This episode offers a deep dive into the evolving role of retail buyers, crucial for ecommerce operators navigating a competitive market. Averyl Oates of 10 Corso Como discusses the importance of unique product curation, adapting to a digital-first world, and meeting the consumer demand for "newness" to create a standout shopping experience. It provides valuable insights into how established brands expand into new markets while maintaining a distinct brand identity.
Key takeaways
Modern retail buyers must prioritize unique product curation to stand out in a crowded market, moving beyond traditional seasonal buying to focus on continuous 'newness'.
Physical retail spaces remain vital, particularly for concept stores, as they provide an experiential element that complements online shopping and reinforces brand identity.
Successful market expansion, like 10 Corso Como's US launch, hinges on leveraging experienced buyers and understanding local consumer preferences while maintaining core brand values.
Integrating art, design, and cultural elements into retail offerings can create a "destination retail" experience, drawing customers who seek unique products and immersive environments.
Adapting to shifts away from traditional seasonal production cycles is essential for designers and retailers to consistently meet consumer demand for fresh products.
For modern retailers, a unique product curation has never been more make-or-break. To create a standout shopping experience in the crowded, competitive market, many fashion players are leaning on experienced buyers. Milan-born concept store 10 Corso Como, which opened its doors in 1990, has gained popularity among fashion and art fans for its one-of-a-kind assortment spanning rare photography books, designer home decor, private-label fashion and exclusive accessories collaborations. Prior to launching is first U.S. outpost, in NYC's Seaport District in September, it scooped up Avery Oates, a fashion veteran who's worked as a buyer for more than 20 years. On the first episode of our limited series, Glossy Trend Watch, editor-in-chief Jill Manoff sits down with Oates to discuss the role of the modern retail buyer as shopping moves online, designers' production shifts from a seasonal calendar and consumers' increasingly demand newness.
What does this episode say about retail & omnichannel?
Modern retail buyers must prioritize unique product curation to stand out in a crowded market, moving beyond traditional seasonal buying to focus on continuous 'newness'.
What does this episode say about brand & content?
Physical retail spaces remain vital, particularly for concept stores, as they provide an experiential element that complements online shopping and reinforces brand identity.
What does this episode say about product & merchandising?
Successful market expansion, like 10 Corso Como's US launch, hinges on leveraging experienced buyers and understanding local consumer preferences while maintaining core brand values.
What does this episode say about retail & omnichannel?
Integrating art, design, and cultural elements into retail offerings can create a "destination retail" experience, drawing customers who seek unique products and immersive environments.
What does this episode say about retail & omnichannel?
Adapting to shifts away from traditional seasonal production cycles is essential for designers and retailers to consistently meet consumer demand for fresh products.
