Bend It Like Lulu Aug 10, 2008
"There are only a few examples of CEOs without apparel background heading up apparel companies, and so far none have proven successful," writes Goldman's Tan in her July 28 report on Lululemon. Meanwhile, Lululemon recently tweaked its store roll-out strategy and has increased the number of assistant managers they hire per each new store and the amount of time they spend in a new market "pre-seeding the brand.". (New York Post -- Business)
Canada's fashion streak on the line in Beijing Aug 7, 2008
Many teams have uniforms that are being created by athletic apparel companies such as Adidas or Puma. (The US team is outfitted in preppy tennis white designed by Ralph Lauren. (Boston Globe)
Eco fashion sized up Jul 7, 2008
To gain credibility, some apparel companies join Co-op of America, which screens companies for environmental and social practices. Some boutiques and designers adhere to Social Accountability International's certification for ethical workplace conditions along the supply chains. (San Francisco Business Times, CA)
The Hard Truths About Global Supply Chains Jun 24, 2008
They're the largest private-label apparel manufacturer, so they make for large retailers [like] Gap (nyse: - - ), Limited, Dillard's (nyse: - - ), or branded apparel companies like Liz Claiborne (nyse: - - ) in the United States and some European companies. And they've done a phenomenal thing: They've set up this "supply-chain city," which is a massive facility, probably the largest apparel production facility in the world, intending to leverage a change in trade regulations that happened Jan.... (Forbes)
* Eco-chic moves from class to mass Apr 23, 2008
Another aspect separating many of these apparel companies and stores from traditional businesses is their philanthropy, often environment-related. Portland, Oregon-based Nau, which makes technical outdoor clothing from organic and recycled materials, gives 5 percent of each sale to a local charity. (Taipei Times, Taiwan -- World)
Organic Cotton Clothing Apr 12, 2008
Apparel companies are developing programs that either use 100 percent organically grown cotton, or blend small percentages of organic cotton with conventional cotton in their products. As a result of consumer interest, organic cotton fabric is increasingly being used in clothes of all kinds and styles for women and men, and especially in organic children's clothing and organic baby clothes. (Suite101.com)
Dave Hart, Jr. Selected as NACDA's 42nd Corbett Award Winner Mar 15, 2008
At Florida State, Hart generated lucrative revenue through the negotiation of contracts with multi-media rights holders, sports apparel companies and regional television partners. He also developed and led the implementation of a comprehensive 10 year Facilities Master Plan. (Nacda.com)
Asian companies eyeing US apparel buys this year Feb 15, 2008
Apparel companies from Hong Kong, China and Japan are currently looking to acquire US apparel brands this year, according to executive interviews conducted by mergermarket. Acquirers, either previously reported or cited in this article, could include listed Hong Kong-based entities Golife Concepts, Li & Fung, Lawsgroup, Bosideng International Holdings and Esprit Holdings, as well as listed Tokyo-based Fast Retailing, among others. (FT.com -- Markets)
Omitek, Inc Presents Techpackcentral.Com Affording Small to Medium Sized Companies Easy Access to a Fully Implemented Pdm (Product Data Management) Sy Jan 18, 2008
is a hosting service for Gerber Technology's WebPDM software, the leading browser-based product data management software that helps apparel companies and retailers facilitate communication and simplify the coordination of product development tasks ... com is a hosting service for Gerber Technology's WebPDM software, the leading browser-based product data management software that helps apparel companies and retailers facilitate communication and simplify the coordination of product development... (Yahoo News -- Press Releases)
Father and son Jan 7, 2008
The number of textile and apparel companies in the United States has been declining for decades. The few that remain have their clothes manufactured in foreign countries with low production costs. (The Augusta Chronicle)
Former MLB pitcher finds new career peddling athletic cup invention Dec 10, 2007
Sports apparel companies tinker with the standard protective cup every few years, adding gel padding and different kinds of ventilation, but Littell says he's never seen anything that looks like the Nutty Buddy. Bike Athletic, an Atlanta company that claims to be the originator of the modern jock strap, has taken a look at the Nutty Buddy. (North County Times)
Athletic wear maker Puma's 3Q profit rises 2.3 percent, shoe sales decline Nov 7, 2007
Puma, which is controlled by French fashion giant PPR SA, ranks behind Nike Inc. and Adidas AG among the world's biggest sporting goods and apparel companies. A decline in business in the United States in the third quarter is likely to last into next year, Puma Chief Executive Jochen Zeitz said in a conference call. (San Diego Union-Tribune -- Business)
IZOD Center to Be New Name of Meadowlands Arena Oct 5, 2007
Phillips-Van Heusen Corporation is one of the world's largest apparel companies. It owns and markets the Calvin Klein brand worldwide. (Yahoo! Wire -- Entertainment News)
Counting the carbon at the counter Sep 12, 2007
Timberland is trying to recruit other companies to develop a standardized method for verifying carbon emissions, and is discussing the issue with outdoor apparel companies including Nike, The North Face and REI.. Calculating carbon emissions is simple enough when the object is gasoline, said Jonathan Pershing, director of the climate program at the World Resources Institute, which developed a widely recognized method for companies to figure their overall greenhouse gas emissions. (International Herald Tribune -- Business)
For buyers, carbon labels tap into worry on warming Sep 11, 2007
But Timberland is trying to recruit other companies to develop a standardized method for verifying carbon emissions, and is discussing the issue with outdoor apparel companies including , The North Face, and REI.. Calculating carbon emissions is simple enough when you're talking about buying a tank of gas, said Jonathan Pershing, director of the climate program at the World Resources Institute, which developed a widely recognized method for companies to figure their overall greenhouse gas... (Boston Globe)
Mike Nolan scores one for the suit Sep 10, 2007
If Nolan does succeed, he will have accomplished this not only without the help of one of the largest apparel companies in the world but also in spite of it. Richard Torregrossa is the author of "Cary Grant: A Celebration of Style". (San Francisco Chronicle)
Virtual fashion Aug 7, 2007
There are even some real-life cosmetics and apparel companies that have sold virtual items in Second Life. They include big-name brands like Reebok, Aveda, American Apparel, Union Bay and Adidas, while companies like Lacoste and L'Or. (International Herald Tribune)
VF to buy Seven for All Mankind and lucy activewear for a combined $885 million Jul 27, 2007
The latest move by VF reflects the growing interest among apparel companies to focus on hot brands with big growth potential as they face a declining department store business and changing consumer tastes. Rival Liz Claiborne Inc. announced earlier this month that it's considering whether to sell, license or shut down 16 brands as it pegs its future on fewer but more powerful brands like Juicy Couture and Lucky Brand Jeans. (San Diego Union-Tribune -- Business)
VF Shopping Spree Jul 27, 2007
The move by VF reflects the growing interest among apparel companies in trendy brands with a bright future as they face a declining department store business and changing consumer tastes. Liz Claiborne and Jones Apparel Group both plan to shed brands and focus on a few, more powerful lines. (New York Post -- Business)
Why Do Seniors Dress So Badly? Jul 25, 2007
In 1969 Gap took its name from the distance between what apparel companies were selling and what young boomers wanted to buy. At the other end of the age spectrum today, boomers will eventually close the gap again. (SmartMoney)
Effigi aims high with expansion Jul 9, 2007
While most Canadian apparel companies are disappearing, a Montreal-based producer of mid-priced trendy fashions is mapping out an ambitious expansion with a fresh infusion of money from a group of private equity investors led by Genuity Capital Markets. Effigi Inc., which sells brands such as Tag and Gagou Tagou to Costco, Wal-Mart and other chains, makes a wide array of clothing displayed in shops within shops. (Globe and Mail)
Split Seams Over Theory Jun 26, 2007
At the time, a boom in mergers and acquisitions for apparel companies was just getting under way, leading some to suggest that Rosen and Tahari could have sold out for a higher price if they had waited. Rosen, who never did retire and continues to work for the company as head of its U.S. operations, has, in court papers, dismissed Tahari's allegations as "seller's remorse.". (New York Post -- Business)
Celebrity Entrepreneurs Jun 21, 2007
They often partner with established retailers or apparel companies, so the models-turned-designers have existing manufacturing and distribution channels. The companies, in turn, get the cachet of a bold-face name associated with their brand (see BusinessWeek. (BusinessWeek)
Mambo on block again Jun 1, 2007
Other potential bidders include Logo International, which recently acquired US surf brand O'Neill, Victoria-based Rip Curl and Quiksilver, private equity players, large multinational fashion companies and local listed apparel companies such as Just Group. An importer and manufacturer, Gazal also owns various brands including Bisley workwear, Midford schoolwear, and Lovable lingerie. (Sydney Morning Herald -- Business)
Clothing makers allege sex discrimination in U.S. tariffs Apr 30, 2007
For decades, apparel companies have grudgingly tolerated the peculiar disparities, writing them off as a vestige of smoke-filled, backroom trade negotiations. But now, several major apparel makers, like Steve Madden, Asics and Columbia Sportswear, are challenging the tariffs in lawsuits against the federal government that have broad implications for the clothing industry, not to mention the battle of the sexes. (International Herald Tribune -- Money Report)
SHOWING FIBER Apr 16, 2007
" Fleece softened the public resistance to recycled materials. Judith Dunbar, who oversees the environmental efforts of the plastics division at the American Chemistry Council, says recycling of all plastic bottles has grown from 480 million pounds in 1990 to more than 2.1 billion in 2005. She's done the math for 20-ounce bottles: 14 for an extra-large T-shirt, 63 for a sweater and 85 for the fiberfill in a sleeping bag. Organic is another fashion byword, and Nike is among the frontrunners as... (San Francisco Chronicle)
Of the Moment Mar 14, 2007
Apparel companies create fads all the time, with great success. Most important, dont assume a fad is business-worthy just because you have a good feeling about it. (MSNBC -- Business)
More than a dozen retailers part of Westfield Brandon expansion Mar 2, 2007
The new space is part of the mall's $60 million expansion and houses 13 retailers, including: apparel companies , Cache, , Swim 'N Sport and the newly relocated Bebe; cosmetics and accessories retailers , Swarovski, Fossil and Solstice Sunglass Boutique; shoe stores Clarks, The and the relocated Bakers; and specialty tea seller Teavana. Additionally, Westfield Brandon said it has five retailers coming in this spring, including Lucky Brand Jeans, a boutique White House|Black Market, , Abercrombie... (Tampa Bay Business Journal, FL)
Bright future in store for Cheetah Jan 29, 2007
Cheetah has remained one of the more profitable apparel companies on the local bourse by focusing on its strengths. The group's modus operandi of outsourcing its manufacturing activities has enabled it to focus on product design and brand building. (The Star Online, Malaysia -- Business)
Surf's up at local convention Jan 26, 2007
Another company let guests shoot pool in a booth that resembled a local pub. Models showed off bikinis on makeshift runways at several booths for apparel companies. But companies that sold surfing and other "extreme" sports equipment weren't the only ones promoting healthy lifestyles. (North County Times)
Wheel A Deal Dinner Jan 15, 2007
When the chief executives of some of the major retail and apparel companies gather tonight at the Harmonie Club, the talk will be of mergers and acquisitions and licensing deals, not hemlines. "By going to the dinner, you hear things that you might not otherwise hear," said Claudio Del Vecchio, the CEO of Retail Brand Alliance, which owns Brooks Brothers. (New York Post -- Business)
Apparel Stocks Are Looking Sharp Dec 13, 2006
Driscoll expects apparel companies to continue to improve sourcing and efficiencies, broaden product offerings, and target unfilled niches through a mix of acquisitions, licensing, and brand extensions ... Apparel companies will likely continue to reposition mature lines to lower price points and/or create new mid-priced lines specifically for discounters and mass merchandisers. (BusinessWeek)
Shoes...shoes...shoes...everybody likes to buy shoes Nov 13, 2006
John Shanley, senior athletic and footwear analyst for Susquehanna International Group, says women's fashion footwear is the most robust part of the shoe market, but also questions how much success apparel companies can have in what he describes as a complex and challenging industry. Shoe specialty chains such as DSW and Famous Footwear have recently been successful, he said, because many women enjoy the self-service model, and because the closure of department stores such as Filene's has... (Boston Globe)
RETAILERS NEVER CEASE EFFORTS IN HIP CATEGORY Nov 13, 2006
As a result, apparel companies are trying to show their own unique selves by offering designer brands exclusive to their stores, along with their own private labels. For example, JCPenney's link with beauty retailer Sephora has helped the retailer attract younger customers who have spending power, Dotzour said. (Tyler Morning Telegraph, TX)
Going 'colorway'? Oct 29, 2006
ADVERTISEMENT Rickey Kim, creative director of online magazine Riottt who works as a fashion consultant for urban apparel companies, refers to the colorway as "the 'Fresh Prince of Bel-Air' look.". "It's all about that repeating textile pattern," Kim said. (Los Angeles Times)
Niagara outlets mall gets new name, five new tenants Oct 24, 2006
Whelan is keeping their identities under her hat, but said they are national apparel companies with well-known names. The mall has been repainted and some strip mall-type stores are being moved outside the center, Whelan said. (Buffalo News)
Just don't do it Oct 16, 2006
The tendency of auditors, who rely on the continued patronage of the apparel manufacturers, to tone down bad news for their clients isn't shocking to us any more, but it should be more than enough reason for Princeton to endorse a transparent monitoring process which isn't funded by the apparel companies themselves. Membership in the WRC would cost Princeton one percent of its licensing revenues and would be capped at $50,000 per year. (The Daily Princetonian, NJ)
Commentary: Fashion's New Fast Lane Sep 21, 2006
Meanwhile, other U.S. apparel companies are taking the threat seriously and infusing "pseudo-fast fashion" into their business models. Earlier this year, Target (nyse: - - ) launched its Go International series, limited-edition collections by up-and-coming apparel designers that are available for only 90 days. (Forbes)
Retailers target twentysomethings Sep 11, 2006
Glut of consumer-minded teens has apparel companies thinking ahead By Stephanie Kang The Wall Street Journal Originally published September 11, 2006 Nearly two decades ago, toddlers wore babyGap's signature bodysuit ... Apparel companies are getting ready for the glut of people in their 20s by opening new stores with merchandise that appeals to young adults ... That means teen apparel companies are following twentysomethings to continue the growth. (SunSpot.net)
Quite the look Sep 9, 2006
"In June 2004, Fresno State tried to get in the picture and partnered with Nike for all of the university's athletic apparel.Younger said Fresno State has been asked by apparel companies to redesign its football uniforms "several times" during Hill's 10 years.Hill has declined.Oregon athletic director Bill Moos, meanwhile, said the university will continue to sport new looks even amid media and fan criticism. Oregon is expected to work on another redesign in two years and unveil a new look about... (Fresno Bee)
India swops bling for basics Sep 4, 2006
The move is in keeping with a growing trend among apparel companies to team up with designers who until now ran their own boutique stores and had limited production capacity. "The domestic market is huge. These chain stores give us an opportunity to concentrate only on the creative part and not have to look after the supply chain," said Gandhi, whose collection will be in Wills stores next month. (iAfrica.com)
Battle of the brands Aug 29, 2006
Apparel companies' relationships with retailers are important to both sides' bottom lines ... The apparel companies negotiate the size and placement of their in-store displays or departments ... Apparel companies often prefer to have all of their line grouped together rather than to have a department store put their jeans with other makers' jeans and their sweaters with other makers' sweaters, says Butler. (USA Today -- Money)
Web shopping: So personal Aug 21, 2006
While shopping for clothes and shoes online is not new, representing nearly $14 billion in annual sales, the more sophisticated sizing metrics offered by the latest wave of Internet apparel companies and websites is a selling point that may lure the busy, fed-up or hard-to-fit shopper ... Even though these online apparel companies will still have to contend with the shoppers who prefer to see and touch their garments before purchasing, the success and value of websites like MyShape and Zafu will... (USA Today -- Tech)
Online design Aug 6, 2006
" Launched last summer, "Dress by Design," allows customers to design their own dress - click on the style you want, the color, the fabric. Then total up the price and wait for your dress to show up in the mail. It's easy, and fun. It's also part of a huge online do-it-yourself fashion trend that allows consumers to design their apparel. And it doesn't stop at dresses. Handbags, jewelry, T-shirts - many online apparel companies are putting their customers in the driver's seat - with good reason,... (Buffalo News -- Arts)
U.S. Fashion's Passage to India Jul 22, 2006
Such acquisitions also help Indian textile and apparel companies better compete with Chinese rivals. China today controls 30% of the world apparel trade. (MSNBC -- Business)
Sprint Users Can Get Primped Jul 18, 2006
Brands that have initially signed on are the apparel companies Dollhouse and Union Bay--each reflective of the show's target 12-24 year-old audience. GoTV Networks currently offers 12 premium made-for mobile content channels, including as the music-heavy Hip Hop Official, which are sold directly to consumer through subscriptions through various carriers. (MediaWeek.com)
