retail / Supply Chain

Amid global trade uncertainty, independent brands with strong US customer bases need to rethink everything, from pricing and production to warehousing and long-term market strategy.

For years, brands have used Mexico as a cheap storage location for goods destined for sale in the US market. Now, new tariffs have spurred an exodus, with companies rushing to shift warehousing onto American soil.

While tariff uncertainty threatens to roil the global fashion industry, brands that already produce their goods in the US have an opportunity to shine if they’re able to communicate the value of American manufacturing to cautious consumers.

From farmers to designers, the entire supply chain will be hit — but it is unclear what duties apply to a finished product.

After a brief reprieve, it’ll be all Trump, all the time for the fashion industry as the administration rolls out new tariffs and tries to get a TikTok sale over the line.

Kay Jewelers and Zales aren’t as exposed as US competitor retailers to higher tariffs as less than 10 percent of the merchandise they import comes from China.

Fashion’s reprieve from the administration’s trade war may be over. Plus, red carpet dressing’s conservative tilt, and two runway debuts.

To help fashion brands and businesses meet growing demand for more resilient and sustainable sourcing solutions amid shifting geopolitical dynamics, Milano Unica, Italy’s bi-annual textile and accessories trade fair, is evolving its focus and programming. BoF learns more from Simone Canclini, president of Milano Unica.