Nina Hajikhanian

With far more demand than supply, Hermès #Birkin bags flip economics on its head by having a resale value of ~2x the original sales price. Of course, that’s only if you can get one. Demand is so high that when a shipment of Birkins arrive to a store, they are “assigned to individual sales associates,” who must make a case for why their client “deserves a Birkin and get the store manager’s approval.” Yet another reason why I love the #fashion industry. https://lnkd.in/emtwPUnt

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Curious about the sustainability of recycled plastic shoes? Check out this researched article on my blog by Peahen Studio contributor Jackie Warehime. It features insights on the pros and cons, plus six brands we co-sign. Dive into the real impact of your fashion choices. Read it > https://lnkd.in/d2gFkmFR

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What Can Fashion Learn from AllBirds' Struggles? AllBirds, a trailblazer in sustainable direct-to-consumer footwear, is navigating challenging times. Last week, the Nasdaq Stock Market notified the brand of non-compliance with listing rules after its share price fell below $1 for 30 consecutive days. It's tough seeing a purpose-led brand struggle, but it offers key lessons for startups: 1. Product Innovation is Key: Product innovation and design are essential. Despite the push for circular fashion, a product that fails to attract will hinder a brand. AllBirds has struggled to refresh its offerings, making it challenging to compete in the sustainable footwear market. 2. IPO Timing Matters: An early IPO can bring scrutiny and pressure, leading to decisions that may not align with consumer expectations or brand ethos. This can distract from focusing on core brand and product development. 3. Agile Marketing is Essential: Adapting marketing strategies to match changing consumer behaviors is crucial. Failing to engage with the evolving digital marketing landscape can lead to declines in all consumer KPIs. Saying that; I'm still optimistic that AllBirds with new leadership in place, will rebound and emerge stronger. 🙏🏾

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Rich media isn't just the future; it's the present. In the last two decades, we've seen screen sizes shrink dramatically, and the mobile-first approach has become non-negotiable. Today, your retail business is judged on a 6 to 7-inch screen where every pixel counts. Remember, a well-crafted image or video speaks volumes—literally a thousand words. This translates directly to big sales because quite simply the picture(s)/videos sells. Poor pictures = poor sales. I've witnessed the transformative power of top-tier visual content first-hand. At Shuperb Footwear, we recognized early on the necessity of investing in high-quality photography equipment and setting up a dedicated studio. This foresight set us apart when many were (and still are) relying on basic supplier-provided images. With the improvement of internet speeds post-2010, we ventured into video production. Here's a glimpse at our very first video production, showcasing our growth despite initial challenges with sound quality: https://lnkd.in/gSM73C4H Today, the advancements in technology and internet capabilities mean that brands can present their products seamlessly, with no lag or long load times— a critical factor in keeping potential customers engaged. Introducing Elevate Agency & Studios — a culmination of over two decades of e-commerce expertise, now crystallized into a pioneering visual content creation studio. For my business, Shuperb, the team at Elevate Agency & Studios has crafted outstanding visual assets that have significantly boosted our online presence. Their skill in creating compelling, attention-grabbing content is unmatched. Whether you're launching a new venture or looking to enhance your established brand, a conversation with Katie Flintham or Arshad I. at Elevate could be the game-changer you need. Elevate specialises in producing dynamic assets for fashion, apparel, and footwear, ranging from crisp still shots to fully styled lifestyle photoshoots and innovative 365-degree product gifs. Don’t wait until it's too late to "elevate" your brand (sorry, had to get that one in!). Ready to make an impact? Contact them for a trial shoot.

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Dear Bjorn Gulden, in life as in retail many things are inexplicable. However, the German Football Federation's recent decision to terminate their partnership with adidas and move to Nike as their new kit supplier from 2027 is not one of them. Nike saw an opportunity to offer improved terms to the federation and outbid their rival amidst recent challenges. It's no surprise that the DFB jumped at the chance to accept such an offer, given the current economic situation and the recent performance of their team on the international soccer scene. On the other hand, Adidas has faced some inexplicable controversies in their own turf, including the recent debacle of the stylized font of the number '4' on the jerseys, reminiscent of the lightning-bolt symbols used by Nazi SS units in WWII. Additionally, there has been ambiguity surrounding the ongoing sales of Yeezy's leftover inventory in global markets. It's clear that Nike's conquesting tactics have paid off with this new partnership, providing a significant boost to their PR. As for Adidas, it seems they have some work to do to maintain their position in the market. #sportswear #fashion #retail #sportsmarketing #soccer #PR #linkedinpostsbymariopace #partnerships Read more about this story here: https://lnkd.in/etx3PxFn

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Retail Today / Retail Renaissance: China’s E-commerce Giant SHEIN, has its sights on Amazon. Last week it was the battle between Walmart and Amazon, this week it’s SHEIN. #SHIEN #amazon #walmart The classic “King of the Hill”, SHEIN’s new merchandise strategies to expand beyond Fast-Fashion. In which they dominate the U.S. market share in fashion. #fastfashion SHIEN’s new merchandise assortment will include #brands, #toys, #skincare, etc.. #merchandising While Amazon continues to dominate the U.S. E-commerce market with a 38% share. Unbelievable! #marketshare #ecommerce. Amazon’s advantage right now is #speed, #delivery, #logistics. We are just seeing the beginning of this battle. #retail #retailtrends #retailindustry #shoppingexperience #TopRetailExpert

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The next couple of years are going to be challenging for retailers. It’s a bit of a rollercoaster, and I genuinely believe this turbulent ride has been one of the most significant contributors to the closure of many brands. Traditional retailers are feeling the strain, and it’s understandable. The leaders are exhausted! To move the market forward, we need to add a mix of fresher breed of C-suite leaders. My advice to boards: establish an advisory committee to bring fresh perspectives if you aren’t ready to let go of the reins. But if your C-suite and board have remained unchanged for over a decade, it’s time to reassess. What worked then won’t necessarily work now. Another critical piece: Sustainability and eco-friendliness. While many brands tout these as core values, they often come with a higher price tag compared to fast fashion. Customer surveys may rank sustainability as a top priority, but the data tells a more complex story. Both need careful consideration. I recognised this 2 years ago in the UK…. People do not have much disposable income - Primark was the busiest shop on the high street. These concepts need to become more tactical and relatable. I still believe in the resilience of retail and brands. However, I empathise with those struggling to adapt to a more agile and unpredictable business landscape.

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🌍 Why You Should Reconsider Buying from Shein: Environmental Concerns Among the most concerning findings in the recent report from Stand.earth. is that fast-fashion giant Shein, which earned a 2.5/100 score, increased its absolute emissions by nearly 50 percent in just one year – now emitting more pollution annually than the nation of Paraguay. Beneath the surface of Shein's low prices and trendy clothing lies significant environmental concerns: - High Carbon Footprint: The fast fashion industry, including brands like Shein, relies on rapid production cycles and global shipping, contributing to climate change. - Resource Intensity: Producing vast quantities of cheap clothing requires extensive use of water, energy, and raw materials, unsustainable for our planet. - Waste Generation: Fast fashion encourages a disposable culture, leading to increased textile waste and pollution. - Chemical Usage: The chemically intensive processes in fast fashion release harmful substances into waterways and soil, impacting ecosystems and communities. - Lack of Transparency: Shein's supply chain lacks transparency, hindering verification of their environmental practices. Choosing where to spend our money is a powerful act. By opting for brands committed to sustainability and ethical practices, we can drive positive change and help protect our planet for future generations. #SustainableFashion #EcoFriendly #FastFashion #ClimateChange #EthicalConsumerism #EnvironmentallyConscious

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I am so grateful for the growing community of like-minded people building around Wild & Free and our purpose which is about getting people outdoors benefiting from nature's medicine to proactively support their mental health. Not all of us are seeking high-performance sports and activities and that's okay, I am one of those people. More often you tell me that you want to get outdoors more consistently as a simple addition to your life, whether that's daily walking or running, to try new things that make you feel more alive and get you out of your head like swimming or hiking, and to find a community with shared beliefs to hang out with. Each month, I have been writing a wellness roundup and sending out to our community, the wild tribe, my thoughts and the things that i am working on for my own well-being, the things I am listening to and reading, and the practices that I am integrating into my own life. I find that many of us are seeking out natural and fulfilling ways to counterbalance stress, to feel more alive and connected, and if together we can share those feelings of overwhelm and what is working for us, that helps us all to feel that we belong more and makes our feelings more validated. Have you joined the Wild Tribe yet? If you would like to join the Wild Tribe newsletter, I can promise you only value that will enhance your life. You can join up via the link below, and I will start to pop key elements from my wellness roundup here on Linkedin as a newsletter with the hope that it inspires or helps even one of you. #wellbeing #founderstories #communitybuilding https://lnkd.in/eQ4BEesv

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Well said! Spot on, we can learn a lot from our grandparents on the circular economy as we all had a quilt of repurposed materials. Great thought and insight as usual, Steve. #circulareconomy #reuse #repurpose #upcycling

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Yes but how do #WE change the narrative before another brand goes under. On the one hand customers are making it clear there is zero room for overconsumption, but on the other hand talend designers who create consciously should be recognized, rewarded and supported. As a consultant, in this game for nearly 15 years. I can identify 3 points that seem to lead to designer disaster. 1. Over-reliance on wholesale: Brands need to take a leaf out of the Kering Book, and double down on DTC, engage with customers directly and do not expect retailers to do it for you. 2. Price Positioning: recognize the temperature and adjust quickly to customer spending. But build in enough margins to hedge currency fluctuations 3. Inventory and Production: managing inventory and being wise about production will now be crucial to every brand’s ability to survive the retail Hunger Games! Best of luck brands and may it ever be in your favour! #Hungergames #retailtips #branddevelopment #brandadministration #matches #wearecoco #brandconsultancy

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Have you watched Shitthropocene by Patagonia? If not, you are going to want to. An irreverent satire that serves as a deep, thoughtful, and scary reminder of how we are turning our Resources to Rubbish. We have a choice to make: continue buying into "cheap" consumerism or lean into our extraordinary adaptive and problem-solving capabilities to rescue ourselves from the environmental crisis. Remember to buy only what you need, buy things that last, embrace the circular economy, reuse, recycle, and stop adding to the landfill. My favorite part of the film is how it ends with a powerful reminder, "The things that correlate with what we call happiness in every study of this topic, are relationships and a sense of purpose." Patagonia is a truly exemplary brand, and its vision and purpose permeate every part of the enterprise. A shout out to those in my network Stephanie Benedetto, Satyajit Hange, Kanishka Chatterjee (KC) doing their part to build a sustainable future.

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Interesting news about the Fashion ReModel initiative! Convened by Ellen MacArthur Foundation, companies like H&M Group, Primark and Zalando are trialing business models which decouple revenue from the production of new garments. These include resale, repair, rental, upcycling and garment maintenance or customization. Fashion Remodel is a brilliant example of leaving competition behind in favor of collaboration and I’m looking forward to seeing how this initiative unfolds. Digital product passports will be a game-changer for resale, repair and upcycling work. Once you have a digital label on a garment, you can explain to customers where and how to get it recycled. The digital label also helps recyclers validate materials and fiber content, which will create greater efficiency in the sorting and recycling process. #Sustainability #CircularEconomy #FashionReModel #BusinessInnovation

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Sustainability isn't just a buzzword; it's a necessity, particularly in the fast-paced world of fashion retail. I'm witnessing a seismic shift as retailers reimagine fashion through the lens of environmental responsibility. It's about more than just swapping materials for eco-friendly alternatives; it's a complete overhaul of the ethos driving the industry. I'm particularly intrigued by the rise of 'slow fashion', a trend prioritising quality and longevity over the fleeting appeal of 'fast fashion'. Retailers are now crafting pieces to last, reducing the need for constant consumption. The increasing use of recycled materials is another stride towards sustainability. It's inspiring to see iconic brands repurpose fabrics, turning what was once waste into high fashion. Technology, too, plays a vital role. From 3D design software that reduces the need for physical samples to AI that predicts trends and optimizes inventory, retailers are cutting waste in creative and innovative ways. The growth of the second-hand market also speaks volumes. Luxury consignment is no longer niche—it's mainstream, providing an upscale experience while promoting the reuse of garments. Moreover, it's not just about what we sell but how we sell it. Reducing packaging, enhancing recycling programs, and even educating consumers on garment care to extend the life cycle of clothes are now part of the job. Retailers who aren't riding this green wave will struggle to stay afloat. This is a challenge, but one well worth facing as we move to balance consumer desires with the health of our planet. #SustainableFashion #EcoFashion #RetailTrends

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The state of the Industry has obviously changed post pandemic. So has the demographic of toy consumers. 3 years ago when I entered the toy space, I not only heard No like it was going out of style, or had companies pretend to be interested in working with me while pilfering my ideas to apply to their products already on the market, yes you read that right, but I kept being told I had to have an outrageous following before they'd have a conversation. Do I agree that manufacturing is expensive? Absolutely. Do I think that a brand owner should have done the work necessary to establish their brand? You bet! Do I think you need 10s of thousands of followers on socials to have a successful brand? Heck No! I feel like this ideal is archaic. I say this as someone who had over 500 followers on fb during our first plush launch and sold 1,500 of the 2,000 made thru just that dtc sales channel. No paid marketing. No mass market exposure and less followers than units sold. Because I have experienced this first hand is why as I launch a new business venture I have the confidence to work with new AND established brands. Im confident in my decades of experience and knowledge in this area. We all start somewhere. And just because the audience for the Mattels of the world today, were not present when they started, these magnates also experienced the same thing all us noobs are now. Do not let those who will never be invested or have interest in your brand, make you think you're not enough. Show them who you are and watch your brand grow!

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Yesterday I presented at the UK Sport launch of their Apparel Sustainability Baseline report on the Environmental Impact of Sportswear in High Performance Sport. Until recently the impacts of apparel in professional sport have gone under the radar, the focus has been on fan travel, improving stadiums and player transport. However apparel often forms a significant (and in some cases majority) share of emissions. 🌍The textiles industry is responsible for the 4th highest negative impact on environment and climate change. 🌊The third largest negative impact for water and land use. 🚛Every second a truckload of textiles is incinerated or sent to landfill. On World Environment Day I think it’s important we acknowledge the impact apparel has within sports and educate players, clubs and those responsible for procurement on the realities of its impact. If you are working in sport and want to understand more about this topic, I’m collaborating with the Oracle of teamwear Louise Pullan to really change the game to improve practices in sport and teamwear. (Check out 5THREAD podcast and you will understand why Lou has this title). Also if you want a 101 on circularity in the apparel industry in 20 minutes or less let me know. Thanks to Sara Kassam for pioneering and raising awareness of this area within sports. #sports #sportswear #worldenviromentday

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The new Ellen MacArthur Foundation report on the need for mandatory EPR policy for textiles fully supports what we see at Decathlon in terms of circular business models demonstrating strong growth. Worth a read! We need coherent, harmonised EPR schemes to ensure we can scale textile recycling, create more closed loops and ultimately keep materials in usage for longer (like our first fully textile-to-textile t-shirt 😎). #circularity #EPR #sustainability #textiles https://lnkd.in/e8qu3CtT

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Here's the headlines from Sustainable Fashion this week ⬇ 1) Last week John Lewis & Partners announced they have teamed up with the University of Exeter to develop a framework and strategy for circular designed products, created in line with the circular design toolkit from WRAP. The 20 piece collection includes nightwear and bedding, and supports the retailers commitment that 100% of new 'own-brand' products are to be designed with circularity in mind by 2028. 2) In material news, US workwear brand Carhartt has joined the US Cotton Trust Protocol and Better Cotton in a move towards more responsibly sourced cotton. 3) Biotech specialist CARBIOS has struck a deal with Chinese textile group Zhink Group, to build a bio-recycling plant in China. The plant will use Carbios technology which enables recycling of PET plastic and textile waste into virgin-like products, with the aim of achieving true circularity. 4) Italian synthetic yarn manufacturer Fulgar has launched a new bio-based Nylon (branded as Q-Geo) , which is derived partially from corn-waste. 5) Australian recycling company Samsara Eco, who work with lululemon, has raised AUS $100 million ($65m) in latest funding. The funds will be used to scale-up global recycling capabilities using their enzyme technology to recycle apparel waste, diverting millions of tonnes of plastics away from landfill and incineration. 6) At last weeks The Sustainable Angle Future Fabrics Expo, UK bio-based start up 3D Bio-Tissues (powered by BSF Enterprise) launched their high quality 100% ethical-lab grown leather sample. The leather is grown without harming animals, and can still be treated using traditional methods, and meets the growing demand for alternative leather products. 7) As part of their 'Plan A - Another Life' Campaign - Marks and Spencer have announced a clothing repair service in partnership with SOJO. According to M&S, only 10% of the population feel confident enough to repair clothing themselves, and 60% of consumers want retailers to offer more services which support them to live a more circular life. 8) This week Barbour launched their rental service in partnership with Oxfam at Glastonbury, offering festival goers the opportunity to rent pre-loved, upcycled wax jackets for £45 for the duration of the event. Love the concept, intrigued to know if they all get returned after the rental period 🤔 9) Last week eBay announced the launch of 'Rocket Man Resale' featuring hundreds of items from Elton John's wardrobe! All proceeds will go to the Elton John AIDS Foundation. 10) The latest on the SHEIN - UK human rights group Stop Uyghur Genocide has launched a legal campaign to stop the flotation on the London Stock Exchange (potentially worth £50 billion), although paperwork for a potential London IPO has been filed by Shein 🤮 Have a great week Lydia SPONSORED BY Recomme.co Making circularity work for you https://www.recomme.co/ Image: Barbour

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