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Warm Winter Drove U.S. Fur Retail Sales Down in 2006
Fur Information Council of America releases latest statistics
U.S. retail fur sales fell 12% in 2006 from a year earlier, according to the latest survey results released by the Fur Information Council of America (FICA). The annual survey covers only sales through traditional fur retailers who form FICA's membership, and does not cover sales through department stores and other outlets.
Reflecting the impact of one of the warmest winters in recorded history, sales of fur and fur-trimmed apparel and accessories, and services such as storage, cleaning and remodeling, came to $1.61 billion. This was down from $1.82 billion the year before, and saw an end to four straight years of increases. However, it was still significantly higher than any year's sales recorded in the 1990s (see chart).
In addition to being negatively impacted by the weather, retailers also saw a decline in sales of more expensive heavier coats and other outerwear, with "strength in fashion pieces, designer goods and ultra-luxe garments," said FICA. "A decrease in average price per unit along with increases in reported store traffic suggest that unit sales volume remained strong."
FICA also noted that the number of outlets handling fur, but which do not fall under the survey, has been increasing. "Distribution continues to expand as fur appears in more areas within department stores as well as at multi-line specialty goods retailers and designer boutiques," it reported.
See also:
Firm auction prices for mink spur increased breeding. FCUSA analysis of latest USDA data, July 19, 2007.
Global fur sales up for eigth straight year. International Fur Trade Federation press release, Mar. 9, 2007.
For further information contact: Teresa Platt, Executive Director, Fur Commission USA, PMB 506, 826 Orange Avenue, Coronado, CA 92118-2698 USA, (619) 575-0139, (619) 575-5578/fax, furfarmers@aol.com, www.furcommission.com.
To take a cyber-tour of a fur farm, visit Fur Commission USA's Fur on Film at http://www.furcommission.com/video/index.htm