TIPS FOR DESIGNERS: WHY NOW IS A GOOD TIME TO RESEARCH NEW PRODUCTION OPTIONS?

One challenge emerging brands face is finding good, quality factories ready and willing to produce a small quantity of product at a reasonable price. Factories will always give priority to big brands, which produce big quantities. Emerging brands find themselves with very little bargaining power against bigger, established brands. Often, emerging brands are not given good production terms nor are they given flexibility regarding when to produce their lines. 

Starting in March 2020, the COVID19 crisis has forced numerous European and US stores to close, and online sales have decreased dramatically due to an increase in unemployment and a general feeling of uncertainty. Because of this situation a lot of big brands will have their cash flow disrupted and won’t be able to pay for the FW20/21 production. As a consequence they might have to completely cancel the Fall/Winter season. 

 It is hard for factories to quickly downsize, meaning they will find themselves in an under-production situation and will be willing to produce for new and emerging brands. 

 However, once the situation improves, many established companies will seek out manufacturers, or return to their established ones. Now is the time for emerging brands to research potential new manufacturers. When approaching potential manufacturers, it is crucial for emerging brands to have a convincing brand and product pitch. We can help with this. 

Subscribe to our newsletter to receive your free brand evaluation questionnaire or book an initial free consultation with our expert to discuss your brand pitch and options for manufacturing: https://www.couture-consultancy.com/contact.

Written by: Katja Noschis Delaloye

Edited by: Kara Van Cleaf