eco-friendly bags such as nylon bag as an indispensable accessory that can be reused for weeks, even months, to carry laundry to the cleaners, books to the beach or lunch to the office.

These bags are the most popular choice for both corporate as well as personal gifting. So stores or manufacturers, sensing a marketing opportunity, are racing to a heated competition to make the most durable, fashionable reusable bags. From upscale emporiums to midprice chains, retailers are investing millions of dollars in new flourishes like plastic-coated paper and heavy fabric cord handles.

What is the best kind of market to target in a wholesale clothing business? Although there are a lot of market that anyone could make as a niche for their wholesaling business, like specialty clothing or formal dresses, the main market is usually divided into three categories, men’s clothing, women’s clothing, and kid’s clothing. A number of wholesale clothing businesses today are aimed at one specific market, such as a wholesale womens clothing business that sells different kinds of clothing from urban clothing lines to formal clothing uniquely for the women. But the question is, which of these are the most profitable? Men’s Clothing In the past, men’s clothing were not as popular as the woman’s clothing. Today, however, things have changed with the men’s preferred clothing. Although men usually doesn’t buy their own clothing, usually because they would rather use their money for something else, men of today’s market have become more fashion oriented than in the past. These is because of the line of clothing available today in the market. Several popular clothing lines for men are those inspired by women’s blouses, those with shorter sleeves and tighter shirts. This kind of design lets the man to show his manliness, accentuating his figure through his tight clothing. This is why the industry pertaining to men’s clothing have grown so much.
Women’s Clothing The women’s taste for clothing haven’t changed since the dawn of time, which is why a wholesale womens clothing business is still very profitable. The women are still known for their taste in clothing, especially the ones which are in-season. Although men’s clothing are quickly gaining pace in the market, women’s clothing are still considered profitable, particularly because many women would usually go off and buy multiple lines of clothing in one day. The only thing that a wholesale womens clothing business would have to remember is that women are picky with their clothing. So its very important to learn of what is in-season today. It doesn’t matter if the clothing line is as popular as Dereon is, the important thing is that it provides the women a taste of what’s “In” today. Kid’s Clothing The kid’s clothing, although not as encouraging as with other markets, is considered as the most profitable. The reason behind this is that several parents would always give the best for their children, particularly in clothing. Another is that kids grow faster than adults which is why many parents would usually buy clothing several times a week for their children. Growing kids would also want to buy a clothing which is in-season or in fashion today, such as in cases in which a child sees another child with the same clothing. These are the reasons why kid’s clothing is considered as the most profitable market of all. For more information visit to our site at  http://www.sevenwholesale.com

Ugg is well-known precisely for this uniqueness and innovative, bold pattern and pattern ideas! No create a principal main difference what figure you have, you will arrive all by means of a pair of precise boots at Ugg. Ankle boots has turn into drastically even an amazing offer more and drastically even an amazing offer more favored nowadays. Finding a trendsetter, Ugg will by no implies neglect this. Ugg Tasmania short boots are precisely with this kind. Incomparable comfort and durability wins it a brilliant reputation.

 

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Wholesale fashion jewelery is assigned to businesses primarily engaged in manufacturing fashion jewelry, costume novelties and ornaments made of all materials, except precious metal, precious or semiprecious stones, and rolled gold paste and gold-filled materials. The products manufactured within this category include such items as necklaces, rings, artificial pearls, compacts, cuff links, and rosaries.

Wholesale fashion jewelry business is gradually progressing, most fashion jewelers provide a wide array of exquisite blend of designs and unique styles for their customers. The wholesale jewelry sellers offer unique designs, made of high quality material at reasonable price.

Wholesalers of fashion jewelery keep in contact with manufacturer and as well as the market. The jewelry designers all around the globe focus on providing exquisite patterns and designs of jewelry for their clients. They also make sure to provide their clients with timely delivery of the best jewelry products, at most affordable and competitive price. The retailers ensure to provide appreciative customer satisfaction, to draw more customers. The best possible services ensure a constant business relationship between manufacturer and the retailer. There are several companies who display their jewelry products in beautifully designed boxes and also offer great discounts on the festive season to appeal more customers.

Wholesale fashion jewelry market continuously supplies a wide variety of fashion jewelery to different markets. These fashion jewelry are decorated beautifully at their outlet to draw customer’s attention. There may be some sellers in the market, who do not deal with genuine jewelery products. It is important for the customers to check the quality of products before purchasing them. One should search for the most reputed and well accomplished sellers to purchase the jewelry. They give assurance to return or replace the defective products and exchange the jewelry pieces.

Wholesale fashion jewelery from China these days comes in unique designs which are a blend of aesthetics and styles. These wholesalers provide an extensive rate of fashion jewelry to a number of global clients. Some renowned manufacturers also offer customized option of jewelry design to their clients.

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