What is the key to resilience in the retail space?
As Ragtrader Live prepares to kick off tomorrow, ragtrader.com.au reveals wise words from retail groups and consultants taking part on the day.
"Specialty Fashion Group started its life as Millers Fashion Club in times of recession. Comparing the times, I think you could start a business today, but I think you'd probably need a bit more capital than we had back then because there were a lot more channels in retail than there were back then, with online etc. We were born out of tough times and I think that's why we are built for tough times, even now. I think when you have that history, you are built with the defence mechanism to withstand anything." Specialty Fashion Group co-founder Gary Perlstein, speaking to Ragtrader as part of its 40th Year Anniversary special.
“The retail world is evolving so quickly and customers have access to so much, that it's important that brands continue to push themselves to create intellectual property that sets them apart and ensuring they deliver quality creativity with the right amount of commercial appeal. Retailing is a challenging industry and not for the faint hearted. And now is not the time to play it safe, so we must continue to innovate and show customers innovation.” David Bush Consulting head David Bush, speaking to Ragtrader as part of a special profile earlier this year.
"I remember on my first day, I arrived at work with a suit and tie. They pretty much said, 'here's a broom, go sweep that cage'. The ability to start from the bottom up prepares you for hard work. You get a good understanding of business and a better idea of how things happen." Retail Apparel Group managing director Gary Novis, speaking to Ragtrader about his early days in the ragtrade.