Melbourne, Australia (PRWEB) December 04, 2012
The Clothing Retailing industry in Australia has faced several tough years with cautious consumer spending, lower prices, higher rents and the global financial crisis driving down revenue. Over the five years through 2012-13, industry revenue is expected to contract at a compound annual rate of 2.3%. Revenue is anticipated to contract by 1.4% in 2012-13, to total $ 11.6 billion. Until late 2008, Australians flocked to shopping centres around the country and spent freely on all types of items, including clothing. However, since the economic downturn, consumer spending behaviour has changed and clothing retailers have suffered. According to IBISWorld industry analyst, Ricky Willianto, consumers are now more informed about spending and Australia’s private savings rate has grown to its highest point since 1984. Retail figures suggest consumers remain somewhat nervous about the climate of the global economy. On top of this, the increasing popularity of online shopping has posed additional challenge to traditional bricks-and-mortar retailers that do not enjoy cost flexibility.
Growth in revenue for the Clothing Retailing industry in Australia has also been undermined by a decline in prices. Prices have been driven lower by fierce competition and the surging Australian dollar. The high value of the Australian dollar means that for many retailers, especially the larger operators, stock can be purchased at significant discounts, adds Willianto. However, consumers have scaled back spending, inciting price reductions that effectively null any gains from lower cost of goods. The industry is highly fragmented and therefore concentration is low. Some merger and acquisition activities have taken place as major players seek to capture a greater share of the market and improve economies of scale. Several players have also attempted to reinforce their market positions by acquiring smaller companies that target similar markets.
Competition is expected to strengthen as industry participants fight for the consumer dollar. The entrance of a number of international players and increased acceptance of online shopping, supported by the strong Australian dollar, will change the industry’s landscape. Industry participants will need to position themselves in niche markets to flourish in this increasingly competitive environment. The Clothing Retailing industry is fragmented and diverse with a large number of small, independent operators. In 2012-13, the three largest participants are Premier Investments, Country Road and Specialty Fashion Group. Despite an increase in merger and acquisition activity in the past five years, market share concentration has not changed materially and remains low. This has mainly been because most major acquisitions have involved private equity or players outside the industry.
For more information, visit IBISWorlds Clothing Retailing report in Australia industry page.
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IBISWorld industry Report Key Topics
Clothing retailers purchase a variety of clothing products and accessories from wholesalers and sell these products directly to consumers, generally without developing or changing them. Most retailers in this industry sell goods from one or more shops and may also operate an online store. Retailers also undertake administrative activities such as customer service, product merchandising, advertising, inventory control and cash handling.
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Recognised as the nations most trusted independent source of industry and market research, IBISWorld offers a comprehensive database of unique information and analysis on every Australian industry. With an extensive online portfolio, valued for its depth and scope, the company equips clients with the insight necessary to make better business decisions. Headquartered in Melbourne, IBISWorld serves a range of business, professional service and government organisations through more than 10 locations worldwide. For more information, visit http://www.ibisworld.com.au or call (03) 9655 3886.
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