Alpana Razdan

The Body Shop revenue went from $1.2 billion in 2021 to just $480 million by 2024 (BBC News). But what went wrong? Let's learn from its rise and fall.

The UK’s favourite ethical brand is facing a harsh reality. Declining sales and uncertain future. Known for natural ingredients and ethical sourcing, The Body Shop built a loyal customer base.

Fast forward to now, they've lost their edge completely, according to experts. Here's why:

📍 Increased competition: Rivals like Boots launched similar natural beauty ranges, while LUSH upped the ante on fresh ingredients.

📍 Shifting trends: The Body Shop missed the boat on trendy makeup formats like contour kits, leaving them feeling dated.

📍 Online shopping: Consumers are increasingly comfortable buying beauty products online, impacting brick-and-mortar stores.

📍 Brand confusion: Customers felt the product range lacked focus, with no clear emphasis on their ethical values.

The numbers don't lie:

The Body Shop's 2016 results showed a drop from €967.2 million in 2015 to €920.8 million.

Despite its struggles, The Body Shop still boasts a sizable presence with over 3,000 stores in 66 countries and employs 22,000 people.

L'Oréal bought The Body Shop in 2006 for £652 million ($1.14 billion), but it represented a tiny portion of their overall sales (The Body Shop's sales in 2016 were just a fraction of L'Oreal's €25.8 billion).

Here are a few lessons for any business to stay relevant:

▶ The Body Shop struggled to keep up with the increasing appetite for modern shopping experience and personalized products.

▶ The Body Shop relied too heavily on its legacy without investing in new product development and brand reinvention.

▶ Embracing digital technologies, e-commerce, and omnichannel strategies is critical for today's consumers. The Body Shop was slow to build a strong online presence and integrate digital capabilities.

Businesses that neglect these crucial lessons risk becoming obsolete, just as The Body Shop experienced.

The Body Shop's story is a fascinating mix of purpose, competition, and missed opportunities. What’s your learning from it?

P.S. Can you name what it takes to thrive in today's competitive market?

#business #retail #lessons #brands

From forest walks to fashion staples worth billions, here’s the unexpected story of the origin of Velcro that I’ll decode for you in the next 90 seconds.

In 1941, Swiss engineer Georges de Mestral (Smithsonian Institution) took a casual stroll through the countryside with his dog. Little did he know, this walk would lead to a groundbreaking invention. Upon returning home, he noticed burrs clinging to his dog's fur and his clothes.

Curiosity ticked him and he examined the burrs under a microscope and discovered their secret: tiny hooks that latched onto anything with a loop, like fabric or fur.

Seeing the potential in this natural phenomenon, de Mestral envisioned a new kind of fastener. It took him nearly a decade of trial and error, but by 1955, he perfected his invention and patented what we now know as Velcro.

The name “Velcro“ itself is a blend of the French words “velours“ (velvet) and “crochet“ (hook), capturing the essence of its hook-and-loop mechanism .

Velcro's journey from an idea to a household name wasn't immediate. Initially, the textile industry was skeptical. However, once NASA - National Aeronautics and Space Administration adopted Velcro for use in space suits and equipment during the Apollo missions in the 1960s.

That's when the world took notice, and it became a go-to fastener for countless applications, from sports gear to everyday clothing .

Its impact is undeniable. Today, the global hook-and-loop fasteners market is valued at over $2 billion (MarketResearch.com) and is projected to continue growing, driven by innovations in various industries, including automotive, healthcare, and fashion.

Any great invention is incomplete without challenges, so was the case velcro, De Mestral faced numerous rejections and skepticism from potential investors and manufacturers. Early versions of Velcro were also criticized for being too stiff and noisy.

But his belief in his invention and relentless pursuit of perfection were key to Velcro's success. Collaborating with textile experts and continuously refining the product allowed Velcro to overcome initial challenges and gain acceptance in the market.

Velcro's journey from a curious observation to a global brand highlights several valuable lessons:

1. Inspiration can come from anywhere
2. Persistence pays off
3. Adapt and evolve

So next time you hear the familiar “rip“ of Velcro, remember the curious engineer who turned a walk in the woods into a multi-billion-dollar innovation.

#fashion #brand #textile #history

SEPHORA is worth $37 billion but history can’t pinpoint its origin. (Statista)

This French brand synonymous with luxury beauty has 2,500+ stores in 32 countries. And now this retail brand and global powerhouse have come to India.

The name “Sephora“ itself is derived from Greek. It means “beautiful.“ It reflects the brand's evolving focus beyond perfumes to all things beauty.

The whispers began in 1969 and 1970. Some say that's when Sephora first came onto the scene, but historians claim it was later.

In 1970, Dominique Mandonnaud, a painter-turned-perfumer, revolutionized fragrance shopping with a self-service approach. Customers could test before they bought, unheard of at the time!

When we take a look at its history and success story, one thing's for sure:

→It wasn't born with the iconic “S.“ Earlier, it wore a different name, then another, before Boots snatched it up in 1970.

→Fast forward to 1979, and a glimmer of truth emerges from a dusty list of companies. One of them was “Es Sua,“ a store selling toiletries and cosmetics that belongs to Boots. This Es Sua has a connection to Sephora's family tree.

→Beauty Genesis SA, the “unofficial” parent company, added another layer to this puzzle. The twist lies in 1897 with Nouvelle Gallery. A Parisian chain that turned into a French fragrance brand.

→By 1972, however, financial woes cast a shadow over its success. But Sephora rose in 1973. Yet, Nouvelle Gallery's ghost lingered. Profits dwindled, staff vanished, and by 1978, the chain faced its final curtain.

So, where does this leave us? With a beauty giant whose backstory is as captivating as its future.

Can you crack this code? Leave your best guesses in the comments.


#brands #sephora #retail

It took me a decade to learn this, but in the next 2 minutes, you can understand why curiosity is your best currency.

Having started young in my career, I’ve seen firsthand how far curiosity can take you. When you’re just starting out, experience is limited, but curiosity? That’s limitless. It’s what opens doors, sparks new ideas, and allows you to learn from everyone around you.

If you're a genius, you can only ever rely on your own brain, right? But if you're curious, you can steal everybody else's brains around you and compound them together.

Today, we hear so much about AI taking over. It’s already reshaping industries—copywriting, customer service, even legal and accounting tasks. That’s incredible, but I get why it’s worrying for some. The future feels uncertain when technology can handle so many things we thought were irreplaceable.

But here’s the thing: AI still relies on us.
We ask the questions.
We guide it with the prompts.

No matter how advanced it gets, it can’t think for itself the way a curious human can. The quality of the questions we ask is what drives the best output from AI.

This is why I believe curiosity is the most powerful currency you can have right now. It's the key to staying ahead. The ability to ask the right questions, to dive deeper into the ‘why,’ to explore and stay open—these are the skills that can’t be replicated by any machine.

So here’s my challenge to you: be more curious. Ask the tough questions. Don’t settle for surface level answers. Because in a world where AI can do so much, curiosity is what will keep us truly irreplaceable.

What’s a time when asking the right question gave you a breakthrough?

#CuriosityForSuccess #AIEra #AskBetterQuestions #EntrepreneurialMindset

I never thought a book about past lives would help me as an entrepreneur. It’s called Many Lives, Many Masters by Brian Weiss.

This book explores the impact of past lives and how understanding our past lives can heal and make difference to our present.

Here are some vital takeaways from the book:

📍 Life beyond the physical:
Embracing the idea that life extends beyond our current existence opens us up to new possibilities and creative solutions.

📍Emotional liberation:
Healing past traumas can free us from limiting beliefs and enhance our entrepreneurial mindset.

📍Expanded awareness:
A broader view of life helps us to see patterns and connections that can lead to innovative strategies.

📍Reduced stress:
Understanding that we are part of something brings peace and reduces stress in high-pressure situations.

📍Purpose and fulfillment:
Recognizing that every experience contributes to our growth inspires us to pursue meaningful and impactful goals.

I am surprised to think that these helped me on my entrepreneurial path:

- Approach challenges with a sense of calm and clarity, knowing they are part of a larger journey.

- Emotional resilience has become a cornerstone of my decision-making process.

- Striving to create a positive impact, understanding the importance of our actions.

I believe no matter what book you read, you can make all the difference only when you apply it.

Which book has influenced you the most? Tell me in the comments below.

#entrepreneurship #development #leadership #growth

Started in 2016, by the Biswas sisters with a modern approach Suta today has a revenue of 56 crores.

Suta Sarees, founded by Sujata and Taniya Biswas, is an Indian brand specialising in designing modern, stylish sarees using traditional textiles and production methods.

The aim was to bring a contemporary take on sarees by incorporating technology, social media, and sustainability.

They wanted to disrupt the traditional saree industry by appealing to modern, urban women. They faced challenges, including:

- competing with established brands, 
- scaling production, 
- utilising digital marketing in an offline industry, 
- and maintaining sustainability

To overcome these challenges, they:

📍Digital textile printing allowed faster production of small batches and custom designs.

📍An online store which helped them maximise reach to tech-savvy urban customers.

📍Utilised Instagram and influencer marketing to attract younger, fashion-forward buyers.

📍Limited edition capsule collections to create excitement and exclusivity.

📍Suta focuses on sustainable fabrics and ethical manufacturing, working with rural artisans to provide stable incomes while preserving traditional skills and weaves.

Today, Suta has:

🚀 575K Instagram followers
🚀 Recognition as one of India's leading saree brands.
🚀 14,000 artisans and weavers

Thus, Suta's success demonstrates how startups can modernise heritage fashion categories through innovation while preserving traditions and artisan livelihoods.

Their data-driven, customer-focused approach provides a model for reviving other crafts.


#fashion #apparel #indianfashion

The marketing of clothing brands in India is worth $165 billion, as per The Economic Times. 40% of it represents this Indian handspun fabric. 
Hint: It is linked with Mahatma Gandhi and India's freedom fight.

For those aspiring to establish a clothing brand, Khadi, could be a great proposition. It's a sustainable and handwoven fabric with deep-rooted Indian origins, .

However, just like most endeavors, Khadi carries both advantages and challenges. Let me take you through it all. First, here are a few advantages to using khadi:

✔️Eco-friendly and biodegradable:

Khadi is made from natural fibers like cotton and uses plant-based dyes, making it an environmentally conscious choice.

✔️Breathable and versatile:

The handwoven texture allows better airflow, keeping you cool in summer and providing warmth in winter.

✔️ Supports rural employment:

Khadi production employs thousands of rural artisans, especially women, providing them a source of income.

However, khadi also has some disadvantages:

❌ It can be expensive since it's handmade.
❌ The coarse texture may cause skin irritation for some.
❌ Khadi shrinks easily and requires delicate washing.

Whether you should opt for khadi or not for your clothing brand according to your circumstances depends entirely on you.

What kind of fabric do you want to choose when starting your clothing business?

Let me know in the comments.

#indian #homegrown #khadi #textile #fashion

I’ve been a sourcing specialist for the last 20 years in the fashion retail industry. These are the 6 things I consider when drafting a sourcing strategy.

✅Understand the need to source

It is imperative to know why a fashion house would need sourcing in the first place.

What is the type of requirement, the budget & determining the ultimate product will assist in taking the right decision.

The sourcing tenure - long-term or short-term should also be taken into account.

✅Market research

Once the business need/ purpose has been identified, the next step is to conduct market research. It is crucial to verify each potential source.

Different locations have different legal issues, pricing etc. These various factors are to be considered while planning to choose a source.

✅Verify the supplier

Once the sources have been finalized, ensure to verify the suppliers.

This may require you to:

> Check their financial statements & credit reports.

> Understand the supplier’s working pattern and work experience.

> Enquire about their client base.

This information can help you make concrete decisions.

✅Negotiation

This step would require the organization to finalize with the supplier:

> The cost
> Taxations
> Terms & conditions
> Payment structures
> Labour & logistic cost

Every possible thing should be clarified before you finalize the supplier & jump-start the project.

✅Plan B

After finalizing the supplier & initiating the work, it is best to keep a plan B ready. Hence discuss with the supplier the natural course of action if they fail to deliver.

Keep a list of other suppliers ready at all times in case of mishaps or discontinuation of the selected suppliers.

✅Monitoring

If the supplier is new to the business, then monitor their work.

This may include tracking:

> Delivery Process
> Delivery time
> Challenges in procurement

And if the supplier has already been working with the organization, then it's best to check their records and KPI

These above steps could very well help in selecting the right source & keep the sourcing process hassle-free.🚀


#retail #fashionretail #sourcing #fashionindustry

1960: Swedish man opens a women fashion store after WW2
2022: The ‘store’ is the world’s 2nd largest retail clothing brand (Wikipedia, the Free Encyclopedia)

Do you know which brand it is? Hint: they’re fierce rivals of ZARA.

H&M has over 4,000 stores and is a fast-fashion giant. Let's dive into their fascinating story:

1/ The Person Family Legacy:

Erling Persson launched Hennes (Swedish for “Hers“) in 1947. In 1968, his son Stefan bought the men's sportswear firm Mauritz to expand the brand. This strategy made them Hennes & Mauritz or H&M. After Stefan, his son Carl Johan stayed CEO for 10 years and shaped H&M.

2/ Gradual Growth:

H&M took its time to grow, unlike many fast-growing corporations. Quality and efficiency have been their priorities in new markets to establish themselves. This strategy has made them a trusted brand worldwide.

3/ Fast-fashion pioneer:

H&M actually pioneered fast fashion. These are stylish and cheap apparel with a quick turnaround. They create their own garments, work with low-cost suppliers, and get repeat purchases. Although this concept has an environmental impact, it has helped H&M flourish.

4/ Digital Acceptance:

Change hasn't slowed H&M's growth. They invested in internet platforms early on, seeing e-com's power. Nearly a third of their sales originate from online channels. They're always innovating to integrate physical and online experiences for a seamless experience.

5/ Celebrity Collaborations:

H&M used celebrities to boost its brand image. They worked with stars like Naomi Campbell, Cindy Crawford, Stella McCartney, and Madonna. In India, Aditi Rao Hydari, Vikrant Massey, Tamannah Bhatia, and Anushka Sharma work with H&M.

Their story teaches calculated growth, embracing trends, and adapting to consumer habits. While their fast fashion model faces criticism, their commitment to sustainability suggests evolution.

One thing's for sure: they'll continue offering trendy, affordable clothing to the world.

Do you buy from H&M?


#retail #apparel #success #H&M

It’s not made in France. It is made in India.

Fact: Your luxury wardrobe is crafted not by French ateliers but Indian tailors? 😱

Yes, you read that right!

Most luxury fashion items in your wardrobe with exquisite embroidery and crafted with detail are largely the work of talented Indian karigars.

These highly skilled but unsung artisans are the true hidden heroes making:

📍those coveted Hermès bags and Valentino gowns.
 
📍intricate mirror embroideries on Dior, made by 2,000+ hours of work in India, before 100 hours of European stitching.

📍the latest glitzy Balmain, fully embroidered and stitched in India

Earlier elite brands concealed this open secret, used their Indian supply chains, and smudged “Made in India“ tags into “Made in France“.

But the times have changed.

As Indian luxury consumers emerge, attitudes are evolving.

Fashion houses like Dior and Hermès have started boldly unveiling collections in India and stamping “Made in India“ on pieces.🚀

The time has come when we celebrate and appreciate these gifted Indian artisans openly.

Their imaginative designs and technical talent make global luxury fashion possible.

In the coming times, it would be interesting to see how top fashion brands recognize Indian artisans.

#fashion #luxuryfashion #fashionretail

A handbag made in Italy is considered luxury, but intricate Lucknowi Chikankari isn't?

In Europe, craftsmanship equals luxury. Brands like Gucci and Hermès proudly highlight their artisans and invest to preserve traditional skills.

This is where the difference lies:

We overlook the exceptional craftsmanship of artisans in India and fail to recognize their work as luxury.

In Varanasi, centuries-old silk weaving, Lucknow's months-long zardozi embroidery, and Jaipur's stunning block printing are part of a $34 billion global artisan industry, yet these skilled artisans remain undervalued compared to their European counterparts.

There are several reasons for this disparity, but as business owners, we have the power to address them:

1️⃣ Lack of global exposure

We can combat lack of international visibility by investing in storytelling. Showcase artisans, their techniques, and the cultural significance of their work.

2️⃣ Limited market access

We can establish a platform connecting traditional artisans with contemporary designers to blend heritage techniques with modern trends and access global markets.

3️⃣ Perception of luxury

Brands can launch a consumer education campaign with online courses and in-person workshops to highlight the value of handcrafted items and challenge luxury norms.

4️⃣ Branding and value

Give fair compensation and transparent pricing with a certification program to ensure artisans are supported, positioning their work as luxury products.

It's time to rewrite the narrative of luxury. Indian craftsmanship is a rich tapestry of heritage, skill, and artistry that deserves a global spotlight.

What ideas do you have for showcasing Indian craftsmanship? Comment down below.

#Luxury #Support #IndianArtisans #Europe

The Indian govt. reports that 3,291 foreign companies are operating in India, with over 25 fashion brands scheduled to launch in the country within 2024.

While we are lost in the chaos of India and its everyday hustle bustle, are we as the citizens of Bharat forgetting to ask - Why are international brands focusing on India?

Because of factors that are preeminently making them trust on our economy more than we can see, such as:

> Indian brands get exposure to global best practices and new technologies.
> Collaborations lead to the cross-pollination of ideas, designs, and talent.
> Opportunity to co-create unique products catering to the Indian market
> India's young population is becoming increasingly affluent and aspirational.
> Increasing demand for access to the latest global fashion trends
> The e-commerce boom is opening new avenues to reach consumers.

Some of the great examples of foreign fashion brands that are tapping into the Indian market are Roberto Cavalli, Foot Locker, & Giorgio Armani. (per The Business of Fashion)

India's fashion industry is witnessing an exciting shift as more international brands expand their presence in the country.

As per fashion network, Cavalli's revenue was relatively close to €152.4 million.

Simultaneously, Indian brands are collaborating with global giants and exploring partnerships to tap into the luxury retail market.

Not only that but, many noteworthy Indian apparel labels such as FABINDIA LIMITED ,BIBA Fashion Ltd, House of Anita Dongre Limited, and global desi have also established a significant global presence with international recognition and popularity, they are transcending domestic boundaries.

Factors that are letting them do so:

~ Increasing purchasing power and brand consciousness among affluent Indians
~ Exposure to global luxury brands fuels a desire for Indian luxury products.
~ Partnerships with international brands bring credibility and accessibility.
~ Collaborations help streamline supply chains, operations, and retail strategies.

As boundaries blur, the future looks promising for India's fashion industry.

Global exposure and cross-brand synergies can elevate product quality, customer experiences, and brand equity for all players involved.

Are you excited to see international brands tapping into the Indian fashion market & going Indian?

#retail #fashion #luxury #india #brands

‘Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a battle’- Plato

As leaders, we often strive for success, growth, and innovation.

We focus on strategic planning, decision-making, and driving results. 🎯

But amidst the goals and targets, there's one crucial element that can make all the difference: empathy.

In leadership, empathy is not just a nice-to-have quality—it is an essential ingredient that fosters trust, collaboration, and exceptional performance.

But, let's be honest when it comes to the keys for successful leadership, empathy is hardly included.

However instilling a sense of empathy for those under your care offers a number of advantages:

☑️It allows us to feel safe with our failures because we won’t simply be blamed for them.

☑️It encourages leaders to understand the root cause behind poor performance.

☑️It allows leaders to build and develop relationships with those they lead.

I believe that empathy is not a weakness. It is a strength that distinguishes exceptional leaders.

By cultivating empathy in our leadership style, we can create positive work cultures, drive high-performance teams, and make a lasting impact on the lives of those we lead.

💡Are you an empathetic leader?

P.S. Empathy is seeing with the eyes of the another, listening with the ears of another, and feeling with the heart of another




#empathy #leadership #leadershipdevelopment #fashionretail

As a long-time buyer of luxury goods, I've often wondered where our money actually goes when we buy luxury products and the reality might surprise you.

We assume it’s spent on the finest materials, craftsmanship, or maybe even the brand’s prestige. But the reality is far less glamorous.

Most of what we pay goes straight to profits for large corporations. However, one brand that caught my eye for doing things differently is Brunello Cucinelli.

Here's what sets Brunello Cucinelli apart in an industry that is often criticized for prioritizing profit over people.

> Crafted in Italy with a focus on integrity.
Brunello Cucinelli's products are entirely crafted in Italy. They pay their employees up to 40% above the minimum wage. This commitment to fair labor practices supports skilled artisans and bolsters the local economy.

> Purpose-driven profits
Instead of solely focusing on shareholder returns, Cucinelli reinvests substantial profits into community development.

> More than luxury
Cucinelli's vision extends far beyond fashion. The company invests in research on rare diseases and various social welfare projects.

> A model for ethical luxury: 
67% of consumers consider using sustainable materials as an important purchasing factor (McKinsey & Company)
Cucinelli's model aligns perfectly with this growing consumer consciousness.

As someone who appreciates luxury, I’ve become more mindful of where my money goes and the impact it has. Brunello Cucinelli’s model caught my attention because it offers more than just beautifully crafted items—it aligns with values of ethics and sustainability.

I wanted to share this because, in a world where profit often takes priority, it's refreshing to see a brand doing things differently.

So next time you're considering a luxury purchase, think about the story behind the product and where your money is really going.

What’s your favorite example of a brand prioritizing ethics over profit? Tell us in the comments!

#luxury #BrunelloCucinelli.

👉 Steve Jobs had no background in the consumer electronics sector at all.
👉 Sara Blakely, founder of Spanx, had no experience in shapewear.
👉 Howard Schultz of Starbucks was outside the coffee business for 70% of his life.

One commonality unites them all. It’s having no background or experience in the industry that they disrupted.

We often assume successful founders come from the very industries they revolutionize.

A fascinating pattern emerges when examining the top consumer companies. Most founders weren't industry veterans, but rather outsiders with a fresh perspective.

The outsider's perspective has power:

These founders saw challenges as consumers and envisioned a better way. Their outsider view wasn't burdened by industry norms. It allowed them to disrupt the status quo.

This outsider advantage made Kevin Ryan and Henry Blodget, founders of Business Insider. They approached traditional media outlets, such as the The Wall Street Journal, with an innovative online model. But they were met with skepticism.

Why? The insiders couldn't escape the confines of the current framework. They were so caught up in their tunnel vision that they failed to envision the future of news.

Fast-forward to now: Business Insider is an online news conglomerate.

But why am I telling you this? I don’t see the fashion industry being any different.

If you think the top designers came from art backgrounds, then you haven’t heard of Vivienne Westwood.

She didn’t even want to be a designer but now her brand is a revered name in the industry!

Do you think experience or relevant background is required to be successful?

#experience #innovation #leadership #founders