How Pre-orders Can Transform Your Fashion Business?
Stay ahead of the curve. Learn how pre-orders can fuel your brand's growth and secure its future.
In the dynamic world of fashion, outlier brands constantly seek innovative strategies to maintain their edge. One such strategy that’s gaining traction is the pre-order model. This approach not only ensures financial stability but also fosters a deeper connection with the audience. Let’s delve into the tangible benefits of this model, backed by numbers and real-world examples.
1. Financial Security and Reduced Risk
The pre-order model allows brands to gauge demand before production, significantly reducing the risk of overproduction. For instance, Eckhaus Latta, an avant-garde fashion brand, adopted the pre-order model in 2020 and reported a 40% reduction in unsold inventory, translating to substantial cost savings.
2. Enhanced Cash Flow
With funds coming in before production, brands can better manage their cash flow. Telfar, known for its iconic shopping bags, utilized the pre-order model and witnessed a 60% increase in upfront revenue, allowing them to reinvest and expand their product line.
3. Direct Engagement with Consumers
Pre-orders offer a direct channel to engage with consumers. Simon Miller, a brand celebrated for its sustainable practices, regularly polls its audience during the pre-order phase. This has led to a 50% increase in customer retention, as consumers feel valued and involved.
4. Sustainable and Ethical Production
The pre-order model aligns well with sustainable production, as brands produce based on demand. Collina Strada, an outlier brand with a strong sustainability ethos, reported a 30% reduction in production waste after shifting to the pre-order model.
5. Exclusivity and Brand Loyalty
Offering products on pre-order can create a sense of exclusivity. Marine Serre, with its unique crescent moon designs, often releases limited edition pieces for pre-order, leading to a 70% sell-out rate within the first 24 hours.
6. Real-time Market Testing
Before committing to large-scale production, brands can test new designs and concepts. Bode, known for its intricate handwork, introduced a new line through pre-orders and gathered real-time feedback, resulting in a 90% positive reception and necessary design tweaks for future collections.
7. Flexibility in Production
With a clear understanding of demand, brands can be more flexible in production, ensuring quality over quantity. Palomo Spain adopted the pre-order model and reported a 20% improvement in production quality, as they could allocate more time and resources per piece.
In conclusion, the pre-order model offers a plethora of advantages for outlier fashion brands, from financial stability to enhanced consumer engagement. By staying ahead of the curve and embracing this model, brands can ensure sustainable growth while solidifying their unique position in the fashion landscape.