In June, US retail apparel prices rose 0.4 per cent MoM but fell YoY for the third month.
Apparel imports remained volatile after April’s tariff hikes.
Consumer confidence improved, while spending was flat overall but up 4.2 per cent YoY for apparel.
Q2 GDP grew 3 per cent annualised, inflation stayed at 2.8 per cent, job growth slowed, unemployment rose to 4.2 per cent, and wages gained 3.9 per cent.

Zara is doubling down on its Indian market strategy, planning new store openings, renovations, and tech upgrades to enhance its omnichannel presence. Despite a slight 0.4% revenue increase to Rs 2,782 crore in FY25, net profit jumped 23% to Rs 299 crore. Inditex, Zara’s parent company, is investing €1.8 billion globally in 2025 towards technological integration, online platform upgrades, and commercial space optimisation.

Zara is doubling down on its Indian market strategy, planning new store openings, renovations, and tech upgrades to enhance its omnichannel presence. Despite a slight 0.4% revenue increase to Rs 2,782 crore in FY25, net profit jumped 23% to Rs 299 crore. Inditex, Zara’s parent company, is investing €1.8 billion globally in 2025 towards technological integration, online platform upgrades, and commercial space optimisation.

Casio India has announced the sale of 28 watch models manufactured within the country, commencing in late July. This initiative aligns with national manufacturing efforts and aims to strengthen the company’s market presence.

Fueled by lender constraints and rich valuations, around ten jewellery retail firms are preparing to launch IPOs in the next 3-6 months. PNGS Reva Diamond Jewellery, Lalithaa Jewellery Mart, and Priority Jewels have already filed with SEBI. RiddiSiddhi Bullions, Rokde Jewellers, and Waman Hari Pethe are among those preparing their DRHPs, capitalizing on the thriving IPO market.

Libas, an Indian wear brand, is expanding its offline presence. Eleven new stores will open on August 15. The brand is also focusing on quick commerce through various platforms. Libas plans to launch its own quick commerce service by Diwali. They anticipate significant growth this festive season. The company aims to increase its revenue through online and offline channels.

Allbirds has posted revenue of $39.7 million in Q2 2025, down 23.1 per cent YoY, with gross margin falling to 40.7 per cent.
Net loss narrowed to $15.5 million, and adjusted EBITDA loss improved to $12.6 million.
CEO Joe Vernachio expects growth in Q4, citing new product and marketing initiatives.
Full-year revenue is forecast at $165–$180 million with continued operational discipline.

Countries like Bangladesh, Vietnam, Cambodia, Pakistan, etc., benefit from more favourable tariffs (19–20%), while India and Brazil face steep 50% duties—affecting their competitiveness in the US market.
Industry experts emphasise need for collaborative approach to global trade to create a more predictable, fair trade environment that prioritises competitiveness over geopolitical manoeuvring.

Gokaldas Exports anticipates a significant blow from the US’s new 50% tariff on Indian goods, potentially forcing business away from India. Managing Director Siva Ganapathi warns that this duty is unsustainable, exceeding the supply chain’s capacity to absorb costs. He suggests brands might reduce features to maintain prices, while orders could shift to European markets.

Aramark has reported a record Q3 FY25 revenue of $4.6 billion, up 6 per cent YoY, with operating income rising 13 per cent to $183 million and AOI up 19 per cent to $230 million.
GAAP EPS grew 24 per cent to $0.27.
Strong FSS US and International performance, AI-driven supply chain gains, and high client retention underpin its outlook to exceed growth and profitability targets.