Shanghai shopping malls have started shelving fall clothing one month earlier as compared to last year. Even some fur coats have been seen in counters. Prices of these increased more than 50 to 80 percent over the previous year.
Unlike in the past, when unsold summer clothes remained on racks even after the hot season had passed, this year, malls are stocking up only new and trendy collection. Increased price of raw material is influencing finished mid- and low-end clothing prices.
Compared to previous years, retail prices of clothing material for fall garments has increased to 400 to 500 yuan per piece, compared to the earlier 200 to 300 yuan. In addition, increased competition has forced major brands to make up losses from sales decline by pushing up prices.
Experts believe that in clothing industry, dealing in mid and low end apparel is beneficial as it has the largest consumer group as well as sales volume. However, profits are relatively small unlike in luxury garments.
A survey shows that by 2012, the average price of women's outfit, accounting for the largest share of apparel market, is expected to rise by 4.7 percent.
However, in the past four years, rate of women's apparel fell by 9.4 percent. The report said that the main reason behind this drop was retailers' decision to shift production to low-cost countries.
Unlike in the past, when unsold summer clothes remained on racks even after the hot season had passed, this year, malls are stocking up only new and trendy collection. Increased price of raw material is influencing finished mid- and low-end clothing prices.
Compared to previous years, retail prices of clothing material for fall garments has increased to 400 to 500 yuan per piece, compared to the earlier 200 to 300 yuan. In addition, increased competition has forced major brands to make up losses from sales decline by pushing up prices.
Experts believe that in clothing industry, dealing in mid and low end apparel is beneficial as it has the largest consumer group as well as sales volume. However, profits are relatively small unlike in luxury garments.
A survey shows that by 2012, the average price of women's outfit, accounting for the largest share of apparel market, is expected to rise by 4.7 percent.
However, in the past four years, rate of women's apparel fell by 9.4 percent. The report said that the main reason behind this drop was retailers' decision to shift production to low-cost countries.
