Industry Analysis & Industry Trends
While the recession has defined the industry's operating environment for much of the past five-year period, many companies have started to experience a turnaround in sales and profit. As disposable incomes inch up and consumer sentiment climb, aggregate revenue is expected to grow. Additionally, with the US birthrate expected to grow, demand for maternity apparel will resume. Still, online retailers will remain a threat to brick-and-mortar establishments.... purchase to read more
Industry Report - Industry Analysis Chapter
The recession had a doubly negative effect on the Maternity Wear Stores industry, causing even the relatively nondiscretionary industry's revenue to decline in 2008 and 2009. The dip in per capita disposable income in 2009 limited consumers' ability to expand their families, while those who were expecting newborns opted for fewer and lower-priced clothing items and accessories. Additionally, mounting competition from alternative retailers has continuously served as a threat to traditional brick-and-mortar stores. Even as the economy has entered its rebound phase, industry performance has slacked due to the long-term downward trend in US birthrates... purchase to read more