NTWRK Hires Colby Black of Urban Outfitters
RETAIL
NTWRK, a Los Angeles-headquartered mobile-first video-shopping platform, has aimed to be a pioneer in digital commerce since launching in 2018. It announced on Jan. 13 that it had hired Colby Black, an executive from Urban Outfitters, to be its first chief merchandising officer.
After 81 Years Selling Hat Supplies, Unique DTLA Shop May Close
Retail
The California Millinery Supply Co., located at 721 S. Spring St. in downtown Los Angeles’ Fashion District, sells hat-making supplies and accessories. For decades, film, television and theater productions, fashion designers and craftspeople have purchased hat frames, feathers, ribbons and veiling to make period headwear as well as new styles.
2020 Holiday Sales Beat NRF Forecasts
Retail
The National Retail Federation reported on Jan. 15 that business for the 2020 holiday season was surprisingly strong. Sales grew 8.3 percent to $789.4 billion, beating the prominent trade group’s forecast of 3.6 percent to 5.2 percent growth.
Surf Expo Returns to Orlando With First On-site Event in a Year
Surf Expo Returns
Returning to its home at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Fla., Surf Expo, the major trade show for the water-sports and beach-lifestyle categories, was held Jan. 6–8. While the Emerald Expositions–owned Surf Expo relied on its digital edition Sept. 16–18, Surf Expo Connect, many in the industry felt it was time to return to the trade-show floor.
A Source of Inspiration for 2021 at Virtual Texworld and Apparel Sourcing
Trade Shows
With its first big show of 2021 occurring virtually Jan. 12–14, Messe Frankfurt Fashion and Apparel Show Director, Jennifer Bacon said, “We were extremely pleased with both the exhibitor and attendee participation. It was very similar to our premier edition this past July. We are excited to continue serving the textile-sourcing community through our virtual platform as we look forward to returning to face-to-face events.”
The Show Must Go On ... Virtually
Design Debut
Following the postponement of the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising’s Spring 2020 FIDM Debut, selected emerging student designers showcased their creations during a Dec. 10 virtual runway presentation.
At CMC Uploaded, Dan Jablons of Retail Smart Guys Discusses Plans for 2021
Retail
Dan Jablons moonlights as an actor and appeared on the television show “Curb Your Enthusiasm” as the lawyer for comedian Larry David. But for more than 15 years he has run the Los Angeles–headquartered consultancy Retail Smart Guys.
Biden Proposes New COVID-19 Lifelines
Finance
Before becoming the 46th United States president, Joe Biden unveiled the American Rescue Plan on Jan. 14, a proposed $1.9-trillion program that his incoming administration said will put the U.S. economy back on its feet after 10 months of the COVID-19 pandemic.
With Digital Commerce Surging, Social Media Looks for Its Place in Retail
Technology
Social media has minted its own internet celebrities, but many entrepreneurs are trying to judge whether platforms such as Instagram and Facebook will make fortunes for retailers.
Buyers and Brands Work Together During L.A. Market Week to Protect Businesses
Trade Shows
As Los Angeles County continued to grapple with surging COVID-19 numbers, apparel businesses worked together to fortify their operations. During L.A. Market Week, which was held Jan. 10–14 in downtown Los Angeles, showrooms welcomed buyers to view lines in person while they also afforded the option of online meetings via Zoom.
Liverpool Los Angeles Unveils Hope Chest
HOPE IN FASHION
Homelessness is one of California’s most-critical issues. Fashion-lifestyle brand Liverpool Los Angeles has developed a charitable initiative, Hope Chest, where proceeds from Liverpool sales will be donated to the non-profit Downtown's Women's Center.
Etnies at 35
SKATEWEAR
Thirty-five years ago, Pierre-Andre Senizergues was a French skateboarder looking for a sneaker that was going to be durable, while feeling good and looking good. When he couldn’t find one, he vowed to make his own.
Maison Margiela Makes Sneaker With Reebok
FASHION
The split-toe Tabi shoe has been one of the signatures of the Maison Margiela fashion house. But this unique style will be getting a sportier look.
IBM Blockchain Tracks Supply Chain for Covalent’s AirCarbon Products
SUSTAINABILITY
From its basic stages to the stockroom, Covalent AirCarbon material from Huntington Beach, Calif.’s, Newlight Technologies is now traceable along the supply chain using IBM Blockchain.
Vans' 12th Custom Culture Competition Launches
EVENTS
Now in its 12th installment, the Vans Custom Culture 2021 event launched recently, affording an opportunity for students to work with the skate and action-sports brand and win prize money to benefit their schools' art programs.
Artistic Milliners Expands With Denim-Laundry Acquisition
Artistic L.A.
Global denim firm Artistic Milliners announced Jan. 12 its acquisition of a Los Angeles wash-and-finish factory launched under the name Star Fades International as the company invests in design and production innovations.
Shopify Shares Surge 177.6 % During 2020
E-COMMERCE
One of the digital companies that reported a robust performance during holiday 2020 was multichannel e-transaction focused platform Shopify.
M.Fredric Puts Bricks-and-Mortar Stores on Temporary Hiatus Due To Pandemic
RETAIL
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to spike in Los Angeles County, contemporary chain M.Fredric announced Jan. 12 that it would temporarily close its eight physical stores until the retailer’s owners deem it safe to reopen.
LA Gear Announces a New Chapter With Alexander-John
FASHION
LA Gear was one of the most-popular sneaker brands of the 1980s and 1990s. Decades later, LA Gear is still in the footwear business. On Jan. 12, the Los Angeles-headquartered brand announced a new creative director.
