The Challenges of Apparel Retail
Our business world is full of challenges. These challenges can range from current issues to those that could develop later. The apparel retail industry faces many difficult challenges of their own on the fashion market. Those challenges can be seen from industry, to retail, to consumer. They can be seen in the cost of making a design, price challenge, public acceptance of the manufactured and designed product, and global production competitors. Apparel challenges begin in the cost production of a product. What will be the bottom line of the total cost be to make the garment? This challenge facing the designer includes elements of how best to make the product from acceptable, attractive fabrics of reasonable cost and the cost of needed employees to get the job done to please consumers. It’s challenging to a designer because they are making their living on the purchasing power of the consumer. The price today must meet the affordability of the consumer. Yet, at the same time, the designer needs to make adequate money to cover material, pay labor and advertising, and make a profit for him self. Yes, it is a production cycle challenging to everyone. Another challenge of apparel retail is the acceptance of the designer’s products by the public. The public could be (and probably is) a designers worst nightmare. The public casts their opinions on the design by either buying or not buying the product because of appearance or price. An individual desires for what looks best for them and what meets their budget through our now challenging economy. Designers must keep this in mind while balancing the expenses and availability on his end. The price is a crucial part in apparel retail. Many ask and ponder whether the product is of quality design, durable, stylish, and economical. What challenging elements for a designer! Finally, challenges to the apparel industry are becoming global. The United States is competitive with overseas companies in the marketing and manufacturing of retail products. They present a challenge to the production, quality, and acceptance of clothing lines and styles. Many designers and clothing lines are not here in the United States. “In emerging markets around the world, the spending power of consumers is rapidly changing the retail industry, both globally and locally. Multinational retailers seeking new sources of growth are watching the mass markets of Brazil, China, and India, whose large populations and strong economic growth have made them nearly irresistible.” http://www.mckinseyquarterly.com/How_half_the_world_shops_Apparel_in_Brazil_China_and_India_2075