Selfridges, the renowned high-priced fashion retailer, has been recognized as having the most affordable rental platform in the UK. According to a study conducted by savings site VoucherCodes.co.uk, Selfridges Rental offers the cheapest prices for 10 popular rental dress labels when booked over a four-day period. However, there were significant price differences compared to other rental platforms such as Hurr and By Rotation, which are operated by Hurr.
VoucherCodes attributed the price discrepancies to the fact that Hurr allows consumers to upload and rent out their own clothing, which is not an option available at Selfridges. By allowing consumers to set their own prices, the rental prices on Hurr may be skewed.
The study focused on dresses as wedding season is underway and they are a popular rental category during this time of year. The prices were analyzed between late March and early April. The results revealed that the price of renting a Reformation dress can vary up to 113%, with a 91% difference for a 16Arlington dress, 80% for Stine Goya, and the smallest price difference being Zimmerman at 39%.
Out of the 10 popular wedding guest brands included in the study, Selfridges Rental had the lowest prices for nine out of 10 items. The average cost for all 10 brands was £637.17 at Selfridges, £795.50 at Hurr, and £1,049.34 at By Rotation.
Maureen McDonagh, the Managing Director of VoucherCodes, commented on the study findings. She stated that it is not surprising that rental services provided by retail giants like Selfridges offer the best value for money to customers. McDonagh explained that the business models of these retail giants create cost savings that are reflected in their rental prices. However, she highlighted the importance for smaller rental services to offer customers value for money in alternative ways. This could include investing in a personalized customer experience, loyalty schemes, off-season discounts, and bonus discounts such as birthday offers. These strategies can help smaller rental platforms stay competitive in this relatively new and exciting market.
Useful links:
1. Selfridges official website
2. Hurr rental platform
