NATIONAL: Tough trading conditions are forcing retailers to adopt an early discounting strategy. Fashion retailers across Sydney have begun discounting winter stock despite the season officially kicking in just yesterday, the Daily Telegraph has reported.
Department store Myer has reportedly launched its 'Winter Savings' campaign, with discounts of up to 25 per cent off women's clothing and accessories. Boutique retailer Tuchuzy, which stocks leading brands such as Ellery, Shakuhachi, Cheap Monday, Life With Bird and Tigerlily, has dropped prices on its autumn/winter 2008 collections by up to 50 per cent.
Australian Retailers Association spokesman Michael Lonie told The Daily Telegraph many other fashion boutiques were considering early discounting.
"There is the attitude that you are better taking off 20 to 30 per cent off now than 60 or 70 per cent off at the end of the season."