Resilience and innovation key for independent fashion retail in the post-pandemic era

It’s been over four years since the global pandemic began, a period that has fundamentally reshaped our lives. Since then we’ve gone on to redefine our workplaces, rethink our living spaces, and the importance of mental health. Across the world, there has been a shift towards intentional living, which has sparked entrepreneurial innovation and moved consumers towards value-based purchasing. At the time, many feared that the pandemic would undermine independent retail the most, as online shopping soared during lockdown. Although many indie retailers across the United States were negatively impacted during the time, today, independent retail in the US continues to demonstrate resilience amid the rise of online commerce, thriving through human connection, discovery, and agility. Many local neighborhood stores have adapted and are experiencing a robust recovery, indicating a promising future for these vital community businesses. With fashion indie retailers remaining highly optimistic for the future, we speak with Kerry Bannigan, managing director and president of the board at PVBLIC Foundation, who has dedicated her career to leading global fashion and media initiatives that drive transformative social, economic, and environmental change. Here she shares her insights on the state of independent retail in the US, trends and advice to those who may be struggling to thrive in today’s shifting economic landscape.