Amazon Struggles With Private Labels and Ralph Lauren Attempts Streetwear
AMAZON STRUGGLES WITH PRIVATE LABELS
Analysts high expectations for Amazon's apparel sales have set a high bar for the e-commerce giant. Anticipation of Amazon becoming the top U.S. retailer of apparel, surpassing market leaders like Macy's and Walmart, seemed imminent.
Yet, apparel is a serious challenge for Amazon. The company has continued to introduce more private labels, despite subpar performance (especially for women's apparel). Of the 10 worst performing Amazon private labels in any category, nine were women's or girl's clothing. Eighty-two percent of its women’s clothing lines fail to sell more than 100 units per month, according to research from Amazon seller data platform Jungle Scout.
PATAGONIA GOES POLITICAL
More brands are aligning themselves around political and social issues, and next up is Patagonia. While companies are usually less overt in their political maneuvers, (offering support via lobbying or CEO donations to candidates), Patagonia is going a step further by endorsing political candidates who support the conservation efforts that align with the brand's core values.
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5 TOP WOMEN IN RETAIL
Womenrock. This week is a win for women in the retail space, despite a decline in the number of female chief executives within Fortune 500 companies in 2018. Below is a list of five women transforming retail as we know it. The list represents women in leadership positions within the retail industry and who are executing on their vision with new tactics to reach consumers.
RALPH LAUREN AND STREETWEAR?
Streetwear's influence has caught the interest of investors and the luxury market to gain traction amongst Millennials and Gen Z. But is it for everyone?
The latest brand to jump on the streetwear bandwagon is Ralph Lauren, who will partner with London skater label Palace in the American brand's first introduction of streetwear. Palace is known for its spontaneous product "drops" and Ralph Lauren is infamous for the traditional preppy-style Polo Ralph Lauren brand.
We have to wonder: where is the common ground, and how will Ralph Lauren's streetwear partnership resonate with hypebeasts?
FAST RETAILING SAVES WATER
Fast Retailing has developed a new denim washing process. On average, producing a pair of jeans consumes 60 liters of water during the production cycle. The technology will make denim manufacturing a less water-intensive process, cutting water usage by up to 99%.
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THIS WEEK'S BRIGHT SPOT
Ross Stores will be making a $75,000 cash donation, through its namesake foundation, to the American Red Cross. These funds will help support those impacted by Hurricane Michael. Ross' charitable efforts will aid in providing much-needed shelter, food, and services for people affected by the storm.
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