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Wholesalers Tap into European Market

By FashionUnited

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It hasn't been a particular good season for wholesalers and distributing agents. Accounts across Europe have felt the economic duress and many stores have to date not been able to pay for their Spring/Summer deliveries, leaving London's fashion agents with uncompromising financial burdens.

While the UK market seems healthier than its German counterparts, for example, many wholesale agents are looking to branch out with a more global perspective. Especially in the top segment of the market, there is money to be made outside the UK. London is well known for its edge on fashion, and people flock from all over the world to be inspired by our forward-thinking industry. Buyers however, prefer to go to Milan, Paris and New York, where in a week's time you will be able to browse through everything from Marc Jacobs and Prada, to new and obscure collections that have only recently been launched. Add to that the difference in price between pound and euro, and you begin to understand why London is shunned.

It makes sense therefore that UK agents are looking toward global distribution. Some are setting up sister showrooms in Milan and Paris, whilst others consult their European wisdom to US giants. Having your collection ready for wholesale in the major fashion capitals gives important European independents a chance to browse and buy something they would not ordinarily have seen. It is one thing for a designer to be stocked in Selfridges and Harvey Nichols, but add to that some of the best European stores, such as Maria Luisa, Collette, Reflections and Louis, and the horizon suddenly seems a lot brighter and more secure.

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