Apparel and Footwear Retailers: Diversifying Strategies to Engage Global Consumers

How are Retailers Seeking to Broaden their Reach?

As global consumers express evolving preferences and exhibit new purchasing behaviors, retailers, particularly those within the apparel and footwear specialty, have undertaken a diverse array of strategies to better engage at an international level. These efforts span beyond simply increasing store numbers or making digital forays, and delve into optimized omnichannel offerings, tailored localization strategies, sustainable production and marketing practices, and data-driven consumer engagement.

What Role is Sustainability Playing?

Alongside facilitating broader market reach, many retailers have also seen the importance of integrating appropriate responses to growing consumer concern over sustainability and ethical business practices. The use of sustainable materials in production, promises of fair labor practices, recycling, and corporate commitments to reducing environmental footprints can be key strategies. Positioned properly, these initiatives could strengthen brand credibility, and foster trust and loyalty among the more environmentally-conscious consumer segment.

How are Data and Analytics being Leveraged?

Taking a step beyond broad strategies, retailers in the apparel and footwear industry are also leveraging advanced data analytics for bespoke customer engagement. Robust back-end systems capable of capturing, analyzing, and responding to individual consumer data allow them to offer personalized product suggestions, price discounts, and targeted marketing strategies. Not only can these techniques boost short-term sales, but they are also an investment towards deepening long-term customer relationships through personalized experiences.