Buying British back in fashion
British clothing retailers are apparently becoming more interested in making more of their ranges in the UK.
According to The Express, Sir Philip Green, owner of the Arcadia Group that includes Topshop, Miss Selfridge and Dorothy Perkins, said: “We are looking to do more here and are developing in Britain where we can.” Other retailers apparently trying this approach are John Lewis, J D Sports and Asos.
The report said ‘made in Britain’ is becoming trendy again as retailers react to rising labour costs in China.
There’s certainly a revival of buying domestically produced goods, there’s even a site to help direct you to British products and the UK isn’t alone in taking this approach. But for fashion businesses there’s another good reason for doing so.
As Ben Lewis, chief executive of River Island, said: “It has allowed us to get new fashion to our customers much quicker.” As he points out, current tough trading conditions mean it’s important to have a short line of supply.
Have you made changes to the source of your supply for similar reasons?
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Many years ago I have made up my mind about two feminine brands Rigby & Peller ( made in Britain) and Wolford ( made in Austria) and so far there is no competition for me. Both brands are relatively expensive to those ‘made in China’ but the service, quality, and bespoke feeling to it is second to none. Can this win a customer? I sincerely hope so.
I have been sourcing and manufacturing in the UK since I launched my business in 2005. I think it’s important to support businesses around you and encourage growth within the UK. I have also had very positive feedback from my customers who appreciate the ethics behind my business. It’s good to hear that larger companies such as Arcadia are also helping promote “Made in Britain” on the high street.