- U.S. fashion retailers added 23,000 jobs in December, reflecting a resilient labor market.
- French independent fashion retailers saw a 4.7% sales drop in December.
- The Fédération nationale de l’habillement calls for changes in sales scheduling and promotion regulation.
The U.S. fashion retail sector experienced growth with 23,000 jobs added in December 2024, part of an overall increase in nonfarm payrolls. Despite the global economic uncertainties, the U.S.
In contrast, France’s independent fashion retailers faced a challenging December, with a 4.7% decline in sales. FNH attributed the downturn to weak consumer demand after Black Friday and limited holiday promotions.
Fashion Retail: U.S. Jobs Surge, France’s December Woes
In the U.S., the retail industry ended 2024 on a positive note, adding 23,000 jobs in December, contributing to a robust labor market. Retail trade experienced a healthy surge with 43,400 new positions, supporting economic stability. Despite global uncertainties, the U.S. workforce showed resilience, and economists note the job gains are in line with projections for steady employment growth.
On the other hand, France’s independent fashion retailers saw a significant setback, with sales in December dropping by 4.7%. This decline was steeper than the previous month’s 1.6% fall, signaling a tough holiday season for smaller retailers. FNH noted that promotions were key to improving sales performance, but not all businesses were able to run discounts due to financial constraints.
The French retail landscape showed regional variations, with some southern areas like Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur seeing positive results, while others, including Normandy, recorded steep losses. This geographic disparity further complicates the retail recovery, with some areas performing better due to local consumer trends.
FNH has called for a reassessment of the sales calendar and stricter regulations on promotions. The association argues that adjusting the timing of seasonal sales could help maintain retail margins, while curbing the ongoing price wars in the sector. FNH is also opposing new policies, such as pedestrian zones in Paris, which it believes are detrimental to retail traffic.
The contrasting trends in U.S. job growth and French retail sales highlight the importance of strategic adaptation to maintain momentum in fashion retail markets.
“The key to survival in retail lies in adapting quickly to changing circumstances and seizing opportunities when they arise.”
