from Bloomberg: In what may be another sign of consumer fatigue with political correctness, sales of furs–which plunged by a third in the 10 years ending in 1995 amid animal-rights protests–will climb about 15 percent to a record $2.1 billion this year, according to Fernandina Beach, Florida-based research firm Southwick Associates.
“If you are fashion aware, you’d like to have an item with some fur on it this season,” said Lori Wachs, who helps manage about $110 billion at Delaware Investments in Philadelphia, including Federated Department Stores shares.
Neiman Marcus, which caters to people with average annual incomes of about $190,000, posted a 8.4 percent comparable sales gain in November, helped by rising fur sales including $50,000 sable ponchos.
Bloomingdale’s, owned by Federated, is selling $2,000 beaver jackets with fox-fur collars and $500 Andrew Marc down jackets with fur collars.
Less-pricey chains such as Sears are promoting furs and faux furs to last-minute holiday shoppers. Sears said cardigans with fur collars are selling well and J.C. Penney expanded its fur selection to include a $70 rabbit fur poncho.
Thanks to PSFK for the pointer.
