The world is your oyster - International demand for UK talent
Matthew Vohs is one of the co-founders of Vohs and Coi s looking after senior and executive roles within the UK and internationally, working closely on key positions with well-known brands and retailers.
The UK fashion retail market operates in a league of its own. While brands and retailers in most countries are already starting thinking about what to put on the hangers in twelve to twenty four months time, the UK market has driven a change to allow retailers to operate closer to a just in time model, able to switch production (with the help of suppliers) to meet demand in sizes and colours of lines that sell well while avoiding oversupply (and therefore waste) in those where demand doesn’t meet expectations. It’s an ability that every brand and fashion retailer around the world looks to emulate and for those in mid to senior level merchandising and buying positions in the UK it means that the world is their oyster.
Why the UK is a world leader
While in many countries fashion labels are prevalent, the UK is dominated by large retailers. Retailers look to meet consumer demand with Primark, Next, George, Tesco, New Look and River Island (among others) dominating our high streets in part because they are so good at this. On the other hand, fashion labels look to shape consumer demand, essentially dictating what will be popular and so haven’t built up the same ability to be responsive.
Over the last thirty plus years the UK fashion industry has become ever more sophisticated and responsive. UK retailers set extremely high standards and have invested heavily in merchandising systems, processes, manufacturing, training and developing supply chain relationships. The resultant ability to manage stock quantity and quality together with the speed with which clothes can be merchandised in store is unparalleled. The stories of imitations of designer dresses being in high street retailers within a fortnight of them appearing on the catwalk are well known and foreign chains are taking note. The UK trading model has become key and the talent invariably lies within the UK retail industry.
What are the opportunities?
Buyers and Merchandisers at the mid to senior level are particularly in demand, however anyone with a good understanding of the supply chain and a robust network will be attractive to retailers and brands abroad.
Abroad where? The Middle East, South Africa, Australia and Western Europe are all pro-actively looking to attract UK talent. If you want to broaden your horizons then the opportunities are out there.
If you would like to find out more, please get in touch with Matthew – matthew@vohsandco.com or 0203 668 1466.