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River Island Clothing Co.: A case study on changing an image

Gaynor Lea‐Greenwood

International Journal of Retail & Distribution Management

ISSN: 0959-0552

Publication date: 1 March 1993

Abstract

Details how the Lewis family took Lewis Separates (formed in 1954), repositioned it as the fashion store, Chelsea Girl, to meet the demands of a fashion‐conscious, more affluent, younger society in the 1960s and 1970s; and have repositioned it again since 1988 by replacing Chelsea Girl with River Island and thereby attracted a wide market incorporating A to E socio‐economic groups and an age range of 16‐64 (there are plans to introduce lines for the 9‐14 age market). River Island′s success lies in providing value for money with good quality merchandise; using branding (including designer labels) effectively; supplying accessories; and striking store designs which are Victorian period, but each store is unique. The success of such a transformation is unprecedented and it would appear that River Island will be able to withstand the effects of the present recession.

Keywords

  • Clothing industry
  • Fashion
  • Image
  • Retail trade

Citation

Lea‐Greenwood, G. (1993), "River Island Clothing Co.: A case study on changing an image", International Journal of Retail & Distribution Management, Vol. 21 No. 3. https://doi.org/10.1108/09590559310036113

Download as .RIS

Publisher

:

MCB UP Ltd

Copyright © 1993, MCB UP Limited

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