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M&S to showcase Autumn Collection at Lakme Fashion Week X FDCI

For the first time ever, British retailer, Marks & Spencer, (M&S) plans to participate in one of India’s most coveted events, Lakmē Fashion Week X FDCI.

At this event, Marks & Spencer will showcase its Autumn collection on Oct 11, 2024, embodying the brand’s perfect blend of style, quality and comfort.

A perfect blend of modern trends with elegance, the curated collection will offer easy-to-wear pieces. Designed to elevate any wardrobe, the range will include everything from cosy knitwear, sophisticated outerwear to versatile casual wear.

Anna Braithwaite, M&S Clothing and Home Marketing Director, says, embracing the ‘Big Autumn Energy, the autumn collection channels a larger than life image of the customer as he prepares to take on the new season with confidence and style. The collection offers wide range spanning from seasonal essentials like denim, knitwear and outerwear, to key style pieces like the blue velvet suit.

The brand’s campaign to endorse this collection features Dominican model Lineisy Montero and is bold and playful in nature.

M&S to showcase Autumn Collection at Lakme Fashion Week X FDCI

Icra forecasts 15% revenue increase for fashion retailers in FY25

Fashion retailers are projected to achieve revenue growth of up to 15 per cent in FY25, driven by network expansion, according to Icra. Despite facing inflationary pressures, the sector maintains a stable outlook, with operating profit margins expected to range between 13-14 per cent.
Icra reports that the anticipated revenue growth is bolstered by the festive season and new store openings. The ratings agency also notes a potential for marginal sales growth in Q2 FY25, especially as the festive season transitions into Q3.
After experiencing a slowdown in demand since Q4 FY23, fashion retailers in Icra's sample set reported an 18 per cent year-on-year sales growth in Q1 FY25, primarily due to expanding store networks and new product launches. However, the premium segment faced a 3 per cent contraction in average sales per square foot during the June quarter, while value fashion segments have recovered to pre-pandemic levels.
Despite flat margins year-on-year, attributed to rising advertising and promotional expenses, retailers have minimized discount levels since Q2 FY24 to protect gross margins. Sakshi Suneja, Vice President & Sector Head at Icra, highlighted that retailers are increasing spending on advertisements and promotions, particularly with the festive season approaching.

Icra forecasts 15% revenue increase for fashion retailers in FY25

Live streaming takes centerstage in Indian fashion e-commerce

The Indian e-commerce market is witnessing a dynamic shift with the rise of live streaming. This interactive format is revolutionizing the way fashion, apparel, and lifestyle brands connect with consumers.
Live streaming platforms like Myntra's M-Live and Flipkart Live allow brands and influencers to host real-time video sessions. These sessions showcase products, offer styling tips, answer audience questions in real-time, and create a sense of urgency through limited-time deals. Viewers can seamlessly transition from watching to buying within the platform itself.
The allure of live streaming
Live streaming goes beyond product display. It fosters a sense of community and entertainment with consumers. A RedSeer Consulting report says, "Live commerce is expected to reach a gross merchandise value of $4-5 billion by 2025 in India," with fashion and beauty leading the charge. Live streaming helps in:
Engagement and entertainment: Live streams are inherently interactive. Viewers can ask questions, participate in polls, and engage with the host, creating a fun and informative experience.
Building trust: Live interaction allows brands to showcase product authenticity and answer queries in real-time, fostering trust with potential buyers.
Personalized shopping experience: Influencers can tailor their content to specific demographics, offering personalized recommendations and styling tips that resonate with viewers.
The Indian live commerce landscape
While China has been a pioneer in live commerce, India is catching up rapidly as the RedSeer report suggests. The key difference between the markets is China has a well-established live streaming ecosystem with dedicated platforms and tech infrastructure. India is still developing its live streaming infrastructure within existing e-commerce platforms. Studies suggest live streaming can significantly boost sales and conversions. A McKinsey & Company report states live commerce resulted in conversion rates 3-5 times higher than traditional e-commerce.
In India, Myntra launched M-Live in 2021 featuring popular influencers showcasing fashion and beauty products. This interactive format has garnered significant user engagement and positive brand perception. Similarly, Flipkart introduced ‘Flipkart Live’ focusing on a wider range of categories, including fashion. Live streams featuring celebrities and influencers have driven sales and brand awareness. Nykaa regularly hosts live sessions with makeup artists and beauty influencers, resulting in increased engagement and sales for new product launches.
Live streaming is still in its early stages in India, but its potential is undeniable. As internet penetration deepens and consumers seek more interactive shopping experiences, one can expect this innovative format to revolutionize the fashion e-commerce landscape.

Live streaming takes centerstage in Indian fashion e-commerce

US Polo Assn partners with Zepto for quick fashion delivery

In a significant development for the quick-commerce sector, US Polo Assn (USPA), the official brand of the United States Polo Association, has partnered with Zepto, India's fastest-growing consumer internet platform known for its 10-minute delivery service. This collaboration introduces USPA's exclusive collection to Zepto's platform, marking its expansion into premium apparel and fashion.
Aadit Palicha, co-founder and CEO of Zepto, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, highlighting that USPA represents premium quality and timeless style. He emphasized that this collaboration is a pivotal moment as Zepto expands into the fashion and lifestyle sector, aiming to provide greater convenience to fashion shoppers across India.
Shailesh Chaturvedi, MD & CEO of Arvind Fashions Limited, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the blend of USPA's sporty style with Zepto's rapid delivery. He noted that this partnership offers a new level of accessibility and convenience for modern consumers.
USPA’s curated collection is now available on Zepto, featuring timeless apparel like classic polo shirts and casualwear. This initiative represents a significant evolution in quick-commerce, allowing Zepto users to access premium fashion alongside essentials.
Whether ordering a polo shirt before an event or casualwear for an outing, customers can enjoy the unmatched convenience of fast delivery without compromising on style. This partnership not only enhances Zepto's offerings but also sets a new trend in the intersection of fashion and quick commerce.

US Polo Assn partners with Zepto for quick fashion delivery

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