Latest News & Analysis
Moody’s Downgrades Shiseido’s Financial Outlook Citing Weak Demand
The credit ratings agency has downgraded its outlook to Baa1 from a more positive “A” rating, saying its potential for profitable growth and improved geographic diversification seems slim.
Revenge of the 1990s Beauty Queen
‘Grunge Beauty’ tops Pinterest’s current trend boards, but 30 years after the phenomenon became mainstream, there’s still value in its original formulas.
What Comes After the Fragrance Boom
As consumer sentiment begins to dampen, the perfume industry’s explosive growth looks headed for a slowdown. Executives from Swiss fragrance and flavours firm Givaudan are confident in the strength of their business, but are diversifying into makeup, skincare and other categories to prepare.
How Ulta Beauty Is Finding Growth in a Slowdown
The beauty retailer’s “Ulta Beauty Unleashed” turnaround plan is paying off as the retailer overcame a broader beauty slowdown in the first half of the year, but headwinds loom.
Did Nike Lose the Youth?
Data from a new survey shows that Nike isn’t dominating the back-to-school arena quite like it used to.
How the End of the De Minimis Exemption Will Impact US Shoppers and Businesses
The Trump administration has ended duty-free imports for packages under $800, known as the de minimis exemption, likely leading to higher costs for US consumers as businesses increase prices.
Forever 21 Looks to Resurrect China, North America Businesses With New Partners
The fast-fashion brand is making its fourth attempt to re-enter the Chinese market, by localising operations and targeting young consumers, while also seeking a new partner for its North American relaunch.
Ssense: What Went Wrong
Tariffs were the immediate cause of the Montréal-based company’s decision to file for bankruptcy protection. But insiders tell BoF that the downfall was a long time coming as the online retailer’s formula for appealing to Gen-Z shoppers with indie fashion brands and constant markdowns lost its edge.
Maison Margiela Taps Miley Cyrus For First-Ever Celebrity Campaign
The singer appeared in a number of portraits shot by Paolo Roversi for the brand’s Autumn/Winter 2025 campaign.
Gap Drops After Tariffs’ Tolls and Athleta Weigh on Performance
Changes at the San Francisco-based company’s namesake brand and Old Navy seem to be working, but Banana Republic and Athleta haven’t bounced back as quickly.
Ulta Beauty Raises Sales Outlook, Beats Expectations
The American beauty retailer saw sales increase 6.7 percent in the last quarter, outperforming Wall Street expectations of 3 percent growth.
Pop Mart’s New Mini Labubu Doll Sells Out Instantly in China
The robust demand in China bodes well for launches in major overseas markets including the US, Thailand and Australia, where the toys will be available online starting Friday morning.