A recent survey conducted by JOOR, an online wholesale management specialist, has revealed a significant increase in the demand for in-season and evergreen collections worldwide. The survey found that 22% of brands now offer evergreen collections, representing a growth from 15% in the previous year. These collections allow brands and designers to extend their sales windows and maintain consistency in both their products and sales.
This trend is mainly driven by buyer demand, as it provides fashion buyers with a sense of confidence in managing inventories more effectively and focusing on successful styles. The survey also highlighted a shift in buying habits, with 39% of brands accepting orders closer to delivery and 53% of buyers placing their orders later in the season. This change is particularly evident in North America, where 55% of buyers plan to buy later. Economic uncertainty is believed to be the main factor behind this trend, as buyers are more cautious with their budgets and are more reactive to consumer demands and trends.
Kristin Savilia, the CEO of JOOR, emphasized that buyers appreciate the immediacy of being able to place orders closer to the season, reflecting a shift towards a more thoughtful and strategic approach to investment in the fashion industry. Despite the growing focus on their own retail operations in recent years, there has been a resurgence in the use of wholesale as a sales channel. Lanvin Group, for example, experienced a remarkable 260% growth in wholesale sales. Wholesale is seen as a stable and reliable channel that allows brands and designers to reach a wider audience.
Moreover, the survey revealed positive signs of recovery in the wholesale sector, with nearly 60% of brands achieving sales volumes equal to or greater than pre-pandemic levels. Additionally, 52% of buyers have open-to-buy budgets that are equal to or greater than pre-pandemic levels. This indicates a positive trend towards increased spending in the fashion industry.
In conclusion, the demand for in-season and evergreen collections is witnessing a global rise due to buyer demand and the opportunity for effective inventory management. The shift towards accepting orders closer to delivery and buying later in the season reflects a desire for stability and increased responsiveness to trends. Wholesale is experiencing a resurgence as brands and designers recognize its reliability and ability to reach a wider market. The positive signs of recovery in the wholesale sector suggest a promising future for the fashion industry.
Useful Links:
– JOOR
– Business of Fashion: Why Wholesale is Seeing a Resurgence
