Sandy Parker Reports: Fur stores weighing ways to combat economy, higher prices

SANDY PARKER REPORT, VOL. 35, ISSUE 31, OCTOBER 17, 2011

The following extract is reproduced with permission from Sandy Parker Reports, Weekly International Fur News. Sandy Parker has been covering the fur industry for more than four decades. For most of that time he has published a weekly newsletter, detailing results of international pelt auctions, wholesale price trends, business developments and movements in the trade, as well as economic and political activities that may impact on it.

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International Fur News
with Sandy Parker

Fur stores weighing ways to combat economy, higher prices

AMERICAN FUR RETAILERS VIEW THE SEASON AHEAD AS MORE DIFFICULT because of the economy in general and higher prices in particular. They’re resigned to working harder because of tough economic conditions and the higher price structure and are prepared for dimmer earnings prospects.

At this point, they are still grappling with advertising and promotion plans, which typically get under way in the next few weeks. While some are planning no change in their approach, others say they may be more aggressive in their advertising or pricing. Local television, including nearby ‘hot spots’ reachable by cable TV were mentioned, as were more telephone and direct-mail efforts.

Others favored the face-to-face techniques, including fashion show tie-ins with local social and charitable events. Invitations to in-store presentations with offers of discounts or gifts were being considered. A few mentioned that what they saved by merchandising more conservatively this year might be put toward increased promotion.

IN THIS ISSUE

Economy, Prices Posing Hurdles
Stores Weighing Ways to Combat
U.S. Senate Moves on Weak Yuan…
…but House Is Seen Balking
NAFA Ups Shipper Rebates

For extracts from back issues of Sandy Parker Reports see News Index. Subscribers can access an archive of complete issues at www.sandyparker.com.

For further information contact Fur Commission USA.

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