Jane Norman opens up international expansion
24-04-2006
Jane Norman is now firmly focused on international expansion by using the network of Baugur which acquired Jane Norman for £117 million last year. Baugur has a the majority stake in the Copenhagen departmental store Illum. Jane Norman are expecting to open up to 10 different outlets within the next two years targeting Iceland, Sweden and Germany. They are also collaborating with Debenhams in a unique retailer collaboration in Reykjavik within the next two months; if this is not successful then they will open a stand alone unit.
Copenhagen is a hot spot for the fashionistas and is very much on trend. It is only a small town but a high density of quality retail outlets. In the UK Jane Norman has 48 independent units and 80 concessions with a new state of the art store recently opening in Manchester Arndale Centre.
Jane Norman represents a viable opportunity for CMT production. Known for it’s quick turnaround of disposable fashion Jane Norman needs CMT units that can offer quality production in jersey and stretch fabrics. Normally, in these circumstances, CMT units need to be able to purchase the cloth directly themselves and store the cloth until production orders are received. However, it has been known that Jane Norman will supply fabric to the unit if there are cash flow restrictions with the CTM unit.
Suppliers need to provide sealing samples (two for preproduction and then two for end of line garment production) and the factory needs to be fully vetted. There is a hefty management document that needs to be complied with but this is now standard for the industry and all major retailers such as Topshop, Dorothy Perkins etc need to ensure that statutory requirements and regulations are adhered too.
CMT units need to understand the workings of a retailer and service is key to success being able to make and drop off samples when required sometimes at very short notice.
There are opportunities for CMT units in today’s competitive fashion environment – such retailers as Jane Norman need newness for top store ranging which may be small quantities of 50 pieces a time. Whilst the quantity may not be high the prices normally reflect this and having regular and advanced bookings of production runs can provide a profitable niche market for the right CMT unit.
Jennifer Holloway
Industry Advisor
