2010 in Review

In a year filled with economic challenges, many sectors of the California apparel and textile industry found opportunities for growth.

Denim makers saw cotton prices skyrocket and chemical giant Dow shutter its XLA stretch-fiber division, while J Brand sold a 60 percent stake in the premium-denim brand for $85 million.

On the retail front, there were closures at Hot Topic and Bebe’s PH8 division and large-scale development in Santa Monica, Malibu and Valencia. Meanwhile, retailers watched and waited as lawmakers addressed the rising cost of credit card swipe fees.

And at the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, the recovering economy meant more traffic and opportunities to expand.

In this issue, the editors of California Apparel News review some of the key stories from 2010.

For full coverage:

Looking Back on the Denim Market

Trade Takes a Turn for the Better

Retail Retrospective

Brands Ramp Up Social Media