The following are highlights from the Sandy Parker Reports, Weekly International Fur News, reproduced with permission. Sandy Parker has been covering the fur industry for over 40 years. For the last 30 years he has published a weekly newsletter, detailing the results of all the major international pelt auctions, wholesale price trends, business developments and movements within the trade, as well as economic and political activities that may impact on it.

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International Fur News
with Sandy Parker

NAFFEM prospects seen clouded

BOTH EXHIBITORS AND VISITORS ATTENDING THE NORTH AMERICAN FUR & FASHION EXPOSITION in Montreal this week are approaching the event with somewhat more apprehension than in previous years. While there is confidence among vendors who say they have done their homework, they also are aware that American retailers - traditionally the main supporters of the fair - are not in the greatest of buying moods. Although most of them came through a decent retail season, many are still carrying more inventory than they would feel comfortable with and are in no hurry to augment it. There is a strong feeling that this fair will see fewer actual orders and more number-taking for later consideration.

Arguably the main cloud hovering over NAFFEM is the American economy, which is believed to be at least at the beginning of a recession, and its potential impact on consumer spending - particularly for luxuries. There already has been a noticeable belt tightening by consumers that has been attributed to higher gasoline and food prices, as well as tighter credit.

WHAT RETAILERS WILL BE LOOKING FOR AT NAFFEM will be fashion and novelty - in short, anything to spice up their current stocks and make them appear fresh. Not that last year's styles look old, but that last year's shoppers who may have postponed their purchases because should not be turned off again, this time because they see nothing new. Most say they will be concentrating on light-weight garments, including sheareds and reversibles, but also novelties, accessories and small pieces that can sell as impulse items. But they will also be interested in fresh-looking jackets and strollers. They have little interest in long coats, their vaults already holding enough, but if they see a striking item they might buy one or two.

IN THIS ISSUE:

NAFFEM Prospects Seen Clouded
U.S. Sagging Economy Blamed
Vendors Expect Tough Selling
Stores Approaching Cautiously
Sable Prices at New Peak

For back issues of Sandy Parker Reports see News Index.

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