Boutiqe Magazine November 2021

NOVEMBER 2021

BUSINESS SENSE FOR FASHION RETAILERS

ISSUE 132

Shades of Autumn

Budget news SS22 style updates Trade show diary Partners in Fashion

EDITOR’S LETTER

EDITOR Gemma Ward gemma@bpmedialtd.co.uk PRINT AND ONLINE SALES Julie Neill – julie@bpmedialtd.co.uk Tel 01795 515288 Tel 07960797383 Catherine Ridings – cath@bpmedialtd.co.uk Tel 01795 515288 DESIGN AND PRODUCTION Jack Witcomb – jack@bpmedialtd.co.uk CREDIT FACILITIES MANAGER Beccy Wells – beccy@bpmedialtd.co.uk Tel 01795 515288 PUBLISHERS Julie Neill, Beccy Wells MANAGING DIRECTOR Julie Neill © 2021 Boutique Professional Media Ltd, Office 2, The Old Stable Block, Crescent Road, Faversham, Kent ME13 7GU. No part of this magazine may be reproduced or stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form – electronic, mechanical or physical – without express prior permission and written consent of the publisher. Contributions are invited and when not accepted will be returned only if accompanied by a fully stamped and addressed envelope.

Manuscripts should be type written. No responsibility can be taken for drawings, photographs or literary contributions during transmission or in the editor’s hands. In the absence of an agreement the copyright of all contributions, literary, photographic or artistic, belongs to Boutique Professional Media. The publisher accepts no responsibility in respect of advertisements appearing in the magazine and the opinions expressed do not necessarily represent the views of the Publisher. The Publisher cannot accept liability for any loss arising from the late appearance or non publication of any advertisement.

ON THE COVER:

Image courtesy of Zsiska Jewellery; Tel: 01784 482 888 E: sigal@sigaldistribution.com sigaldistribution.com

Budget backlash

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etailers hoping for a dramatic reform of the business rates system have been left reeling from Rishi Sunak’s Autumn Budget announcement. In his hour-long speech, the chancellor confirmed there won’t be a permanent reduction in rates. Instead, he announced a freeze to the planned rise in April 2022, offering a one-year discount of up to 50 per cent to the retail, hospitality and leisure sectors. (Read further details about the key changes affecting small businesses on page 43).

While any reduction in business rates will no doubt by welcome by indies, critics say the changes don’t go far enough. The British Retail Consortium’s Helen Dickinson OBE slammed the measures, saying: ‘It’s a mixed bag of announcements from the chancellor which falls far short of the truly fundamental reform that is needed and was promised in the government’s 2019 manifesto.’ Read more about the industry’s reaction to the budget and spending review in our news roundup, starting on page nine.

Thankfully, it’s not all disappointing news in this issue. With a green light on public gatherings, trade shows will be back with a vengeance in the new year offering product and business inspiration for retailers. Some shows are continuing with their midpandemic formats, either merging with other shows or operating from smaller venues. Other trade fairs, however, will

be bigger than ever. So, if you’re ready to start putting your schedule together, we’ve created a show diary, starting on page 23, detailing some of the best global trade events.

We’ve also got more positive news: the Boutique Star Awards will be back for 2022! Entries will open in January and there will be some new categories that reflect the monumental strides our readers have made over the past couple of years. There will be a winners’ party in Central London next November, which will give us all a chance to get together to celebrate.

Turn to page 09 for more details on this very special event. We hope you’ll be there to join us!

TRADE SHOW CALENDAR

Out and about TRADE SHOWS ARE BACK. WE ROUND-UP NEXT SEASON’S HOTTEST EVENT DATES TO ADD YOUR 2022 BUYING SCHEDULE

TOP DRAWER WHEN: 16 – 18 January WHERE: Olympia London KEY BRANDS: A JANUARY Weathered Penny, Black and Sigi, Cabbage White Jewellery, By Eloise, Chalk, Dainty London Jewellery, Isles and Stars, Just Trade, Lisa Angel, My Doris CATEGORIES: Home, gift, fashion, craft, greetings and stationery, wellbeing, emerging brands, children’s products and food REASONS TO VISIT: Held in the known favourites. Buyers can browse heart of London, Top Drawer is a new products from international one-stop-shop for buying inspiration, and home-grown brands under one new season sourcing and networking. roof, plus be inspired by live seminar Its organisers hand-select the best sessions at RetailFest. Its educational bands to create a diverse mix of new programme is a huge draw for visitors, names and rising stars as well as well-

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buyers each season with its strong product line-up, runway shows and presentations. Buyers can also source sustainable brands at its Impact event,

TRADE SHOW CALENDAR

DOWN TO BUSINESS

JUST AROUND THE CORNER WHEN: 25 – 26 January in Manchester and 13 – 15 February in London WHERE: Frieght Island, Manchester and The Truman Brewery, Brick Lane, London KEY BRANDS: Blundstone, Juicy Couture, Scholl, Blowfish, Atelier Reve, Ichi, Fransa, B Young, St Tropez, Pulz Jeans, Fly London, Roka, Superga, Louche, Komodo, Unsung Heroine, Religion, Anonyme, Kendall and Kylie, Guess, Nu Denmark, Sugarhill Brighton, Lily and Me CATEGORIES: womenswear, menswear, footwear, accessories and sustainable fashion

REASONS TO VISIT: Originally an up-and-coming menswear show, Just Around the Corner hosted its first womenswear event in London last summer. Next season it will merge both categories under one roof with two dedicated events in Manchester and the capital. Buyers will be able to discover 250 brands across the two venues,

INDX WOMENSWEAR

combining over 40,000 sq ft of event space. Alongside clothing, there will be dedicated zones for responsible brands, footwear and accessories. Plus, buyers will also be treated to complimentary refreshments and a free celebratory party after the first day of the London show.

TICKETS: free – register via justaroundthecorner.co.ukregister

CIFF

AND FOOTWEAR bringing together leading industry experts to discuss key topics such as social media, brand building and e-commerce.

TICKETS: free – pre-register now via topdrawer.co.uk

WHO’S NEXT WHEN: 21 – 24 January WHERE: Porte de Versailles, Paris KEY BRANDS: American Vintage, Bella Jones, Calarena, Diega, Greek Archaic Kori, Imperial, Karma Koma, Lara Ethnics by Nature, La Nouvelle, La Petite étoile, Laurence Bras, Léon and Harper, Ma petite plage, Mes Demoiselles, Niu, Reiko, Rene Derhy, Stella Forest and Tinsels CATEGORIES: womenswear, jewellery, footwear, accessories, resort and swimwear, bags and leather goods, sourcing, business solutions REASONS TO VISIT: Presenting a huge range of international fashion labels and French brands, Parisian show Who’s Next attracts 45,000

Gemma Ward, Editor Follow us on Instagram @boutique.magazine

innovative business solutions at Traffic and jewellery pieces at Bijorhca.

TICKETS: free E: info@wsn.community

WHEN: 2 – 3 February 2021 WHERE: Cranmore Park Conference and FEBRUARY Event Centre, Cranmore Avenue, Shirley, Solihull KEY BRANDS: Ashwood Leather, Fransa, b.young, ICHI, Pulz, Louche, Sahara, Weird Fish, Geox, Lunar, Lazy Dogz, Goodyear, GriSport, I.nco, Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen footwear, HEYDUDE, Lizabella, Ella Boo, Khost, Sonder, Spirit, Gla’mour, Lily and Me, The Bamboo Wardrobe, Hatley, Womenswear and Footwear Trespass, DLX, Joe Browns, offers an inspiring selection of Nomads, Pomodoro, Doris and brands in an informal and relaxed Dude, Goose Island, Viz a viz, buying environment. The show is Penny Plain, Tigi, Talolo organised and curated by industry CATEGORIES: forward and short experts to meet the needs of order womenswear, footwear, retailers. Alongside viewing new casual wear, formal wear, lifestyle collections, visitors receive free brands, sustainable brands, admission, accessible parking and headwear and hats complimentary refreshments.

REASONS TO VISIT: Back TICKETS: Free via to its original pre-covid format indxshows.co.uk/indx-fashion/ as a standalone show, INDX womenswear/registration

WHEN: 2 – 4 February WHERE: Bella Center, Copenhagen CATEGORIES: womenswear, menswear, childrenswear, footwear, lingerie REASONS TO VISIT: Copenhagen International Fashion Fair (CIFF) is a firm favourite among international buyers thanks to its strong line-up of Scandi brands. Over the years, CIFF Has grown from regional trade Fair to international fashion hub, earning it a reputation as one of Europe’s most dynamic and innovative sales platforms.

Today it is the longest running fashion trade show in northern Europe and a must-visit bi-annual destination for thousands of international buyers.

Visitors can peruse 20,000 square metres of collections across its supersized two-storey showroom, making it one of the best places to find boutique brands in Europe.

TICKETS: free – pre-register via ciff.dk NOVEMBER 2021 | boutique. | 25

11 things we learned

from the Autumn Statement WILL YOUR BUSINESS BE ANY BETTER OFF FOLLOWING THE GOVERNMENT’S LATEST ANNOUNCEMENTS? HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW… 1. This government will never abolish business rates Despite calls from industry insiders, chancellor Rishi Sunak made it clear that there will be no permanent reduction in business rates from this government. He said: “Reckless, unfunded promises to abolish a tax which raises £25 billion a year are completely irresponsible. It would be wrong to find £25 billion a year in extra borrowing, cuts to public services or tax rises elsewhere, so we’ll

retain business rates – but with key reform to ease the burden and create stronger high streets.”

2. Rates will be reviewed every three years

Following criticism that the fiveyear revaluation period for business rates is too long, Sunak said it would “make the system fairer and timelier with more frequent revaluations every three years.” A new revaluation cycle will be delivered from 2023.

3. Retailers will be able to improve their properties and pay no extra rates for one year

Sunak also said the government will introduce a new business rates improvement relief from 2023, meaning every business can invest in their properties and pay no extra business rates for one year. He also announced a new investment relief to encourage businesses to adopt green technologies like solar panels. But Bira

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CONTENTS

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LEEDS SHOWROOM January – March 2022

LONDON SHOWROOM 9th – 19th February 2022

0800 612 9009 www.carolccollections.com

HARROGATE FASHION WEEK 6th – 7th February 2022

FASHION FIX

Fashion Fix

ESSENTIAL NEWS FOR FASHION INDIES

STEPHANIE BELTON PHOTOGRAPHY

Chloe James Lifestyle hosts sell-out fashion show inside St Albans cathedral

S

t Albans indie Chloe James Lifestyle hosted a sell-out fashion show last month inside the South Transept of the city’s imposing cathedral. The event was organised by the indie’s owner and founder Donna Nichol to mark its 10-year anniversary – a celebration that had been postponed three times because of the pandemic.

Attended by 220 people including Alison Lowe MBE and Down Your High Street CEO Dan Whytock, guests were treated to a champagne reception, live music from the St Albans Jazz Ensemble and an hourlong catwalk show. For customers who wanted to purchase products, there were two pop-up shops from Chloe James Lifestyle and British jewellery brand Scream Pretty, which was also celebrating its tenth birthday.

Customers were able to opt for a £35 standard ticket or pay £45 for one of 50 front row seats. Those who chose the higher priced ticket also

received a limited-edition Chloe James Lifestyle tote bag filled with gifts from Black Colour DK, Estella Bartlett and Whiteleaf jewellery.

The catwalk show presented 84 looks encompassing everything from casual to partywear, with Nichol choosing 12 models representing various ages and body shapes: “While I wanted them to look stunning, I also wanted the audience to be able to identify with the models and maybe think ‘wow, that looks great on her and she’s my age/ body shape,’” she explains. “I want to push the fact that fashion and style is for everyone. There are no age limits!”

Chloe James Lifestyle has been hosting bi-annual fashion shows on a smaller scale for several years, inviting guests to visit the store afterwards to make purchases. But to celebrate a decade on the high street, Nichol wanted to organise an even bigger event that properly marked the occasion: “I started looking around for bigger venues and thinking of ways to

put on an event that was reflective of our achievements,” she explains. “St Albans cathedral is absolutely beautiful and I feel truly honoured to have been able to choose it for our special event.”

As a covid contingency plan, the boutique owner enlisted more models than usual in case anyone caught the virus: “Two of them actually did (catch it), but were thankfully better by the time of the show,” she says.

“It was a close call though and we could have managed with nine or 10 if we’d had to. I also had around 10 volunteers lined up to help and lost four of them in the last week.

But everyone was incredible, it was definitely a team effort!”

Looking ahead to next year, the owner says she’ll “probably” go back to the store’s original intimate catwalk show format but is tempted by another large-scale event. “The cathedral event was fantastic,” she says. “And once you’ve done it once, it does get easier.”

NOVEMBER 2021 | boutique. | 9

FASHION FIX

Autumn Budget fails to deliver fundamental reform of business rates, say critics Industry insiders say the government’s Autumn Budget announcement falls short of the truly fundamental reform of business rates promised in its 2019 manifesto. Chancellor Rishi Sunak set out a number of changes to the system, including more frequent revaluations, relief on improvements and a oneyear 50 per cent discount on rates for businesses in the retail, hospitality and leisure sectors. However, critics say the measures don’t go far enough to help those struggling after the covid crisis.

Helen Dickinson from the British Retail Consortium comments: “This budget is a missed opportunity for retail and the three million people

who work in the industry, and it prevents retail from maximising its contribution to the government’s levelling up agenda.”

Bira CEO Andrew Goodacre adds: “The devil is in the detail. Reducing rates by 50 per cent next year is in fact a 100 per cent increase on what businesses are actually paying. While we welcome the use of rates relief to encourage investment and a shorter period between rates reviews, the problem is that 2022 will more about survival than investment.”

Turn to page 44 for further analysis on the 2021 Autumn Budget and Spending Review.

Entries to open this January for Boutique Star Awards 2022 The next Boutique Star Awards will take place in Central London in November 2022, with entries opening this January.

First launched two years ago, the competition celebrates independent fashion retailers and their suppliers with a range of prestigious accolades.

The awards were cancelled in 2020 and 2021 due to restrictions on public gatherings, which made plans to hold a winners’ party uncertain. At the inaugural event in October 2019, around 150 industry insiders attended an informal gathering at The Deck 10 | boutique. | NOVEMBER 2021

located inside London’s iconic National Theatre - to see the winners crowned.

Accolades were presented to the likes of Young Ideas in Derbyshire, Haygen in Islington and Tillets in Yorkshire as well as Capri Clothing, Joanna Edwards Agency and James Lakeland.

Next year’s event will take place at a bigger and even more glamorous venue, with new categories planned to recognise the industry’s achievements.

Publisher Julie Neill, who heads the planning of the awards, comments: “After what will be a three-year hiatus,

Fashion continues to show signs of recovery as retail sales dip overall The latest ONS figures reveal retail sales volumes fell for a recordbreaking fifth consecutive month in September, as spending in shops dipped by 0.2 per cent compared to August 2021. However, clothing and department store sales continued to show signs of recovery, rising by 4.3 per cent and 0.2 per cent respectively.

Overall non-food stores experienced a fall of 1.4 per cent in sales volumes while food store transactions rose by 0.6 per cent.

Household goods saw the largest monthly decline of 9.3 per cent while furniture and book sales were also hit particularly hard.

The proportion of retail sales online, meanwhile, increased to 28.1 per cent in September compared to 27.9 per cent in August – a substantially higher percentage than its pre-pandemic share of 19.7 per cent in February 2020.

we can’t wait to celebrate the industry again at the Boutique Star Awards 2022. We’re planning an even bigger and better event than our first, with entertainment, a chance to socialise and plenty of fizz. Independent retailers and brands big and small can enter the competition for their chance to be recognised after this extremely challenging time.”

Full details of award categories, entry requirements and judging criteria will be announced soon alongside confirmation of the exact date and venue.

S N OX E L L & G W Y T H E R

GABRIELA SANCHEZ

RUPERT & BUCKLEY

T I N TA

FOIL

DOLCEZZA

POMODORO

K E VA N J O N

ELLA BOO

WWW.HARROGATEFASHIONWEEK.COM

RINO & PELLE

FASHION FIX

B2B marketplace Ankorstore offers blanket Black Friday discounts If you’d like to take part in this month’s Black Friday but don’t want to shrink your margins, B2B marketplace Ankorstore is offering wholesale discounts across its entire site. Retailers can take advantage of up to 60 per cent discounts on products from British and international brands such as the House of Holland, Zatchels and Saskia and Rose. There’s free shipping available on all orders over £300 and you can buy now and pay later to reduce risk (lead times vary from three days to two weeks).

Since launching in 2019, Ankorstore has been recognised as one of the fastest growing tech companies in Europe and raised more funding than any other Paris start-up last year ($100m).

Boutique barometer INDUSTRY SALES FIGURES SEPTEMBER 2021 (VERSUS SPETEMBER 2020)

+12.06% Average sales quantity

+8.23% The UK has become its fastest growing market and Ankorstore now works with more than 20,000 independent retailers since arriving here last year. Sign up for an account at ankorstore.com.

Average selling price

+1.33% Profit margin These figures represent findings from a cross section of independent online and bricks-and-mortar retailers around the UK. Total stock management and EPoS provider Top to Toe has compiled this industry index to offer Boutique readers an insight into what’s happening on the high street and online. Tel: 0203 376 5888 E: info@toptotoe.com Toptotoe.com

Dates announced for next edition of Harrogate Fashion Week The sixth edition of Harrogate Fashion Week will take place on 6 – 7 February 2022 at the Harrogate Convention Centre, the show’s organisers have confirmed.

The AW22 event follows a successful edition in August, which saw a 40 per cent uplift in visitors compared 12 | boutique. | NOVEMBER 2021

to its last physical show in January 2021. Buyers travelled from as far afield as Bournemouth and Dublin to attend, with 100 brands showcasing their collections across womenswear, footwear, occasionwear and accessories.

Around 70 per cent of brands rebooked for the February edition

at the August show, with confirmed labels including Ella Boo, Foil, Marble, Pomodoro, John Charles, Veromia, Rupert and Buckley, Lily and Me, Ashwood Leathers and Failsworth Hats.

Since first launching in July 2019, Harrogate Fashion Week has grown in popularity among both buyers and brands. Show visitors are offered free on-site parking as well as special discounted rates for local hotels. The organisers also host a free drinks party on the Sunday evening so buyers can network with other indies and suppliers.

2-3 FEB 2022 Discover new and emerging labels, together with established brands and industry leaders.

We look forward to welcoming you to the INDX Womenswear & Footwear Show.

Register now: www.indxshows.co.uk UNFORGETTABLE . UNRIVALLED . UNMISSABLE

REGISTER NOW

Where the industry unites For exhibitor enquiries visit www.indxshows.co.uk or email info@indxshows.co.uk

FASHION FIX

#Grid goals TOP POSTS WE’VE LIKED ON THE ‘GRAM THIS MONTH

@deryanetadd

“24 hours in Antwerp, visiting @essentielantwerp.

Thankyou to @anais_p.s and the Essentiel team for making me so welcome…”

@_theedit_

“And we’re ready! #altrincham The Edit is open tomorrow at 10 #atrincham #hale #didsbury #knutsford #alderleyedge #boutique”

@heidi_boutique

“Give us a like if you can see us, after all the shenanigans from Instagram! Julie & I were very busy in London buying from @kaffeclothing @numph_official & @soyaconcept”

@thepantryunderwear

“F R I Y A Y … this time last week we awoke as ‘Lingerie Independent of the Year’ awarded by industry hub @drapersonline & of course we’re still on a massive high…”

Social butterflies @bernardboutique

Offering a stellar selection of high-end brands such as Ba&sh and Acne Studios, Bernard Boutique posts inspirational fashion pics and expertly curated flat lays.

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@surreyfrills

Flying the flag for fashion retailers in Surrey, hit the follow button on the Surrey Frills account to see shop local campaigning at its best.

THREE INSPIRATIONAL INSTAGRAM ACCOUNTS TO FOLLOW NOW

@jatcevents

New trade show on the block Just Around the Corner posts regular updates - from product and brand info to inside intel on its upcoming events.

Joanna Edwards Agency www.joannaedwardsagency.co.uk 07989014141 / 07512550346 joannaedwardsagency@gmail.com

FASHION FIX

Best of both

Designed by make-up artist Hannah Martin, Scream Pretty’s Pearl and Chain T Bar Bracelet combines the best of the two elements to create a stunning mix of textures. One half features dainty Swarovski rice white pearls while the other is a chunky oval link chain, which merge to create a unique timeless piece. £14.95; Tel: 01753 424 160 E: sales@screampretty.com tradescreampretty.com

Present perfection British boutique label From My Mother’s Garden has a range of short order gift options for Christmas including luxury mini and long robes in exclusive nature-inspired prints. £POA; Tel: 07825 148 040 E: info@frommymothersgarden.co.uk frommymothersgarden.co.uk

Treasure trove

ELEVATE YOUR BOUTIQUE WITH THESE LUST-WORTHY BUYS

On reflection

Inspired by the multidisciplinary work of artists Gioele Amaro and Olafur Eliasson, the Spring 2022 collection by Danish label Rabens Saloner plays with colour, texture and fabric. Metallics, transparency and lightness - both in terms of weight and radiance - work together to create a wardrobe that is relaxed, fun and utterly beautiful. Dropping in stores from January 2022, £POA; Lily and Me’s best-selling Haywood Dress is E: sv@inexcessfashion.com now available in a beautiful new Autumnal ditsy print. Style with trainers and a denim jacket or layer over a turtleneck and boots for easy cold weather style. £25; Tel: 01452 Launched for Christmas, Cocorose London’s 207 766 E: info@lilyandme.com Hoxton Zipped Leopard Print trainers feature lilyandme.com contrasting pink leather heels and gold zips for maximum style points. £POA; Tel: 0208 829 8919 cocoroselondon.com

Autumn style

Born to be wild

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GLOBAL EXPORT OPPORTUNITIES FOR BRITISH AND EU BRANDS

We are currently brand scouting for British and EU fashion and lifestyle brands who would like to increase market share through export. Friends with the world’s leading retailers, Retaissance brings you an exclusive opportunity for your brand to join premium portfolios.

In 2020, over 6.7 billion British pounds (GBP) worth of apparel and clothing accessories were exported from the UK - over 4.76 billion GBP of which were dispatched to European Union member countries.

While the trading conditions continue to be challenging, some businesses and geographies will experience significant growth. Diversifying risk is sensible for brands, and we have already seen a huge increase in demand for exporting products into new markets. A large number of European clients are now looking at expanding overseas to generate revenue in other countries.

CONTACT: Brands please contact us to learn how we can grow your business through new sales channels and markets. support@retaissance.com | www.retaissance.agency | +44 (0) 1606 633000

FASHION FIX

Spring chic

Offering a refreshingly cool and chic aesthetic with bold yet relaxed silhouettes, the SS22 range by German label Toni is a great choice for buyers looking for quality and style in equal measures. £POA; Tel: 0207 636 4207 E: sales@partnersinfashion.co.uk partnersinfashion.com

Think pink

Norwegian label Høst and Vår creates bold, feminine and colourful garments in luxurious sustainable fabrics. Its trans-seasonal pieces such as this pink jumpsuit will help inject colour into womenswear edits from now until next spring. £POA; E: info@hostandvar.com

Boutique loves…

Slow fashion

MUST-HAVE PICKS TO BRIGHTEN UP YOUR RAILS THIS SEASON

Portuguese womenswear label A Line creates timeless collections with strong attention to detail. Each garment is made to transcend trends, encouraging shoppers to shop less but buy better and create a more sustainable fashion cycle. £POA; Tel: 0035 191 2288 577 retaissance.com/buyers

Stay in check

Sole trader

Waterproof, comfortable and available in a range of colourways, Tank Steiger’s Lug Sole Boots are the perfect choice for braving winter weather conditions in style. £POA; E: wholesale@ tanksteiger.com

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Inspired by Finnish modernist architect Alvar Aalto, Baum and Pferdgarten’s SS22 collection features fluid silhouettes and shiny materials, with checks, psychedelic prints and pastel hues taking centre stage. £POA; E: dana@ baumundpferdgarten.com

Autumn/Winter 2021

British by by nature

Lily & Me Autumn/Winter 2021 Collection AW21 stock available now and throughout the season while stocks last. orders@lilyandmeclothing.com

lilyandme.com

OCTOBER 2021 | boutique. | 19

+44(0) 1452 207 766

FASHION FIX

Responsible gifting

Sustainable underwear brand Nudea creates thoughtfully-designed bras and knickers made from premium fabrics and recycled yarns.

Its Lift Balcony Bra in Midnight Navy is the perfect choice for eco-friendly gifting edits this festive season. £POA; E: info@nudea.com nudea.com

Sustainable work out

Consciously made in Italy, Varenna’s activewear is crafted in limited edition runs using synthetic recycled and recyclable fibres. For SS22, its collection includes new shapes and unique designs split into four capsule ranges: Deep Indigo, Desert Escape, Into the Wild and Spices Mood. £POA; E: sofia@blackpr.co.uk

Eco chic

Timeless elegance

Offering demi-fine jewellery made from responsibly sourced materials, Pureshore is a timeless yet contemporary option for boutiques. £POA: E: info pureshorejewellery.com

SUSTAINABLE PRODUCTS AND BRANDS

‘Tis the season to hygge Cuddle up and enjoy the winter season with these brushed wool garments from OWN/ by basics. Its eco-chic pieces are made using natural wool from mulesing-free sheep and are perfect for embracing the Danish traditions of hygge. The brand’s garments are made to order and produced in Europe, making them even easier to love and enjoy. £POA; E: pg@bybasics.com bybasics.com 20 | boutique. | NOVEMBER 2021

Head space

Stay cosy in SEP Jordan’s luxe cashmere pieces, which are meticulously crafted by refugee artists in Jordan. £POA: E: info@sepjordan.com

pg@bybasics.com NOVEMBER 2021 | boutique. | 21 bybasics.com

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STOCK UP

Stock Up

WHAT TO BUY NOW

Buying heaven

HARROGATE FASHION WEEK

W

ith trade shows set to be in full swing again next season, we reveal everything you need to know to organise your 2022 buying calendar…

NOVEMBER 2021 | boutique. | 23

TRADE SHOW CALENDAR

Out and about TRADE SHOWS ARE BACK. WE ROUND-UP NEXT SEASON’S HOTTEST EVENT DATES TO ADD YOUR 2022 BUYING SCHEDULE

TOP DRAWER WHEN: 16 – 18 January WHERE: Olympia London KEY BRANDS: A JANUARY Weathered Penny, Black and Sigi, Cabbage White Jewellery, By Eloise, Chalk, Dainty London Jewellery, Isles and Stars, Just Trade, Lisa Angel, My Doris CATEGORIES: Home, gift, fashion, craft, greetings and stationery, wellbeing, emerging brands, children’s products and food REASONS TO VISIT: Held in the heart of London, Top Drawer is a known favourites. Buyers can browse one-stop-shop for buying inspiration, new products from international new season sourcing and networking. and home-grown brands under one Its organisers hand-select the best roof, plus be inspired by live seminar bands to create a diverse mix of new sessions at RetailFest. Its educational names and rising stars as well as wellprogramme is a huge draw for visitors,

bringing together leading industry experts to discuss key topics such as social media, brand building and e-commerce.

TICKETS: free – pre-register now via topdrawer.co.uk

WHO’S NEXT WHEN: 21 – 24 January WHERE: Porte de Versailles, Paris KEY BRANDS: American Vintage, Bella Jones, Calarena, Diega, Greek Archaic Kori, Imperial, Karma Koma, Lara Ethnics by Nature, La Nouvelle, La Petite étoile, Laurence Bras, Léon and Harper, Ma petite plage, Mes Demoiselles, Niu, Reiko, Rene Derhy, Stella Forest and Tinsels CATEGORIES: womenswear, jewellery, footwear, accessories, resort and swimwear, bags and leather goods, sourcing, business solutions REASONS TO VISIT: Presenting a huge range of international fashion labels and French brands, Parisian show Who’s Next attracts 45,000 24 | boutique. | NOVEMBER 2021

buyers each season with its strong product line-up, runway shows and presentations. Buyers can also source sustainable brands at its Impact event,

innovative business solutions at Traffic and jewellery pieces at Bijorhca.

TICKETS: free E: info@wsn.community

TRADE SHOW CALENDAR

JUST AROUND THE CORNER WHEN: 25 – 26 January in Manchester and 13 – 15 February in London WHERE: Frieght Island, Manchester and The Truman Brewery, Brick Lane, London KEY BRANDS: Blundstone, Juicy Couture, Scholl, Blowfish, Atelier Reve, Ichi, Fransa, B Young, St Tropez, Pulz Jeans, Fly London, Roka, Superga, Louche, Komodo, Unsung Heroine, Religion, Anonyme, Kendall and Kylie, Guess, Nu Denmark, Sugarhill Brighton, Lily and Me CATEGORIES: womenswear, menswear, footwear, accessories and sustainable fashion

REASONS TO VISIT: Originally an up-and-coming menswear show, Just Around the Corner hosted its first womenswear event in London last summer. Next season it will merge both categories under one roof with two dedicated events in Manchester and the capital. Buyers will be able to discover 250 brands across the two venues,

INDX WOMENSWEAR

combining over 40,000 sq ft of event space. Alongside clothing, there will be dedicated zones for responsible brands, footwear and accessories. Plus, buyers will also be treated to complimentary refreshments and a free celebratory party after the first day of the London show.

TICKETS: free – register via justaroundthecorner.co.ukregister

CIFF

AND FOOTWEAR WHEN: 2 – 3 February 2021 WHERE: Cranmore Park Conference and FEBRUARY Event Centre, Cranmore Avenue, Shirley, Solihull KEY BRANDS: Ashwood Leather, Fransa, b.young, ICHI, Pulz, Louche, Sahara, Weird Fish, Geox, Lunar, Lazy Dogz, Goodyear, GriSport, I.nco, Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen footwear, HEYDUDE, Lizabella, Ella Boo, Khost, Sonder, Spirit, Gla’mour, Lily and Me, The Womenswear and Footwear Bamboo Wardrobe, Hatley, offers an inspiring selection of Trespass, DLX, Joe Browns, brands in an informal and relaxed Nomads, Pomodoro, Doris and Dude, Goose Island, Viz a viz, buying environment. The show is organised and curated by industry Penny Plain, Tigi, Talolo experts to meet the needs of CATEGORIES: forward and short retailers. Alongside viewing new order womenswear, footwear, collections, visitors receive free casual wear, formal wear, lifestyle brands, sustainable brands, admission, accessible parking and headwear and hats complimentary refreshments.

TICKETS: Free via REASONS TO VISIT: Back indxshows.co.uk/indx-fashion/ to its original pre-covid format womenswear/registration as a standalone show, INDX

WHEN: 2 – 4 February WHERE: Bella Center, Copenhagen CATEGORIES: womenswear, menswear, childrenswear, footwear, lingerie REASONS TO VISIT: Copenhagen International Fashion Fair (CIFF) is a firm favourite among international buyers thanks to its strong line-up of Scandi brands. Over the years, CIFF Has grown from regional trade Fair to international fashion hub, earning it a reputation as one of Europe’s most dynamic and innovative sales platforms.

Today it is the longest running fashion trade show in northern Europe and a must-visit bi-annual destination for thousands of international buyers.

Visitors can peruse 20,000 square metres of collections across its supersized two-storey showroom, making it one of the best places to find boutique brands in Europe.

TICKETS: free – pre-register via ciff.dk NOVEMBER 2021 | boutique. | 25

TRADE SHOW CALENDAR

HARROGATE FASHION WEEK

WHEN: 6 – 7 February 2021 WHERE: Harrogate Convention Centre, Harrogate KEY BRANDS: Foil, Orientique, Marble, Vermia, Ella Boo, Pomodoro, Rupert and Buckley, Jayley, John Charles, Lily and Me, Rino and Pelle, Gabriella Sanchez, Bariloche, Capri CATEGORIES: womenswear, accessories, occasionwear, footwear, lifestyle

REASONS TO VISIT: Bringing together leading brands and indies for a two-day exhibition, Harrogate Fashion Week takes place in the famous spa town, making visiting great for both business and pleasure.

The next show will be its sixth edition, with more new brands joining every season. Its early dateline helps retailers get organised for the season ahead while the show is easily accessible

with free parking and cloakroom facilities. Buyers can also view attending exhibitors from eight weeks before the show opens and plan their appointments in advance. There’s also a drinks party after the show’s first day, giving visitors and exhibitors a chance to network.

TICKETS: free – registration opens mid-November via harrogatefashionweek.com

able to discover new products and brands across a range of product categories all under one roof. The four-day event will also include a dedicated section for children’s footwear and an exclusive edit from the Jewellery and Watch show.

So whether you’re looking for handbags, fashion or children’s gifts, you’ll be able to find it in one handy destination.

TICKETS: free – pre-register your interest via springfair.com or moda-uk.co.uk

SPRING FAIR AND MODA WHEN: 6 – 9 February WHERE: NEC Birmingham KEY BRANDS: Superfit, Emu Australia and Emu kids, Xti and Xti Kids, Refresh, CAT footwear, Alpe, Fly London, Keddo, Blowfish Malibu, HOGL, Carmela, Mustang, Legero, Vionic, Naturalista, Jayley, LA RUSH, Saloos, Gill International, Jessica Graff, Sunco, Paradiso Couture, Beau Moda, Vijay Fashion, Goose Island, Perfection Clothing, Evylaure and Alice Collins.

CATEGORIES: womenswear, accessories, footwear, watches, jewellery, sustainable fashion brands, homewares, children’s products and gifts.

REASONS TO VISIT: With two major shows merged together at Birmingham’s NEC, buyers will be 26 | boutique. | NOVEMBER 2021

TRADE SHOW CALENDAR

TEXWORLD EVOLUTION WHEN: 7 – 9 February WHERE: Le Bourget Exhibition Centre, Paris CATEGORIES: womenswear, leather wear, accessories, knitwear, leisurewear and childrenswear REASONS TO VISIT: One

of Europe’s largest trade shows for garment sourcing, Texworld Evolution will host four events in a new intermediary format adapted for the pandemic. The show follows two successful post-covid editions and will encompass Apparel Sourcing Paris, Avantex Paris, Leatherworld Paris and Texworld Paris. Buyers can expect to find everything from luxury ready-to-wear and accessories

SCOOP X PURE WHEN: 13 – 15 February WHERE: Saatchi Gallery, London CATEGORIES: womenswear, premium labels and accessories REASONS TO VISIT: After uniting at the Old Truman Brewery in September, Scoop and Pure London are collaborating once again this February at the Saatchi Gallery. The show will present a ‘highly edited’ line-up of collections and brands on a department store-style show floor. Organiser the Hyve Group says Pure London will return to its original venue, Olympia London, on 17 – 19 July 2022.

TICKETS: free – register via purelondon.com or scoop-international.com 28 | boutique. | NOVEMBER 2021

to innovative materials from hundreds of exhibitors. Organisers expect Texworld Evolution Paris to return to its pre-covid size and configuration for its July 2022 edition, which will be held at the Parc des Expositions at Porte de Versailles.

TICKETS: free – pre-register via texworld-paris.fr.messefrankfurt.com/ paris/en

Partner-up for fashion sourcing 7-9 February 2022 Paris Le Bourget, France www.texworldevolution-paris.com

TRADE SHOW CALENDAR

PREMIERE CLASSE WHEN: 4 – 7 March WHERE: Jardin des Tuileries, Paris KEY BRANDS: Amédée Paris, Amrose, Atelier Mercadal Paris, Avril Gau, Béton Ciré, Campomaggi, Chie Mihara, Claramonte, Clio Goldbrener, Collection Privée, Courtois Paris, Elena Feidt, Ephyre Paris, Marianna Ladreyt, Marie Laure Chamorel, Medecine Douce, Meher Kakalia, Mexicana, Mii, Moismont, My Bob,

APLF WHEN: 730 March – 1 April WHERE: Dubai World Trade Centre, Dubai CATEGORIES: small leather goods including bags, footwear and fashion accessories 30 | boutique. | NOVEMBER 2021

MARCH Nach, Paraboot, Philippe Audibert, Repetto, Sans Arcidet, Sartore, Satellite Paris, Shourouk CATEGORIES: fashion accessories, jewellery, footwear, bags and leather goods, emerging designers plus a selection of premium ready-to-wear REASONS TO VISIT: Held during Paris Fashion Week, accessories show Premiere Class has been established for over 30 years. The

event presents nearly 450 brands and designers, specially chosen for their creativity, originality and style. Organisers say visitors will also be treated to gastronomy experiences, animations, workshops and parties. It’s also set to launch its own digital B2B platform, CXMP, for year-round buying.

TICKETS: free - E: info@wsn. community

REASONS TO VISIT: A global leader in leather events, APLF has been established for over 30 years. The show hosts 900 exhibitors from over 40 countries, attracting buyers from all over the world. Previously held in Hong Kong, next year’s event is relocating to Dubai for a one-off show during the

covid crisis. Visitors will be able source one of the most comprehensive ranges of small leather goods in the world alongside sourcing materials. The show also presents the latest trend forecasts and business-focused seminars.

TICKETS: E: info@aplf.com leatherfair.aplf.com

A W 22 Alembika Alquema Elsewh ere Igor Ozai N Ku Philom ena Christ Showing in London 7th-18th February 2022 Manchester 20th-25th February 2022 For details & appointments please call us on 020 7580 3202 or email nigel@aptcollections.ltd.uk or claudia@aptcollections.ltd.uk Looking forward to seeing you! www.aptcollections.co.uk

@aptcollections

PROMOTION

Mindfulness basics

DANISH LABEL BY BASICS OFFERS THE PERFECT PIECES FOR PRACTISING MINDFUL LIVING

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ith a new year rapidly approaching, we all want to end 2021 in the best possible way – and start the new one with good habits. Mindfulness is a favourite way for many of us to ease the stress of modern living.

And what better way to seek a more mindful life than by wearing mindfully-made essentials crafted in natural fabrics?

Danish brand by basics is the perfect choice for this reason. The brand appeals to every person, season and occasion thanks to its consciously made everyday essentials that can also be worn while practising mindfulness.

What is mindfulness?

According to mindful.org, ‘Mindfulness is the basic human ability to be fully present, aware of where we are and what we’re doing, and not overly reactive or overwhelmed by what’s going on around us.’

Mindfulness is a way to be kinder, calmer, and more patient. Yoga, pilates and meditation are popular mindfulness exercises – and for good reason. Each CONTACT: E: pg@bybasics.com bybasics.com 32 | boutique. | NOVEMBER 2021

strengthens your mind and body in different ways, encouraging you to take a mindful moment to pause and breathe instead of rushing forward.

What to wear

Why not enhance your mindfulness training with mindfully-made clothing? Natural made clothing calms your body and allows it to breathe.

The bamboo range from by basics is made from 94 per cent bamboo and 6 per cent elastane. Its soft and stretchy bamboo styles offer flexible and comfortable wear that’s perfect for yoga and pilates.

Meanwhile, blusbar and brushed wool from OWN by basics pieces are made using 100 per cent merino wool from mulesing-free sheep. Super soft and helping to keep your body at the perfect temperature, both labels’ mustwear pieces are especially great after exercising to keep your body warm and relaxed.

Bamboo and merino wool both have temperature regulating qualities and antibacterial effects. Plus, they’re breathable – making them perfect for exercising and mindfulness practice.

Tel: 01884 860 900

E: sales@helenmoore.com W: www.helenmoore.com

ACCESSSORIES

Fashion Extras GEMMA WARD PICKS OUT THIS MONTH’S BEST BAGS, JEWELS AND FOOTWEAR

Classic choice

Perfect for daily use, Barbour’s classic unisex Highfield canvas backpack features an outer front pocket and inner slip pocket for housing everyday essentials. £POA; E: sales@barbour.com

Statement dressing

Yaa Yaa London’s handmade Hold On necklace features rose quartz gemstones on a chunky gold chain – creating the ultimate statement piece. £POA; E: yvonne@yaayaalondon.com yaayaalondon.com 34 | boutique. | NOVEMBER 2021

Comfort factor

Made from the finest calfskin, Sante and Wade’s western-inspired Jummai boots feature the brand’s proprietary footbed made from breathable memory foam for all-day comfort. £POA; E: hello@santewade.com

Star gift

If you’re looking for last minute Christmas gifts, L’Occitane’s Shea Butter Festive Bauble contains three indulgent treats for super smooth and soft skin. £POA; uk.loccitane.com

Winter elegance

Offering timeless accessories crafted in luxurious faux fur, Helen Moore’s chic accessories are a great choice for high-end boutiques.

From £14; Tel: 01884 860 900 trade.helenmoore.com

Shooting star

Handmade using semi-precious stone labradorite, ChloBo’s Star Ruler Bracelet can be worn alone or stacked with other pieces to create a striking look. £POA; E: andi@chlobo.co.uk

Winter warmer

Created by artists and craftswomen who happen to be refugees, SEP Jordan’s luxurious cashmere mittens are crafted in the finest yarn and finished with intricate embroidery. £POA; E: info@sepjordan.com

Star gazing

Featuring a sparkly rainbow star print, Sugarhill Brighton’s Astrid Starburst Jumper can be styled with jeans or tucked into a skirt to create a chic Christmas look. £19.30; Tel: 01273 911 393

ACCESSSORIES

Time to grow

The Seed Company’s Christmas cards are embedded with high quality wildflower seeds so recipients can plant each one into a garden or pot after use. £POA; E: theseedcardcompany.com

Desk planner

Designed to maximise productivity and self-care, Martha Brook London’s Working From Home Daily Planner is the perfect gift for 2022. £POA; E: hello@marthabrook.com

Stack it up

Worn alone or perfect for layering, Scream Pretty’s Celestial Chunky Single Ear Cuff is a standout piece that will add impact to any ear stack.

Available in silver or gold plated, £11.50; tradescreampretty.com

Snakes on a chain

Whether styled as a long-chain necklace or worn as a choker, Miphologia Jewelry’s Snake Necklace will bring an edge to outfits this AW21 and beyond. £POA; miphologiajewlry.com

Peace on Earth

Featuring a dove carrying an olive branch, With Love Darling’s Peace Necklace is the brand’s interpretation of the UN’s global goal for justice and inclusivity. £POA; E: love@withlovedarling.com

Wanderlust

Based on the classic camera bag used by travel photographers, the Cambridge Satchel Company’s The Traveller crossbody is the perfect go-to bag for every daytime occasion. £POA; E: wholesale@cambridgesatchel.com

One fine day

Premium sleepwear brand Isla Day produces classic-shaped pyjamas in sustainable materials including modal cotton and wool pulp. £POA; E: sofia@blackpr.co.uk isladay.co.uk

In black and white

Shown during NYFW, black-owned brand Le’Foreign specialises in monochrome fantasy and staple pieces designed to empower modern women. £POA; E: sofia@blackpr.co.uk leforeigns.com

Christmas sparkle

Jewellery supplier Dante offers quality pieces in a wide range of designs and colourways, which can be bought in-season from its website with no minimum order requirement. £POA; Tel: 01260 226 588 dantejewellery.co.uk NOVEMBER 2021 | boutique. | 35

PROMOTION

Smooth finish ENHANCE YOUR PARTYWEAR EDIT WITH CUPID FINE INTIMATES’ FLATTERING COMFORT-DRIVEN SHAPEWEAR

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ombining elegant designs and innovative features with fashion forward styling and fine fabrics, Cupid Fine Intimates sets the standard for comfort, adjustability and performance. Its shapewear delivers total control as well as being comfortable to wear. Available in microfiber, lace, modal and moisture-wicking fabrics, each style comes in a range of colours and silhouettes.

Meanwhile its pieces are finished with the brand’s patented Wonderful Edge technology to deliver all-day comfort. Central to the range is Cupid’s Sleek Essentials line, encompassing a hi-waist thong, brief, slip and boy short. These firmcontrol garments boast limited-seam construction

that won’t create visible lines under clothing, a Comfort Tech Band to keep the underwear in place without it rolling down or digging into the midsection as well as a hi-waist to smooth and contour. Meanwhile, its Torsette Bodybrief is ideal for special occasion dressing, incorporating the brand’s patented Black Magic feature to comfortably contour the waist and midriff. Wholesale prices range from £13.90 to £30 while there is no minimum order requirement; orders are despatched the same day while retailers can opt for a 2.5 per cent early payment discount.

CONTACT: Tel: 01423 885 374 E: info@patricia-eve.co.uk patricia-eve.co.uk Cupid Half Page Advert.pdf 1 18/10/2021 14:48:59

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36 | boutique. | NOVEMBER 2021

PROMOTION

Ethically made

UPDATE YOUR ACCESSORIES OFFER WITH SUZIE BLUE’S HANDMADE JEWELLERY, SCARVES, PONCHOS AND HOMEWARES

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amily-run supplier Suzie Blue specialises in ethical jewellery, accessories and homewares, which are handmade by artisan manufacturers in Bali and India using responsibly sourced materials. It offers a large range of silver plated and 925 silver jewellery pieces alongside coordinating ponchos and scarves.

Expect to find bold designs in seasonal colours, with vibrant jewel tones alongside classic grey and neutrals. Key pieces include striped wood and resin necklaces in bold hues and a statement wooden

leaf necklace in a copper mix.

This year it has also introduced its new Suzie Blue @ Home range incorporating homewares that echo the patterns and textures of some of its most popular jewellery designs.

The company offers stockists free product imagery for e-commerce use and stylised group shots and flat lays for social media. Retailers can also receive free point of sale postcards and gift bags. Wholesale prices are around £5.90 for necklaces on average while the minimum order requirement is £100 with free delivery on orders over £200.

CONTACT: Tel: 01636 704 042 suzieblue.com

Tech season

PHOTO BY BEN WHITE ON UNSPLASH

THREE SOFTWARE’S ROB FINLEY REVEALS FIVE WAYS RETAIL TECHNOLOGY CAN BOOST YOUR BUSINESS THIS CHRISTMAS AND BEYOND

1. Stock availability

While it might sound obvious, ensuring you have the correct sizes and colours in stock is essential to succeed this season. A good EPoS solution will provide data on everything you’ve previously sold, so you can ensure the best possible size matrix is available.

2. Loyalty and Customer Tracking

Remember your business is valued on its customer base, so why wouldn’t you want to keep shoppers loyal? Update customer details on your EPoS system and issue loyalty

cards, send e-receipts and offer easy returns and credit notes. Doing so will only improve your service.

3. Gift Vouchers and Gift Cards

A good EPoS system will help you issue vouchers or cards and then manage their redemption. But a proper fashion EPoS system will understand that you issue vouchers and don’t sell them – the transaction only takes place when they are redeemed.

4. Online Integration

It’s really important to have your e-commerce site properly

integrated into your EPoS system. Stock levels need to show across online and in-store and your customer base needs to be synchronised, too.

5. Returns

Make processing online returns as easy as possible for your customers.

Offer a straightforward method and – if possible – get them into your physical store. That way it’s much more likely they’ll buy something else. Plus, it will provide a better overall experience for them than having to queue with everyone else at the Post Office.

CONTACT: Tel: 0845 130 7923 E: sales@threesoftware.com threesoftware.com/lite NOVEMBER 2021 | boutique. | 37

SHOP TALK

“Customers can break out of the forward order cycle and move at their own pace with low financial risk” JOHN PEARCE IS THE OWNER OF LONDON-BASED AGENCY JOHN PEARCE FASHION What is your career background?

Like many agents I started by working with British brands and then moved into European product as the market changed and these became more dominant.

When did you start your agency and what is it’s USP?

I first became a freelance independent agent in 1976 working with Wm. Stembridge of Leeds, one of the first coordinated separates manufacturers, with the brand Dawnbreakers. How things have changed since then! Our USP is not so much that of the agency but the points of difference in our products and supply model. Our choice of brands is deliberately focused on family businesses who make their own products and all our collections are made in Europe, so are therefore not subject to UK import duty.

We also focus very much on independent retailers, offering exclusivity arrangements because we want our customers to feel safe to commit to us.

Which brands does the agency currently represent?

We work with by basics/Own and grums from Denmark as well as Andam from the Paz Torras group, which is a three-generation family business based just outside of Barcelona.

Why are your collections so suited to indies?

Independent retailers need to excite customers with fresh product and colours. With by basics/ OWN, we offer quality product and constant but incremental changes to a collection of shapes that are already proven sellers, adding and removing styles and colours to update the range. What attracted me to the brand was the product itself as well as its sustainable ethos and business model. By basics is unique, offering Scandinavianstyle garments in 60 pure merino wool colourways on a four-week order to delivery model. The pieces are available all year and made specifically for each customer with no minimum order. The collection is augmented with a bamboo and cotton (Cotton Sense) range operating on the same basis, meaning customers can break out of the forward order cycle and move at their own pace with low financial risk. Two years ago, by basics introduced OWN offering two weights of linen in 22 colours alongside cotton poplin, a merino/ cotton mix and brushed merino reversible garments. OWN cross coordinates with by basics and has taken the collection to a new level.

Complementing the collections is grums, a lifestyle brand comprising natural beauty products made from used coffee grounds and bamboo wood accessories. Then Andam from Spain is our most recent

CONTACT: Tel: 07504 117 954 E: info@jpf.london 38 | boutique. | NOVEMBER 2021

acquisition and offers contemporary coordinates. Customers who bought AW21 stock have all commented on the high quality, fit and detail. Plus, most importantly, sell through.

How popular are your brands among buyers?

The colour, style offer, quality and flexibility of supply drive strong sales for by basics/OWN. Our service and exclusive arrangements with our customers are what makes those sales grow. It’s not about grabbing orders - it’s about controlling distribution. Based on results so far, I expect Andam to follow in a similar path.

Which indies do you work with?

We work with the likes of Molly and Co in Towcester, Village Life in Kent, Burford Garden Company, Walkers of Lowestoft, Collen and Clare in Southwold, Oberon in Shrewsbury, Kings Road in Woburn and Leighton Buzzard, Willow in Knutsford, Brenda Muir in Glasgow and N. Shelly in Billericay. There’s around a hundred so far on by basics/OWN, but far fewer on Andam since it’s our first season here.

What will be your key focus for the next 12 months as a business?

Our focus for the coming year is to develop what we already have with independent retailers throughout the UK.

See us at Harrogate and INDX

BARCELONA

OWN - DENMARK

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Appointments: M: +44 (0)7504 117954 E: info@jpf.london W: www.jpf.london

NOVEMBER 2021 | boutique. | 39

PROMOTION

Winter warmers WRAP UP THIS WINTER IN HELEN MOORE’S SUPERLUXE FAUX FUR HOMEWARES AND ACCESSORIES

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elen Moore has been crafting luxurious faux fur accessories and homewares at its own factory in Devon for over 30 years.

The British brand’s creations are crafted using the finest materials while it constantly injects newness into its range with fresh patterns and colourways. Whether your customers want vibrant faux fur scarves, slipper boots or a beautiful animal print cushion to curl up with, its line encompasses covetable options for everyone. Hero pieces for AW21 include its sumptuous

king-size throws and giant bean bags, which will add drama to any home décor. Meanwhile, standout colourways include its super-soft pale pink Blossom Cloud faux fur, available in its hot water bottle cover and slipper boots. The brand also offers a bespoke service for stockists so buyers can create an exclusive range for their customer base. Free swatches available for delivery; wholesale prices start from £14 while the minimum requirement for new orders is £300 (carriage paid over £500) with a £5 admin on top-ups under £50.

CONTACT: Tel: 01884 860 900 trade.helenmoore.com

New from Boutique Boutique Social Media Masterplan and guide Created xclusively or ndependent etailers…

If you would like more information please email julie@bpmedialtd.co.uk 40 | boutique. | NOVEMBER 2021

Seamless shopping

PROMOTION

CITRUS-LIME’S ECOMMERCE CLICK & COLLECT SERVICE IS A SIMPLE TOOL TO DRIVE ONLINE SALES

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ata provided by Statista revealed that up to 87 per cent of UK households made online purchases in 2020. This is the highest rate in the past 11 years and testament to how the internet is now the driving force behind shopping intention.

To meet the challenge, your boutique’s e-commerce offer needs to be instinctive and integrated with your stock management system.

But it’s not just about having a great online presence. These days retailers need to provide customers with an easy way to shop with their business.

And click-and-collect is a convenient method of making sure your products are accessible to customers.

Built into Cloud POS, CitrusLime’s Ecommerce Click & Collect service provides a seamless shopping experience and useful alternative to incurring the expense of delivery. It also guarantees that a customer’s visit to your store isn’t wasted - the item they want will be there.

For you as a retailer, Click & Collect reduces the operational cost of delivery and returns. It also encourages impulse buys when customers come into store to pick up items, as well as facilitating

the opportunity for you to connect and build a relationship with them.

Shopping online is now the 24-hours a day, seven days a week norm. By offering the convenience of CitrusLime’s Ecommerce Click & Collect, your customers can buy the things they want from you so you can keep your business moving forward.

CONTACT: citruslime.com

020 8211 9960

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NOVEMBER 2021 | boutique. | 41

DOWN TO BUSINESS

Down to Business INSIGHT FOR FASHION INDIES

Budget planning

W

hile many retailers were hoping for more financial support in 2021’s Autumn Statement, Rishi Sunak did deliver some good news for the new year. We reveal the key changes that will affect your business in 2022 and beyond…

STEVE SMITH ON UNSPLASH NOVEMBER 2021 | boutique. | 43

DOWN TO BUSINESS

11 things we learned

from the Autumn Statement WILL YOUR BUSINESS BE ANY BETTER OFF FOLLOWING THE GOVERNMENT’S LATEST ANNOUNCEMENTS? HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW… 1. This government will never abolish business rates Despite calls from industry insiders, chancellor Rishi Sunak made it clear that there will be no permanent reduction in business rates from this government. He said: “Reckless, unfunded promises to abolish a tax which raises £25 billion a year are completely irresponsible. It would be wrong to find £25 billion a year in extra borrowing, cuts to public services or tax rises elsewhere, so we’ll 44 | boutique. | NOVEMBER 2021

retain business rates – but with key reform to ease the burden and create stronger high streets.”

2. Rates will be reviewed every three years

Following criticism that the fiveyear revaluation period for business rates is too long, Sunak said it would “make the system fairer and timelier with more frequent revaluations every three years.” A new revaluation cycle will be delivered from 2023.

3. Retailers will be able to improve their properties and pay no extra rates for one year

Sunak also said the government will introduce a new business rates improvement relief from 2023, meaning every business can invest in their properties and pay no extra business rates for one year. He also announced a new investment relief to encourage businesses to adopt green technologies like solar panels. But Bira

DOWN TO BUSINESS 7. Small business relief will be extended

The government plans to begin a consultation on transitional relief in 2022, which limits the amount business rates can change each year following a revaluation. Any changes will commence following the revaluation in 2023, with the next scheme set to be confirmed next autumn. The supporting small business scheme will also be extended by the same period.

8. A wider reform of business rates is still pending

More changes are expected from the government to “improve the (business rates) system.” This includes a consultation on online sales tax, which could raise revenue to fund a reduction in other business rates.

9. Many shoppers will have less money to spend next year

CEO Andrew Goodacre cautions: “The problem is that 2022 will more about survival than investment.”

4. The planned multiplier increase has been cancelled Sunak also announced that the multiplier for calculating business rates will be frozen for 2022 and 2023, which will save UK firms a total of £4.6 billion over the next five years.

He said: “Without action, millions of businesses would see their tax bills going up next year because of inflation. I want to help those business right now.”

5. Rates will be discounted for an extra year

The chancellor also announced a freeze to the planned business rates rise this April, offering a one-year discount of up to 50 per cent. “Apart from the covid reliefs, this is the biggest single-year cut to business rates in 30 years,” he said. “This year’s Budget cuts business

rates by £7 billion. This is the way to back business and build a strong economy.” However, industry insiders say the measure doesn’t go far enough: “Reducing rates by 50 per cent next year is in fact a 100 per cent increase on what businesses are actually paying,” explains Goodacre. “This is because the rates bill for this year was reduced to 25 per cent (of normal levels) in response to covid.

So, on top of everything else, this will be a challenge for small retailers.”

6. Rates will be based on outdated rateable values for the next two years

The planned 2021 business rates revaluation was postponed because of covid, with the government announcing this will now take place in 2023. Finance experts are concerned, arguing retailers will continue paying rates based on rateable values (based on annual rent) set in 2015, which could be significantly higher than they should be, for the next two years.

Most of the UK’s workforce will be worse off financially next year because of the hike in National Insurance (unless they are on the minimum wage). An employed person earning £40,000 a year, for example, will pay £340 more national insurance, which could affect their disposable income.

10. The minimum wage is rising

Retailers paying staff the minimum wage will need to find more funds next year with rises planned to come into effect in April. The rate for workers aged over 23 will rise to £9.50 an hour while those aged from 21-22 will receive £9.18.

11. The government is tackling the supply chain crisis To address the driver shortage, Sunak said the Transport Secretary will introduce temporary visas for overseas workers. It will also tackle testing backlogs, change cabotage requirements, earmark new funding to improve lorry park facilities, extend the HGV levy until 2023 and freeze Vehicle Excise Duty for heavy goods vehicles.

NOVEMBER 2021 | boutique. | 45

STAR

AWARD S

2022

We are back!

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SHOP TALK

Shop Talk

INDUSTRY OPINION

Bright ideas

S THE WOMEN’S SOCIETY BOUTIQUE

ince opening her boutique 15 years ago, former fashion buyer Victoria Rex-Lees has steered the business through several challenges - including a recession and pandemic. We speak to the owner to find out why she’s feeling optimistic about 2022…

NOVEMBER 2021 | boutique. | 49

SHOP TALK

High society THE WOMEN’S SOCIETY BOUTIQUE OWNER VICTORIA REX-LEES REVEALS THE STORY BEHIND HER 15-YEAR-OLD BUSINESS Housed inside a beautiful Grade II listed building, Hertford’s The Women’s Society Boutique has recently celebrated its fifteenth year in business. The indie stocks womenswear and accessories from high-end labels including Essentiel Antwerp, Fabienne Chapot and Pyrus.

Here we speak to owner Victoria RexLees to learn about the challenges she’s facing as an independent business as well as how she celebrated the store’s recent milestone…

What is your career background?

I studied retail management at university before landing my first job at BHS head office. I was in the buying team for the Christmas department, 50 | boutique. | NOVEMBER 2021

which gave me a good solid grounding in retail. I learned a lot while I was there on everything from costing break downs to choosing the right products.

While there I also met my would-be business partner Dave Willis. In 2006, we joined forces and opened The Women’s Society Boutique.

What’s the story behind The Women’s Society Boutique?

I had recently moved to New Hartford and a shop unit became available, so everything fell into place. We started off with a perfume counter where shoppers could create their own fragrances. Customers could buy everything in the shop, including the furniture. After a while we evolved

VICTORIA REX-LEES

the business and branched out into clothes, candles and other products.

As time moved on it became clear that clothing was where the heart of the business was, so we took away the perfume counter and focused on fashion. We did open another store in 2008, but it closed because of the recession. It was a learning curve, so I don’t regret it.

How have things changed since you first started?

When I first opened the boutique at 25 years old, retail was a completely different kettle of fish. We had a website but there was no e-commerce at that time; we didn’t even have Facebook back then! I bought out my partner around 2014, so I’ve been on

SHOP TALK

my own for about eight years. With everything online now, I never stop working - it’s constant. Our team players must be multi-skilled in every area. It’s a tough industry, but it’s incredibly rewarding.

What are your best-selling brands?

We sell premium to high-end labels at The Women’s Society Boutique, with a few lower priced brands too. There are some private schools in the area, so our target market is quite affluent.

We brought Essentiel Antwerp into the store a few seasons ago and it’s well established now and is doing very well.

French brand Fabienne Chapot is also a strong seller for us as well as Pyrus, which we’ve carried for 14 years. We do have some more affordable brands too such as Soaked in Luxury.

What kind of products are selling well in the boutique at the moment?

Sales of coats, winter boots and scarves have picked up now the weather has changed. There’s been more of an interest in outfits for weddings too, so occasionswear sales are picking up. We’re also selling lots of gifts for Christmas like accessories, scarves,

hats and gloves; in fact, we’re already selling out of a lot of lines.

British brand Sirens arrived recently and our customers are loving its bright colours and easy-fit flattering designs.

We’re also doing more partywear this season such as sequinned pieces for Christmas.

How has the pandemic affected the business and how did you adapt?

We were already selling online and on Trouva before the pandemic, but e-commerce wasn’t a priority. When we went into the first lockdown I’d just had a baby, so I couldn’t dedicate as much time as other indies to growing our social media and online business. Really, during that time, I was treading water; all of my staff went onto furlough and I started delivering local orders with my newborn in the back of the car! I moved stock to my house and started doing social media from my home office, broadcasting

live videos or recording content when I could fit it in. In some ways it was a great time as I didn’t have the day-today stress of managing the shop. It was also lovely to be able to spend so much time speaking to and delivering orders to our customers.

How did you celebrate your 15-year anniversary in September?

After spending our thirteenth birthday in lockdown it’s been great to be able to celebrate this one properly. We held two events: one for our gold customers and one open to the general public.

Our first was a private shopping evening for our most loyal customers; they were given a first look at the AW21 collections and a discount.

NOVEMBER 2021 | boutique. | 51

SHOP TALK They also received a goody bag when they spent over £150. It was very popular and just really lovely to have everyone back in the shop. The changing rooms were packed and our customers loved being able to shop without wearing masks. We also held another event for all our other customers from Friday to Saturday, with 15 per cent off everything in store. The private event was definitely more of a success. September can be a tricky month depending on the weather. You also need to time your deliveries correctly and get cashflow right. But I really love September, it’s like the start of the year for us as it’s when we roll out new brands and everything feels really fresh.

What challenges are you facing as a business at the moment?

The petrol crisis was a challenge. We saw sales dip during that period and can only put it down to that. If there are any external influences, then we are getting hit. For instance, if prices of petrol go up and stay high, that will have an impact on us. It may mean that people stay at home and don’t go out shopping, or on the flip side some might shop locally instead of visiting city centres. The supply chain issue seems to have evened out now and we have received lots of new deliveries.

We’ve had the odd style cancelled from brands but no orders.

What are your plans for the Christmas period?

We’ll be hosting a private styling presentation evening with up to 30 guests, private shopping slots from the middle of November and a three-day shopping weekend with discounts.

Our shopping event will tie in with the town’s Christmas shopping and light switch-on evening, so we can piggyback on their campaign to shop local. The local BID is putting money behind advertising the event, which will hopefully pull in footfall. It also falls at the same time as Black Friday so eliminates the need for us to do anything specific and works better for our business. Historically, we always 52 | boutique. | NOVEMBER 2021

ran an event that weekend. With Small Business Saturday, we’ll see how our own event goes and react accordingly – we may do something with particular brands. American Express is very good for cashback incentives on Small Business Saturday, so we usually get a lift in sales anyway through that.

What are your plans for next year?

We’ll see how things go before we finalise plans for 2022. If our customers are wary about mixing because of rising covid cases, then that will have an impact on what we do. I think we’ve learnt that we need to be a bit loose with our plans. I have bought in for a lot more events as I think they will be starting again for SS22. We will be bringing in more occasionwear pieces that can be dressed up or down.

Locally, there’s a market for events as there’s races nearby and then our customers will be attending weddings and weddings abroad. I think there will be a real shift next year. We also have some lovely new occasionwear brands arriving next year and I can’t wait for them to come in.

What do you hope to achieve in the next 15 years?

I still want to grow the business and want to grow online. I wouldn’t rule out another bricks-and-mortar location too. I’m feeling optimist about next spring. Summer weather is always positive for people’s mindsets and there will be a lot more occasions next year. I feel quite lucky that we are situated in a relatively affluent area near London that has not been as hard hit as some. A lot more people are moving up here from the capital, so we have lots of new customers. Moving forward, we’ll be making sure we work on maintaining those and giving them the best possible experience.

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NOVEMBER 2021 | boutique. | 53

SHOP TALK

“Covid has had a very negative effect on the fashion business generally but boom times will be back with a bang for SS22” CATHY VANDEPUTTE IS THE OWNER OF LONDON-BASED AGENCY AND SHOWROOM PARTNERS IN FASHION What is your career background?

I started my career in the fashion industry in 1980 selling French childrenswear brand Createx Jeunesse and went onto sell JAF dresses. Both of these brands were part of the Rodier group. After seven years I moved to John Marks eveningwear and then went to Partners in Fashion in 1988.

The rest, as they say, is history.

When did you take over Partners in Fashion and what appealed to you about the agency?

I took over the agency in 2019. The appeal was the very good bond I’d built with customers and the brands that I’d been selling for Chris and Monika Bartscht for over 30 years. It was a natural evolution for me.

How has the company evolved since you took over?

It has pretty much remained as it was with the same brands, plus the addition of Maria Villalobos dresses from Spain and the return of Frank Walder to our portfolio. I have also kept all of our loyal staff, ensuring continuity for customers.

Which brands are on your roster and how would you describe each of them?

Our brands include Erfo, offering very commercially priced blouses and dresses; Just White, which produces fantastic blouses, twin sets, dresses and tunics; lifestyle brand Frank 54 | boutique. | NOVEMBER 2021

Walder offering commercial trousers, skirts, jackets and dresses; best-selling German trousers and skirts brand Toni and Relaxed by Toni; Rabe, which is a commercial knitwear brand from Germany; Lecomte specialising in commercial and luxurious knitwear from Germany; and Spain’s Maria Villalobos offering competitively priced dresses for every occasion.

disastrous 2021 season due to covid.

We are seeing many more customers returning to the showroom, which they are loving, and we have also gained many new customers for next year. The general feeling was for colour and more colour in relaxed easy-to-wear pieces.

Why do your brands appeal to independent retailers?

Our brands have extremely good NOS offers and we also offer promotional packages and promotional days with our retailers.

We have a full-time London showroom so we are there to support our customers at all times.

Our labels are all shown in our London showroom where buyers can put their own looks together. Plus, they all have exceptional sell-through rates. We look very closely at our best-sellers lists for our territory so that customers feel confident at the advice they get from us.

How do you work with your brands to ensure their collections will sell well in the UK?

We work very closely with the current market trends and the wishes of our customers. Each season all manufacturers get a very detailed and concise market report and individual collection reports of what has been good and what hasn’t been so good for our market. They also get our wish lists for the following season.

What has sold particularly well for SS22?

All of our brands have sold extremely well for Summer 2022, resulting in a huge increase in our turnover after a

What support do you offer your stockists?

Do you think retailers are optimistic about next season?

Customers definitely under-bought for winter 2021 and our brands have been selling extremely well for AW21. Customers are looking forward to AW22 when covid will hopefully be a distant memory and independent boutiques will grow stronger again.

What are you most looking forward to about SS22 and AW22?

Getting back to normal. Covid has had a very negative effect on the fashion business generally but boom times will be back with a bang for SS22, particularly with consumers going on holidays and to weddings and other events.

The Very Best Of Fashion Under One Roof ERFO • FRANK WALDER • JUST WHITE • LECOMTE • MARIA VILLALOBOS (NEW) RABE • RELAXED BY TONI • TONI • YOU BY JUST WHITE

All collections will be in our London showroom or we are very well equiped for virtual appointments.

35 Percy Street, London W1T 2DQ T: 020-7636-4207 • E: sales@partnersinfashion.co.uk

www.partnersinfashion.com

BUYER’S GUIDE Accessories Brit-Stitch Ltd. Traditionally Tomorrow Beautiful leather bags and accessories lovingly made in Britain Contact: Bek Brooks T: 01873 852 742 E: info@brit-stitch.com, E: orders@brit-stitch.com W: www.brit-stitch.com Instagram: @britstitchuk

Capri Clothing +44 203 819 0819 sales@capriclothing.co.uk www.capriclothingonline.com

Celtic & Co. Inspired by nature, crafted for life Contact: Clare Whitworth T: 01637 852541 E: trade@celticandco.com

Euroleathers Euroleathers are a supplier of premium shoe and leather care products and accessories.

HQ: Ibex House, Ferrofields, Brixworth, Northampton NN6 9UA T: 01604 881 097 E: sales@euroleathers.com W: www.euroleathers.com

From My Mothers Garden Contact name Penny Callaghan T: 07825 148040 / 01308 426517 E: info@frommymothersgarden.co.uk W: www.frommymothersgarden.co.uk

56 | boutique. | NOVEMBER 2021

Scream Pretty Company name - Lily Charmed Ltd Brand names - Scream Pretty Contact name - Lucy Lee T: 01753 424160 E: trade@screampretty.com W: tradescreampretty.com / screampretty.com

S’ip by S’well Brands: S’ip by S’well + S’nack by S’well Contact: Anna Green, T: 0203 540 7799 E: agreen@swellbottle.co.uk W: www.sipbyswell.com

Tempest Designs Fashion Jewellery, Handbags & Accessories Contact: Sarah Tempest T: 01656 842102 E: enquiries@tempestdesigns.co.uk W: www.tempestdesigns.co.uk

Events and Exhibitions Boutique Star Awards Organiser : Boutique Professional Media Ltd T: Tel 01795 515288 E: Julie@bpmedialtd.co.uk

Harrogate Fashion Week Harrogate Convention Centre W: harrogatefashionweek.com T: +44 (0)1423 623 701 / 07551329675 E: sarah@harrogatefashionweek.com

Home and Gift Harrogate Convention Centre Organiser : Clarion Events W: homeandgift.co.uk

Indx womenswear and footwear Cranmore Park Exhibition Centre Organiser :indx shows W: www.indxshows.co.uk

Business Futura Retail Solutions Ltd The Old Forge, The Street, Tidmarsh, Reading, Berkshire, RG8 8ER T: 01189 841925 E: sales@futurauk.com W: www.futura4retail.co.uk

Top Drawer Olympia – London Organiser :Clarion Events W: topdrawer.co.uk

Footwear Top To Toe Senator house, 2 Graham Road, London, NW4 3HJ Software Systems T: 020 3376 5888 E: info@toptotoe.com

Caprice Shoes T: 07734 247 669 E: Capriceshoes@gmail.com W: www.capriceshoes.co.uk Facebook: /capriceshoes

BUYER’S GUIDE Extravagance Brands: Marco Moreo shoes Contact: Nazma Chaudhry T: 07881 622 888 E: nazmachaudhry@gmail.com

Laceys Footwear T: 0207 7390 398 E: michael@laceysfootwear.com W: www.laceysfootwear.co.uk

Lofina www.shoebox.dk Agent: Joanna Edwards Agency T: 07989014141/ 07512550346

Womenswear Apt Collections : Brands : Alembika, Alquema, Elsewhere, Igor, Ozai n Ku, Philomena Christ Contact : Nigel Hughes T: 020 7580 3202 W: www.aptcollections.co.uk

Capri Clothing T: +44 203 819 0819 sales@capriclothing.co.uk capriclothingonline.com

City Goddess/Goddiva/ Goddiva plus T: 0044 208 597 2744 E: sales@citygoddess.co.uk W: www.citygoddess.co.uk

Extravagance Brands: Sarah Pacini, Thanny, Caraclan, Marco Moreo shoes Contact: Nazma Chaudhry T: 07881 622 888 E: nazmachaudhry@gmail.com W: www.sarahpacini.com W: www.ny77design.com

From My Mothers Garden Contact name Penny Callaghan T: 07825 148040 / 01308 426517 E: info@frommymothersgarden.co.uk W: www.frommymothersgarden.co.uk

Leap N Link Ltd Brands: Meri Esca, Pause Café Olivier Philips, Blue’D’Azur, Fuego Contact : Pierre & Bhavna T: 0161 713 1803 E: info@leapnlink.co.uk W:www.leapnlink.co.uk

Lily & Me Amari Designs Ltd, Unit 15, Gabwell Business Park, Quadrant Distribution Centre, Hardwicke, Gloucester, GL2 2JH T: 01566 779477 / 01566 772121 E: enquiries@lilyandmeclothing.com info@lilyandmeclothing.com W: www.lilyandmeclothing.com

MDA INTERNATIONAL Brands: Mama B, Mes Soeurs Et Moi, Kedziorek, Thing, La Bottega Di Brunella, Baci & Amici.

Email : office@mdainternational. co.uk T: General: 020 7971 1084 Hannah: 07813925975 Phil: 07908634814 W: www.mdainternational.co.uk Instagram: mdainternational

Nomads 9 Western Road, Launceston, Cornwall, PL15 7AR Contact: Shallon and Jo T: 01566 777 338 E: info@nomadsclothing.co.uk W: www.nomadsclothing.com

Partners In Fashion (2019) LTD Brands: Erfo, Just White, Lecomte, Rabe, Relaxed By Toni, Toni, Frank Walder – You by Just White – Maria Villalobos 35 Percy Street London W1T 2DQ Contact: Cathy Vandeputte T: 020 7636 4207 E: cathy.vandeputte@ partnersinfashion.co.uk W: www.partnersinfashion.com

Sarah Tempest/ Tempest Designs Italian Clothing Supplier Contact: Sarah Tempest T; 01656 842102 E: enquiries@tempestdesigns.co.uk W: www.tempestdesigns.co.uk Tate Fashions Brands: Lizabella, I.nco, Ella Boo, Bella Premium & Gracie B E: tatefashions@hotmail.com T: 07712398549 01132459064

Tor Fashion Brands : Cream T: 07855 481651 E: info@torfashion.co.uk sales@torfashion.co.uk

NOVEMBER 2021 | boutique. | 57

SHOP TALK

“Businesses remain vulnerable with depleted cash reserves, high inflationary pressures and paying down covidincurred debt” HARI KRISHNADASAN, MD AT CAPRI CLOTHING, DISCUSSES THE GOVERNMENT’S 2021 AUTUMN BUDGET

“C

hancellor Rishi Sunak delivered his Autumn Budget last month pledging to create a new postcovid economy. In a bid to retain businesses and ‘create stronger high streets’, the chancellor announced a one-year 50 per cent discount on business rates for retail, hospitality and leisure businesses in England.

“The package of measures announced on business rates relief will bring some welcome temporary relief to our high streets, but only demonstrate how badly further fundamental reform is needed.

“In a joint statement ahead of the chancellor’s post-lockdown Budget, the CBI and 41 other trade groups demanded fundamental changes to the system, which taxes companies based on the value of their premises.

But Sunak confirmed he will not scrap business rates, citing that he would need to plug the £25 billion gap it would create by raising taxes and cutting services.

“From 2023, a new relief will support investment in property improvements so that no business will face higher rates bills for 12 months after making’ qualifying improvement’ to their property.

This will give a significant boost to investment in revitalised, more sustainable town centres and support transition to net zero. Wider reforms could be possible in the future as the 58 | boutique. | NOVEMBER 2021

PHOTO BY PHILIP VEATER ON UNSPLASH

government is said to be exploring a UK-wide online sales tax. It’s hoped that revenue from a new online sales tax could reduce business rates.

“Businesses remain vulnerable with depleted cash reserves, high inflationary pressures and paying down covid-incurred debt such as Bounce Back Loans. Supply chain problems persist, the furlough scheme has just ended and there are serious concerns about further restrictions. A 50 per cent discount for retailers - not

suppliers - will help some struggling high street businesses, but not all.

“By capping the 50 per cent high street discount at £110k, the measure will mean little to city centre businesses. For a West End store, for example, it will result in under a 1 per cent cut in their business rates bills for just one year. While it will no doubt be good news for many retailers across the country, some say it doesn’t go far enough to help companies ride out the pandemic.”

Be seen Be heard

emerging brand emerging brand

screampretty.com • tradescreampretty.com 01753 424160 sales@screampretty.com screampretty.com • tradescreampretty.com 01753 424160 sales@screampretty.com

www.capriclothingonline.com • sales@capriclothing.co.uk • Tel: 0203 819 0819 60 | boutique. | NOVEMBER 2021