Ashtin Pennell

THE SAKS-NEIMAN MARCUS MEGA-DEAL AND AMAZON'S UNDERGROUND PATH TO LUXURY Maghan McDowell for Vogue Business 💥 HBC, the parent company of luxury retailer Saks Fifth Avenue, has confirmed reports that its long-awaited deal to acquire rival Neiman Marcus Group — owner of Neiman Marcus and Bergdorf Goodman — for $2.65 billion is finally here. And as a pending investor in the merged company, Amazon has found a new path (or underground tunnel) into luxury fashion. 💭 “We’re thrilled to take this step in bringing together these iconic luxury names, Saks Fifth Avenue, Neiman Marcus and Bergdorf Goodman,” said Richard Baker, HBC executive chairman and CEO, in a statement. “For years, many in the industry have anticipated this transaction and the benefits it would drive for customers, partners and employees. This is an exciting time in luxury retail, with technological advancements creating new opportunities to redefine the customer experience, and we look forward to unlocking significant value for our customers, brand partners and employees.” 💥 An interesting development is Amazon’s involvement. Amazon will be an investor in and work with Saks Global “to innovate on behalf of customers and brands partners following the close of the transaction”, a release issued by HBC reads. This will give Amazon discrete access to luxury products, stores, sales associates and data. At the same time, the retailers stand to gain access to more sophisticated technology and logistics; Salesforce, which has been steadily rolling out generative artificial intelligence tools for retailers, will also become an investor. 👔 Amazon, the largest clothing retailer in the US, has for years worked to expand into luxury fashion, which has higher margins but is somewhat at odds with Amazon’s efficiency-over-style ethos. During the pandemic in 2020, it brokered deals with the Council of Fashion Designers of America and the British Fashion Council to start a new luxury stores division, recruiting brands including Oscar de la Renta, Jonathan Cohen and Adam Lippes. In 2022, it expanded that effort to include Europe, with brands including Christopher Kane and Elie Saab. It sponsored the CFDA awards in 2023. LEARN MORE: https://lnkd.in/eau7A69j #fashion #metaverse #ai #metaversefashion #investment #web3

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What time do you wake up in the morning? CEOs and top execs from leading footwear brands tell us what time they start their days.

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VICTORIA'S SECRET FASHION SHOW IS BACK AFTER A SIX-YEARS HIATUS METAVERSE FASHION MAGAZINE Victoria’s Secret & Co., renowned for its annual spectacle showcasing supermodels bedecked in jewel-studded bras and angelic wings, is poised to make a grand return this autumn, marking the end of a nearly six-year hiatus. The lingerie giant teased its revival in a recent Instagram post, promising a rejuvenated experience without divulging a specific date, suggesting potential alterations to the show's traditional format. This iconic event, famed for its opulent stage designs, elaborate attire, and bras adorned with multimillion-dollar gems, has hosted a galaxy of superstars such as Adriana Lima, Naomi Campbell, and Bella Hadid strutting down its runway. Alongside, it has featured musical luminaries like Rihanna, Taylor Swift, and Justin Bieber According to Reuters, the forthcoming 2024 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show aims to deliver a blend of glamour, fashion, and entertainment, all reimagined through a contemporary lens that resonates with today's audience. In 2019, amidst a landscape of declining sales and mounting criticisms regarding its brand image and lack of inclusivity, Victoria's Secret, a subsidiary of L Brands at the time, made the decision to shelve the show, citing the necessity to modernize its marketing strategies. Following L Brands' split into two distinct entities—Bath & Body Works and Victoria's Secret—the lingerie retailer has grappled with continued sales downturns post-spinoff. However, in a bid to maintain its connection with audiences, Victoria's Secret debuted the "Victoria's Secret World Tour" documentary on Amazon Prime last year, following the halt of its famed fashion showcase in November 2019. This revival harkens back to the inaugural Victoria's Secret Fashion Show, which dazzled audiences at the New York City Plaza Hotel in 1995. https://lnkd.in/evGifEsN #web3 #metaverse #fashion #nft #investment

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Ralph Lauren Corp., one of fashion’s most consistent performers, topped fourth-quarter earnings estimates as it continued to focus on its core products and push up its average unit prices. In the fourth quarter, Ralph Lauren’s net income jumped 180 percent to $90.7 million, or $1.38 a diluted share, from $32.3 million, or 48 cents, a year earlier. Adjusted earnings of $1.71 a share came in 5 cents ahead of the $1.66 analysts had penciled in, according to Yahoo Finance. 

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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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Introducing our new VP of Product, Fion Lam! Fion brings a deep understanding of the merchandising challenges modern apparel + footwear brands face — and the product chops required to develop elegant solutions to complex problems. Her time at iconic companies like Faire, Square, and Accel crystallized many foundational skills, none more important than the understanding that great products are rooted in customer empathy. Read the Q&A to: - Learn more about her product philosophy - Understand why solving the big data problem is so important for merchandising teams - Get her prediction about when retail waste will be a thing of the past https://lnkd.in/g-xwR_Ns

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I’ve just watched Fran Horowitz being interviewed on CNBC Money Movers program, discussing the latest Abercrombie & Fitch Co. results, having delivered a huge set of Q1 figures. The business has predicted net growth of +10% for the year, up from a previous estimate of 4-6%. Revenue rose for the sixth straight quarter to $1bn. Sales at the Abercrombie and Fitch core brand climbed 29% in the period, smashing already punchy estimates of 17%. Meanwhile teen-focused Hollister Co. delivered +13%, beating estimates of 8%. Since taking over as CEO in 2017, Horowitz has reversed the downward spiral of sales, building revenue from $3.26bn to well over $4bn. In a market as tough as this, that’s bloody impressive. Keeping things simple was the clear message from the interview. The first thing Horiwitz said was: “We are staying so, so close to our customer and really listening.” To begin with, they have really doubled-down on getting the product right. Take the Abercrombie wedding shop for example – The teams realised that a wedding isn’t just a single day now, either for the bride and groom, nor their guests. Instead, it is a three or four day event and attendees need multiple outfits which they plan this well in advance. Abercrombie are delivering a one-stop-shop in a space they’ve never played before. Smart. Similarly, they’ve really paid granular attention as to where their consumer shops; The Abercrombie customer is more likely to research and shop online, even if they collect in-store. However, the Hollister Co. teen loves physical retail, and the mall remains a key part of their social life – Horiwitz has adjusted the real estate accordingly. Horowitz was a great merchant, and her influence and experience really shows. Abercrombie keep their inventory really lean and are able to respond fast to the consumer needs. Too many competitor retailers go too deep, too early and are left with a ton of markdowns. As Horowitz says to interviewer Sara Eisen “We keep inventory very fluid and very open.” The company is also looking at its international markets as another growth channel. During the quarter, sales in Europe, the Middle East and Africa were up 19%, led by the U.K. and Germany. In the Asia Pacific region, sales were up 10%, led by China. This video is about three minutes, and it is a distilled lesson in good retail practice. Nothing flash or tricky, just a laser focus on product, customer and location. Worth a watch. DHR Global #retailnews #Q1

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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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Target announced a limited Pride Month collection after receiving backlash from conservatives last year. What can brands learn from this? 1. If you want to support the LGBTQ+ community, stand firm and unafraid. A bottom line should not define your allyship. 2. Expect resistance and prepare accordingly. Educate your employees on why your brand supports the LGBTQ+ community and ensure safety measures are in practice. 3. You cannot be an ally with an expiration date. #prad564

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From Rags to Fashion Icon! The story of Polo Ralph Lauren Ralph Lauren has: -         Presence in 50+ countries -         344 Retail Stores across Globe -         7000 Store in Stores -         9,275 Distribution Centers -         23,300 people employed -         $7 Billion Dollar Revenue   Story of Ralph Lauren, a lower middle class Jewish Immigrant in US who went on to become the Global Fashion Trendsetter!   Early Life and Inspiration: Born as Ralph Lifshitz in the Bronx, New York, Ralph Lauren grew up in a working-class Jewish family. From a young age, he was fascinated by fashion and elegance, inspired by classic movies and the sophisticated style of Hollywood icons. This passion drove him to pursue a career in fashion. 🎥✨ Starting Out: After serving in the United States Army, Ralph worked as a sales assistant at Brooks Brothers. Noticing a gap in the market for stylish and high-quality men's ties, he designed his own line of ties under the label "Polo" in 1967. His unique designs quickly gained popularity. �� Building a Brand: Ralph Lauren expanded his vision beyond ties, launching a full line of menswear under the Polo brand in 1968. His designs were characterized by their timeless elegance and classic American style. By the 1970s, he introduced women's wear, creating iconic pieces that redefined American fashion. 🕴️👗 The Polo Shirt Phenomenon: In 1972, Ralph Lauren introduced the Polo shirt, featuring the now-famous polo player logo. This shirt became a symbol of preppy style and casual sophistication, cementing Ralph Lauren's place in fashion history. The Polo shirt remains a best-seller to this day. 👕🏇 Expanding Horizons: Ralph Lauren continued to innovate and expand his brand, entering the home furnishings market in 1983 with the launch of Ralph Lauren Home. His collections, ranging from furniture to bed linens, brought his signature style into homes worldwide. 🏡🛋️ Going Public: In 1997, Ralph Lauren Corporation went public, listing on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol "RL." This move solidified Ralph Lauren's status as a major player in the global fashion industry, making his brand accessible to a wider audience. 📈💼 A Lifestyle Brand: Ralph Lauren's vision extended beyond fashion and home furnishings. He launched Ralph Lauren Fragrances, creating iconic scents like "Polo" and "Ralph." His brand became synonymous with a luxurious, aspirational lifestyle, encompassing everything from clothing to accessories and beyond. 🌟💐 Philanthropy and Legacy: Throughout his career, Ralph Lauren has been committed to giving back. He established the Ralph Lauren Corporate Foundation, supporting various causes, including cancer research, education, and the arts. His philanthropic efforts have made a significant impact on countless lives. 💖🎗️

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Today is Rana Plaza Remembrance Day, formerly known as Fashion Revolution Day. It is an important day to reflect on the significance of this event, as its relevance remains unchanged over the years. We should never forget that behind every piece of clothing, there are individuals, both human and animal, who have contributed to its production. Therefore, we would like to give the stage to those who are barely visible and heard, but close to our hearts - the smallscale farmers and employees of the ginning factories in Africa who produce the valuable cotton, as well as the goats and herders who produce the cashmere for our textiles. As consumers, we carry the responsibility for the production conditions with every purchasing decision we make. Each of us has the power to influence the working and living conditions of those involved in creating our clothes. Let's raise our voices today, and every day throughout the year, in support of the people and animals in the fashion and textile industry. Together, we can make a difference. #WhatsInMyClothes 🔍 #ranaplazaneveragain #fashionrevolutionday #fashionrevolution #fashrev #fashionrevolutionweek2024 #whomademyclothes #cottonmadeinafrica #regenerativecottonstandard #thegoodcashmerestandard #aidbytradefoundation

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We are featured by Footwear News in their recent article "The 15 Best White Sneakers for Women That Go With Everything in Your Spring Wardrobe". Fashion houses like Gucci and Chloé are leading the way, blending style and sophistication into their latest sneaker collections. Read the full article here✅: https://lnkd.in/dV4ujpD7 #FashionTrends #LuxuryFootwear #FashionInnovation #FutureMarketInsights

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Strategies and tactics about how to gather richest shoppers. A lot of conventional and close-to-conventional activities from top retailers like Neiman Marcus Group and Saks Fifth Avenue. Is it a true luxury experience? Or -at the end- is something like a mass-market (in smaller numbers)? #luxury #jewelry #jewellery https://lnkd.in/eNcCVgpG

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Time management in #VisualMerchandising— it's a constant dance of priorities! ⏲ For me, it's all about these 3 game-changers: 1/ Rise & Shine: I swear by sneaking in an hour early. It's my sacred time to dive into designs before the hustle begins. 2/ Team Harmony: Matching tasks to talents is key. When everyone plays to their strengths, it's like magic unfolding in our #displays. 3/ Batch & Blast: Chunking similar tasks together keeps my focus sharp. What about you? Any time-saving tricks you swear by? 🤔 #timemanagement #VMlife #timesavingtips #VisualMerchandiser #Businessowner #selfhelptips #Spacedesigner #VisionBoardStudio

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What does #inclusivity mean to you? Many of us hear the word and automatically think of #size inclusivity. Anthropologie launched its first #collection of 8 #adaptive friendly #apparel styles based on some of their best sellers. It’s not a matter of #function over #fashion. It’s taking fashion and developing it through a different lens. I applaud Anthro for making the effort, making the #investment. Approximately 1 in 4 people worldwide have a disability of some nature (some more visible than others) according to The Center for Disease Control & Prevention. The team partnered with Lucy Jones, founder and CEO of FFORA, a fashion brand that focuses on people with disabilities to properly fit the garments. Influencers from the disabled community were also brought on to be brand ambassadors and are the models within the photography. I do love how it is all part of the same shopping experience – just as if you were to choose the petite fit you can choose adaptive fit. There is also a collection link under clothing that has these styles ranked at the top. It's efforts and investments, such as, this one that foster community and loyalty among consumers. URBN’s revenue grew 7.8% to $1.2 Billion for Q1 driven by Anthropology and Free People while Urban Outfitters dropped 12.8%. Fashion is self-expression - one's personality. How do you best display your personality when options are limited? We are seeing adaptive collections pop-up here and there, but like many concerns we have regarding fashion it is going to take a conscious effort and investment, as well as, a change in design mentality for a brand to say we are here, we believe in this, and we will support adaptive fashion. Linked below is an article on the evolution of disability language along with recommendations on how to be more mindful of using inclusive language. What other brands do you believe are making progress to include more adaptive options?

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