In the realm of department stores in South Korea, the children’s category has seen a notable growth trajectory this year. From January through October, the growth rate for the entire children’s category compared to the same period last year stood at 5.7 percent at Shinsegae Department Store, 5 percent at Lotte Department Store, and a substantial 21.1 percent at Hyundai Department Store.
Delving specifically into the luxury segment of children’s items during the same period, the figures reveal an even more impressive scenario. Shinsegae Department Store exhibited a growth rate of 16.2 percent, Lotte Department Store showed a 10 percent increase, and Hyundai Department Store soared with an impressive 33.7 percent growth — signaling a heightened trajectory in the luxury children’s goods market. This trend is anticipated to further expand during the fall and winter seasons, particularly for higher-priced items such as outerwear.
The shift towards premium products extends beyond clothing and permeates the entire spectrum of children’s goods in the Korean market. The trend is not solely driven by mothers; it encompasses a broader audience, including grandmothers, grandfathers, and relatives seeking to purchase premium gifts for children. This shift is encapsulated in the emerging trend referred to as the ‘Ten Pockets.’
Moreover, data from the e-commerce platform Auction sheds light on the comprehensive surge in various children’s goods during the first quarter of 2022. Strollers and car seats witnessed an 8 percent year-over-year increase, baby furniture and beds surged by 47 percent, baby chairs rose by 26 percent, formula products increased by 16 percent, diapers saw a 19 percent growth, and feeding items experienced a notable 35 percent uptick.
In a parallel narrative in the retail landscape, Toronto-based fashion accessory store Zane is bidding farewell to its Queen St. W. Brick-and-mortar location after over a decade. Founder Zane Aburaneh announced the move on Instagram, assuring customers of the brand’s continued online presence with plans for market appearances and pop-up stores.
In a noteworthy expansion into sustainable practices, Aburaneh introduces Gluu, a Toronto-based company focusing on localizing repairs for handcrafted accessories like jewelry or leather items. This initiative aims to keep repairs within the city, contributing to a circular economy and offering a platform for artists to showcase their designs. Despite the physical store’s closure, Zane’s vendors will continue dropshipping, ensuring customers still receive the brand packaging and experience.
As Zane’s physical location discounts items and transitions to an online model, the founder expresses gratitude for the friendships, creativity, and connections formed at the brick-and-mortar store. The move towards an online-only presence aligns with a broader trend in the retail landscape, emphasizing sustainability and the evolving dynamics of customer engagement in a digital era.
