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23/03/21
https://wearepurple.org.uk/the-purple-pound-infographic/

I found these facts and figures astonishing. It is amazing how much profit companies are missing out on not catering for the disability community.

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10/03/21

This email was sent to 3 blind charities; RNIB, Vision Foundation and APH. Then also sent to 2 UK bloggers with an additional sentence asking them to complete it as well; LifeOfaBlindGirl and WellEyeNever

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Below are the products that I compared and analysed for my comp shop. In addition to this I used Edited for further comparison for a different more holistic approach of the brands.

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22/03/21

Molly talks about the logistics of how she shops in store & also how she develops her sense of style

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How I Shop Without Sight! (come shop with me)

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The attached document shows some initial ideas for my INP, I assessed the quality of all of them, however I feel that Molly Burke X Pull&Bear is a clear winner in both its uniqueness and the one which I feel most passionately about.

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23/03/21

One of the only typically 'fashionable' clothing brands that have taken on accessible clothing to its usual high quality standard.

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Make better business decisions

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Mainstream brands have been slow to embrace adaptive design, but Tommy Hilfiger has stood apart and has proof it's working. Now LVMH has signalled an interest in the burgeoning market.

When Tommy Hilfiger first designed an adaptive fashion line in 2016, he was an outlier in a space otherwise dominated by hyper-functional, medical garments catered to the elderly. Five years later, the adaptive market remains largely untapped by mainstream fashion brands, but Tommy Hilfiger is furthering commitments after commercial success.

Tommy Hilfiger will increase its Tommy Adaptive collections to two per year and expand availability worldwide, having already added Europe, Australia and Japan last year. Seventy-five per cent of consumers who buy the range are new to Tommy.com, typically shop non-adaptive sections and those that do spend 4.8 times more than the average customer, according to the brand. "Leading the way for adaptive fashion is something we're very proud of," Hilfiger wrote via email to Vogue Business, adding that his passion for adaptive design stems from the issues his autistic children have faced getting dressed.

Adaptive design, which tweaks existing clothing design to be more inclusive to people with disabilities, has a potential market value of $64.3 billion, according to Coresight Research. Mass brands including Target, Land's End and Kohl's, as well as multi-brand marketplaces such as Global Brand Group's Juniper Unlimited and Australian newcomer Every Human, have led the category. Luxury brands have largely overlooked the space, but that's starting to change.

American designer Christian Siriano is working on an adaptive line with the actress Selma Blair, who was recently diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. Inclusive fashion nonprofit Runway of Dreams is contributing to educational programming across LVMH, where Marc Jacobs runs additional inclusive design workshops for staff. No LVMH brands sell adaptive clothing as yet, but it's on the company's radar. "In the months and years ahead, we'll continue to work towards a future of greater equity, inclusion and opportunity in our organisation and our industry," says Gena Smith, senior vice president of human resources and head of global executive and creative recruitment for LVMH.

According to Coresight, 12.7 per cent of Americans have a disability, and US consumers will spend $1.3 billion on adaptive designs in 2021. As more brands enter the space, experts expect competition and employment opportunities for people with disabilities to increase. "Adaptive design is one of the few segments where demand and opportunity are there, but the market isn't," says Erin Schmidt, beauty industry analyst at global retail advisory Coresight Research. "There are still a lot of misconceptions about [this consumer's] ability or willingness to spend. I would encourage brands and retailers to educate themselves and find the opportunities."

Understanding needs

For fashion brands, education is paramount to entering the adaptive design space.

When fashion enthusiast Quin Lewis became an amputee 15 years ago, his seamstress mother would personally "hack" or adapt his clothes. "I often have the right leg of my trousers shortened because of my prosthetic, and I need an extra couple of inches around my waist for the bucket strap my residual limb sits in," explains Lewis. "The bucket is very rigid, and it often wears down fabric when I'm sitting - I get holes in my pants after two hours at brunch. It would be helpful if designers included extra fabric for internal patches, similar to how they include extra buttons." He would like to see made-to-order and customisable options for adaptive clothing.

Tommy Hilfiger campaign star Ashley Young says customisable sleeve lengths for when she is not wearing her prosthesis are important for her, as are easy ways to roll up sleeves and attach it without the bulk of a rolled-up sleeve. "I also have to take my prosthesis off to put on coats because the prosthesis is too chunky for some sleeves. A zip to the elbow or another way to change the circumference of the sleeve would be really helpful."

Many brands approach adaptive clothing by re-educating designers. Hilfiger says his team was able to draw on its athletic wear experience, which has a similar focus on movement, performance and functionality, to create its collection. Sarah Horton, senior director of innovation and integrated marketing at Tommy Hilfiger, says one of the biggest challenges has been communicating how its Adaptive line supports various dressing challenges. Consumers can filter Adaptive products by solution (easy closures, ease of movement, seated wear) or feature (easy open necklines, magnetic buttons, hook and loop closures, internal pull-up hoops, low front and high back, part openings, and side seam openings).

Adaptive design doesn't just apply to products, but the experience of buying them. In the US, Tommy Hilfiger's e-commerce site now uses fonts, colours and layouts designed to be inclusive to a range of visual, auditory and cognitive experiences. Adaptive products and features are illustrated with animations and videos, all accessible through guided shopping journeys and voice navigation powered by Amazon Alexa. Support staff are available around the clock and Adaptive shoppers also benefit from free shipping, which uses pre-glued, resealable bags that are easier to open than the traditional cardboard box.

In-store, this could mean wheelchair-accessible changing rooms, disability representation among mannequins, sensitivity training for retail staff and seated-height registers.

Physical retail has been slower to change at Tommy Hilfiger, but the brand has committed to making all of its retail stores and showrooms inclusive to all shoppers by 2023, according to Tommy Hilfiger. "We know there's a lot more we can do to create a more inclusive in-store shopping experience," he says. "We want to do it right, so we're spending time with our differently abled consumers to learn more about the challenges they face so we can make meaningful and impactful improvements where they're needed most."

Collaboration and consumer feedback are key to inclusive products

Hilfiger is not the only adaptive fashion pioneer whose interest was piqued by a personal experience of disability. Maura Horton founded Magna Ready when her husband was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease, Toronto designer Izzy Camilleri started IZ Adaptive after the late quadriplegic journalist Barbara Turnbull commissioned her to make a bespoke wheelchair-friendly cape, and occupational therapist Joseph DiFrancisco created Friendly Shoes after watching his patients struggle with inaccessible shoes.

These startups are in a prime position to collaborate with luxury brands that are new to adaptive design, helping them avoid risks and missteps where stakes are high. Adaptive clothes that don't centre the needs of the wearer can cause injury or even be lethal, says Camilleri.

"That's where small adaptive brands excel - bringing adaptive design to larger companies and helping to realise inclusive products on a larger scale," says Maura Horton, who is also chief community officer of Juniper Unlimited. "The real win is when aesthetics and problem-solving go hand in hand."

Brands can also partner with fashion students to accelerate change. Juniper Unlimited launched a postgraduate project with IFA Paris this year, which will see two winning students (to be announced in April) sell their adaptive, sustainable products on the site.

Welsh designer Lucy Jones founded Ffora in 2017 after a Parsons project encouraged her to challenge her own biases as a designer. Her modular wheelchair-attachable accessories won the CFDA's Elaine Gold Launch Pad programme in 2018, and she is now collaborating with wheelchair manufacturers on new functions. "Ffora has so much data on adaptive design, we would love to collaborate with luxury brands to take it to the next level. Nobody has to start from zero."

Many adaptive brands host regular focus groups, actively listening to feedback from people with disabilities and using that to drive their innovations. "Reach out and listen to your audience," says Hilfiger. "It's their needs you're trying to meet, and without them you'll never get it right."

Hilfiger may be an outlier for now, but there's ample opportunity ahead. "Every single category of clothing can be improved," says Camilleri. "It just takes a fresh pair of eyes."

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More from this author:
L'Oréal lifts the lid on sustainability strategy Women's streetwear buoyed by Melody Ehsani hire at Foot Locker How outdoor brands can widen their appeal

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Tommy Hilfiger ramps up adaptive fashion. Who's next?

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Sign up to our newsletter for a truly global perspective on the fashion industry Mainstream brands have been slow to embrace adaptive design, but Tommy Hilfiger has stood apart and has proof it's working. Now LVMH has signalled an interest in the burgeoning market.

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Survey sent out on 10/03/21

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Web survey powered by SurveyMonkey.com. Create your own online survey now with SurveyMonkey's expert certified FREE templates.

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29/03/21

I have used Molly's instagram to get photos to use for decoration in my project.

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22/03/21

This video shows how outfits can be matched together from memory

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How I  Match Outfits from My Closet  Without Sight!

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22/03/21

Highlights issues with apps and websites that aren’t accessible

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How I Shop Online Blind *Live Footage* (Custom Converse Fail)

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22/03/21

This video really showed me how difficult and confusing using technology without sight can be when proper help is not put in place.

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I Tried Online Shopping Without Any Help... (Blind Girl Shopping Challenge)

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22/03/21

Guide dog charity & fundraising is discussed during this video. It was so compelling it convinced me to donate a small amount to the charity.

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22/03/21

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24/03/21

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How I use technology as a blind person! - Molly Burke (CC)

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24/03/21

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5 Ways YOU Can Make the World More Accessible!

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28/04/21

How to use accessibility features in Apple devices

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Reduce Motion

Tone down the
special effects.

When you turn on Reduce Motion, you can decrease the movement of onscreen elements. Some screen actions, such as moving between apps or launching apps, become visually simpler for motion sensitivity or to lessen strain on the eyes.

Available on:

iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, Apple TV, iPod touch

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When you turn on Reduce Motion, you can decrease the movement of onscreen elements. Some screen actions, such as moving between apps or launching apps, become visually simpler for motion sensitivity or to lessen strain on the eyes. Available on: iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, Apple TV, iPod touch

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Established Idea

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23/03/21
Focus is on the 'digital' colour palette

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23/03/21
Pops of Bright
Poppy Red

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28/03/21

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Beyond greige orthopaedic footwear and sweatpants - a cardinal sin according to the late Karl Lagerfeld - your options as a trend-seeking disabled shopper have been slim pickings. In a land where "figure hugging" is a powerchair poncho, it seems sartorial rules need not apply.

However, the last year has seen a radical rethink in our understanding of how to design for disability. The rise in adaptive fashion - clothing specifically designed for those with disabilities and chronic conditions - reflects newfound awareness of inclusive design. In fact, searches for adaptive clothing saw an increase of 80% over 2019, according to global fashion search platform Lyst. This encompasses everything from discrete elasticated waistbands, which are pinch-free when seated, to magnetic fastenings for independent dressing. All aspects of the garment are fabricated with the wearer's everyday challenges in mind. So, for many of the UK's 13.9 million disabled people, it is welcome progress.
The pioneers of adaptive fashion
As the first mainstream brand to launch an adaptive fashion line, Tommy Hilfiger has illustrated - with aplomb - the power of creating stylish clothing for consumers who have been historically overlooked. Unveiled at New York fashion week in September, the latest Tommy Hilfiger X Zendaya collection features 10 adaptive styles. Think 70s-style metallic gold turtleneck with hidden zipper and houndstooth blazer featuring magnetic closures.

Likewise, earlier this year Nike launched their Air Zoom Pegasus 35 FlyEase trainers in the UK - a model with revolutionary adaptive technology. A wraparound zip at the back of the shoe connects to cables that tighten the laces - allowing the wearer to put on the shoe with one hand. With the 2020 Paralympics on the horizon, Nike recently announced a new partnership with Handsfree Labs Inc, a pioneer in hands-free footwear technology. This whole endeavour was sparked by a letter from an American student with cerebral palsy sharing his dream of tying shoe laces independently.

Consumer demand was also the catalyst for Seasalt's Easy On line, which launched in March after customers of the Cornish-lifestyle brand requested inclusive options. The adaptive collection features sleeve loops to help pull garments on, large zip-pulls and magnetic fastenings on their popular styles.
New start-ups offering disability-friendly fashion

Kintsugi 's adaptive clothing.

In February, a Manchester-based start-up Kintsugi joined the adaptive fashion market. Its name draws on the Japanese art form of repairing broken pottery with gold lacquer-reflecting the brand's philosophy that all individualism is beautiful. The founder Emma McClelland believes we cannot underestimate the importance of chic yet accessible clothes: "The brand is about empowerment - it's a middle finger to the fashion industry's reluctance to represent people who fall outside its narrow limits."

This idea of design bias is also the driving force of FFORA, a new accessory line for wheelchair users. Since July, FFORA has launched leather bags, lifestyle products and minimalist attachments for mobility aids. Created by Welsh-born Lucy Jones, whose thesis collection for disabled people landed her on the Forbes 30 Under 30 list - it is a masterclass in modern, inclusive fashion.

Lifestyle influencer Lauren Spencer at the 40th Annual Media Access Awards, styled by Stephanie Thomas of Cur8able. Photograph: Joshua Blanchard/Getty Images for Media Access Awards

Likewise, a new London-based lingerie brand Elba - "Able" spelt backwards - focuses on front-fastening bras for individuals with limited mobility or difficulty dressing. Their patented magnetic closure is concealed at the front to balance the need for functionality with sleek styling.
Designing for disability
This year, ongoing conversations about diversity in fashion have provoked questions such as: how can brands better cater to all minority groups? But when it comes to designing for a wide range of disabilities, this simple question is still considered a Herculean task. The design process is multifaceted and often demands medical input.

According to Stephanie Thomas, disability stylist and founder of Cur8able, there are three vital requirements - a garment must be accessible when dressing, medically safe, and all-importantly look fashionable. Ten years in the making, her trademarked Disability Fashion Styling System has become the definitive guide for adaptive fashion design. "As a woman with a disability I want to shop brands that are in line with my aesthetic ... I like adaptive clothing that's beautifully designed with disability in mind."
A financially lucrative market

Actor Selma Blair backstage at the TIME 100 Health Summit in October this year.
Photograph: Craig Barritt/Getty Images for TIME 100 Health Summit

For many forward-thinking brands, offering inclusive fashion is not just a moral decision. It is based on the knowledge that disabled shoppers represent £249bn of spending power. Known as the " purple pound", they remain the largest untapped consumer market. This year, Coresight Research even estimated the adaptive clothing market will reach $288.7bn globally in 2019. But, more than ever, consumers want to align themselves with brands that make a positive impact. Whether it is sustainability or inclusivity, social consciousness is the hottest trend right now.
What's next for adaptive fashion?
In the last year, activists such as Selma Blair and Sinéad Burke have proved that disability and style are not mutually exclusive. But the high street does not yet reflect this shift. Unlike the US, where a handful of mainstream stores have adaptive lines, UK retailers remain slow to enter the market. Designers must also address the unmet demand for disability-friendly workwear and occasionwear -because even sport-luxe sweatpants can't take you everywhere.

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Why 2019 was a landmark year for disabled fashion

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Beyond greige orthopaedic footwear and sweatpants - a cardinal sin according to the late Karl Lagerfeld - your options as a trend-seeking disabled shopper have been slim pickings. In a land where "figure hugging" is a powerchair poncho, it seems sartorial rules need not apply.

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28/03/21

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01/04/21

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When it comes to adaptive fashion, no two brands are created alike. But, how do we know which ones are truly the best? We searched all around the world for the answer and even stocked a few noteworthy brands on our platform.

Tommy Hilfiger is the first mainstream brand to set an example and bring adaptive fashion to the forefront. In 2016, the brand collaborated with Runway of Dreams - a non-profit organisation working towards an inclusive fashion industry- to create a collection of adaptive clothes for children with disabilities. This was inspired by Tommy's personal experience raising his autistic children.
In 2018, Tommy Hilfiger released an adaptive collection for adults. The collection features the classic Tommy style crafted with innovative modifications, like easy-closure magnets and jeans with wide-leg openings, to make getting dressed an empowering process.
The iconic brand made another splash in adaptive fashion in late 2019 when it unveiled the Tommy Hilfiger x Zendaya Adaptive collection on New York Fashion Week, featuring adaptive clothing that exudes style, sophistication, and glamour.
Tommy Hilfiger has proven that it's not impossible for mainstream brands to design for differently-abled people, and we hope that other brands will soon step up and follow their lead.

Nike

Nike, the leading sportswear giant, is also at the forefront of the adaptive fashion movement. Their innovative FlyEase technology was created after receiving a letter from a teenage boy with cerebral palsy about the difficulty he faces when tying his shoelaces. From there,
Nike launched the FlyEase design, which uses a wrap-around zipper solution to open the back of the shoe so people can easily slide their foot in and out.
Nike's designs have evolved to include adjustable straps that make it easy to tighten and remove shoes with one hand - completely eliminating the need for laces. They have also invested in HandsFree Labs , a company specialising in hands-free sneaker technology. With this new partnership and Nike's core belief that 'If you have a body, you are an athlete,' we're excited to see what adaptive innovations they'll come up with.

IZ Adaptive

IZ Adaptive is an adaptive clothing line created by renowned fashion designer, Izzy Camilleri. IZ Adaptive has been labelled as a pioneer in the adaptive fashion space for designing clothes with thoughtful alterations that make getting dressed an independent and delightful process.
Think well-tailored suits and jackets for people in the seated position; magnetic closures instead of buttons; a unique cut for pants so they don't bunch up in a wheelchair; and innovative open-back tops.
Izzy and her team worked closely with people with disabilities to understand their stories, their pain-points, and their clothing needs in order to help them find their perfect fit. The result is
timeless, adaptive clothing that is suitable for everyone; whether you're seated in a wheelchair, desire more independence, or want something easy and fashionable to wear.
IZ Adaptive's global reach and hundreds of glowing reviews speak volumes about the impact it's making in the adaptive fashion space.

MagnaReady Shop the IZ Adaptive collection here.

MagnaReady specialises in producing adaptive clothing for people with dexterity issues. They are renowned for the patented magnet technology which was created by founder, Maura Horton. When Maura saw her husband struggling to button his shirt due to the onset of Parkinsons Disease, she set out to find a solution.
After a fruitless search to find adaptive clothes that matched her husband's youthful and sophisticated style, she was inspired by the magnetic closures on her iPad case. From there, she created the iconic MagnaReady magnets that are now deftly woven into a wide range of dress shirts and pants.
MagnaReady's technology can now be found in adaptive retailers across the globe. The company even struck up a partnership with PVH Corp, the world's largest apparel company which owns iconic brands like Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger and Van Heusen. The Tommy Adaptive collection and Van Heusen both feature MagnaReady's technology in their adaptive clothing.
Shop the MagnaReady collection here.

BILLY Footwear is revolutionising the footwear game for the better. After founder, Billy Price, broke his neck in an accident, he needed to find shoes that were easy to wear and matched his style. Enter: BILLY Footwear. Every BILLY Footwear shoe uses zipper technology that allows the shoe to open up completely so you can slip your foot in with ease. BILLY Footwear shoes are also able to fit orthotics and are AFO friendly, making it truly accessible for everyone.
Since its introduction into the adaptive fashion space, BILLY Footwear has gone on to spark delight in the hearts (and feet) of thousands of adults and children across the world. They have partnered with large retail partners in Spain, UK, and Australia, and are continuing to make trendy, adaptive footwear accessible to everyone.
BILLY Footwear is even making its first Hollywood debut! You can spot their popular red high-top canvas shoes in the upcoming Ghostbusters: Afterlife film. Keep your eyes peeled and let us know if you find them!
Shop the BILLY Footwear collection here.

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Best Adaptive Fashion Brands From Around the World

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When it comes to adaptive fashion, no two brands are created alike. But, how do we know which ones are truly the best? We searched all around the world for the answer and even stocked a few noteworthy brands on our platform.

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01/04/21

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M&S has launched its newest kidswear range, called Adapted for Easy Dressing. Following its Easy Dressing schoolwear range and specialist sleepsuits, it said it's the first high street retailer to launch daywear for kids with sensory or physical disabilities in Britain. And the range, which is available online-only, is made in sizes up to age 15-16.

The company said that it started with a survey of 300 parents and the kidswear range was in development for more than two years, being "conceived, designed and developed in partnership with customers including parents from three specialist schools."

All the clothes have been made with "the softest materials, fewest seams possible and hidden care labels. They've also been created to have a nod to fashion without adding unnecessary detail," we're told.

Rebecca Garner, Kidswear Designer at M&S, developed the range with Buyer Emma Chang and Technologist Charlotte Hunt. Garner said: "Parents told us that disabilities don't define their children, so the adaptations shouldn't define their clothes, it's why all the products are inclusively designed and modelled closely on our main collection. So whilst big sister might wear a dress with sequins, the little one who wants to match but has sensory needs will have a softer glitter. And parents purchasing Easy Dressing products will never pay more."

Specific product innovations include trousers and shorts with the zips and buttons replaced by a straightforward popper; leggings with flat-lock seams that are mainly used in sports leggings; T-shirts with a soft velcro fastening at the back of the neck for easy over-the-head dressing; T-shirts and dresses with discreet pockets for a feeding tube; coats and gilets with Velcro down the front and back so they're easier to put on by those in a wheelchair; shirts with soft Velcro behind the buttons; and baby onesies with dimensions to allow for a cast, suitable for babies with hip dysplasia.

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M&S launches first high street range for kids with disabilities

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M&S has launched its newest kidswear range, called Adapted for Easy Dressing. Following its Easy Dressing schoolwear range and specialist sleepsuits, it said it's the first high street retailer to launch daywear for kids with sensory or physical disabilities in Britain. And the range, which is available online-only, is made in sizes up to age 15-16.

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Reading for some inspiration and to gather thoughts about what I feel the most important things are I should include in my range plan

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Here are some stats: Roughly 85.3 million people in the U.S. are living with a disability, according to recent Census Bureau data. That represents nearly 30 percent of the population. The American Institutes for Research estimates the disposable income of this group to be a massive $490 billion USD per year which, for perspective, lands just behind two of the country's largest market segments - African-Americans at $501 billion USD and Hispanics at $582 billion USD.

Those numbers beg the question: how, in the age of inclusivity, is the fashion industry still widely ignoring individuals with disabilities?

Some brands have recognized the power of this consumer group and reacted accordingly. In the premium and luxury realm, Tommy Hilfiger all but dominates the conversation. Its Tommy Adaptive line launched for kids in 2016 and later expanded to adults with the Fall/Winter 2017 season, describing itself as "designed for all, with innovative features to ensure getting dressed is easier than ever." For all intents and purposes, the range fulfills its duty by incorporating features like magnetic buttons, adjustable leg openings and easy-to-use closures. Crucially, the clothes are aesthetically on par with the brand's core collection, offering a stylish option in a realm where the product overarchingly skews toward function over fashion. And equally important, the pricing holds flat.

While this constitutes a stellar choice for people whose preferences lean toward Americana, Tommy Hilfiger alone can't be charged with filling the void of an entire industry.

"It's much better than it was 10 years ago, there's no denying that. But there's much work to be done. A lot of brands are stuck at visibility and tokenism as opposed to true representation," said Cax, a model and amputee who herself has worked with Tommy Hilfiger, as well as Diesel, Nordstrom and the United Nations, to name a few. At New York Fashion Week's Spring/Summer 2019 shows, she made waves after walking Chromat's runway with her prosthetic leg.

But even though the inclusivity movement has left no label - big or small - off the hook when it comes to embracing customers of different races, sizes or genders, change has been far more sluggish when it comes to including people with disabilities. As brands scramble to be (or at least appear to be) diverse, this community has still been excluded from the lionshare of high-profile editorials, or propped in them solely for their "differences." It'd be half-baked to say that they're being completely cut out, however, as some pioneers have shown how to consistently make room for all.

When 16-year-old Matthew Walzer wrote toin 2015 about his desire to put on sneakers without any help, the company spent three intensive years developing the FlyEase, an innovative footwear range that can be taken off or put on in just one fluid motion. Names like Pyer Moss, Chromat and ASOS have seamlessly included models of varying shapes and sizes in campaigns and on the runway, helping to normalize what, in essence, should already be normal.

Watchmaker Eone is in a lane of its own with what it markets as the "first-ever tell time by touch design," implementing features like raised markers and magnetized ball bearings that the wearer can feel. And Teen Vogue's groundbreaking "The New Faces of Fashion" covers last fall spotlighted Cax, as well as two other women with unique bodies and stories for its September issue.

The common thread throughout many of these initiatives is that it didn't require a specific line of "adaptive" wear to bring people with disabilities into the picture. But rather simply the understanding that they, at the core, really just want to dress stylishly along with everyone else.

"In general I don't wear adaptive clothing. I'm not in search of it. I wear what I like," explained Jourdie Godley, a fashion consultant and content creator who was born with Cerebral Palsy and primarily uses a wheelchair.

"Why not make it accessible to begin with? It's thinking about everybody and a lot of brands don't think about others."

Godley spent most of his life in Asia and moved to the U.S. two years ago. But his affinity for pieces from countries like Korea, China, and Thailand have held firm, listing Daily Mirror, FFIXXED STUDIOS and Pattric Boyle among his favorites. The point that he stresses as needing the most fixing - whether the brand offers adaptive pieces or not - is a sentiment shared among other underrepresented communities: the amount of misportrayal and lack of representation in the industry.

"If you're hiring a black model to put in a campaign but you don't have a makeup artist that has a foundation that matches their skin, what are you doing? And it's the same - you're hiring someone with a disability but your shooting space is not accessible, and when this goes to print or online and people see it and praise those brands, what they don't see is what happens behind the scenes," Cax explained.

"It's so much more than having a wheelchair ramp," stated Chromat CEO and creative director Becca McCharen-Tran, whose architectural background has long supported her in creating garments that can function like tools or help to enhance abilities. Her SS19 show was no one-time fluke either, as her "empowering swimwear" line has championed diversity in body types for years.

"It's trying to be aware and the biggest thing for me is to collaborate instead of just taking. We are actively collaborating with different people so it's built with the community not outside of it," she said.

Nonprofit Open Style Lab (OSL) is another rarity that understands the end-to-end effort required to reflect this community's unspoken needs. The organization, which was founded at MIT in 2014, holds classes in collaboration with Parsons School of Design and defines itself as "dedicated to making style accessible to people of all abilities." In February, its "Universal Materiality" exhibition showcased experimental garments designed for elderly rehabilitation patients, while taking care to ensure that the installation details - down to the mannequins - were universal and gender-fluid.

"When you look into the future it's thinking about how can you keep things modular? Wool can absorb a lot of sweat, [for example], so what other performance fabrics can we apply to non-performance clothing? We also talked about how sensors can be put into clothing to track range of motion," explained Christina Mallon, a board member with OSL.

Mallon, who was diagnosed with a motor neuron disease nine years ago that eventually left her arms paralyzed, has worked with companies including Woolmark, Polartec and IKEA and advocates for using wearables while making sure style is kept at the forefront of it all.

"We learned that with Google Glass," she said. "It was a great technology but it wasn't stylish enough at the onset and people didn't get it."

Even if the offerings of adaptive clothing and fashionable options are improving, people with disabilities still face huge structural barriers to achieve equity with able-bodied people, as best exemplified by one statistic in particular: unemployment. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for those with a disability was just 19.1 percent for 2018, versus 65.9 percent for those without. The gaping difference speaks for itself; hence the reason a comparable pricing structure, as exemplified by Tommy Hilfiger, is critical.

"The larger conversation is intersectionality and the hardship that people with disabilities have to incur just to experience everyday things, from coffee shops to where I get my lunch to where I drink at night. We have to incur more expenses than the average person because our needs are so hard to come by," said Quemuel Arroyo, Chief Accessibility Specialist and ADA Coordinator at the NYC Department of Transportation.

Arroyo, who is paraplegic resulting from a mountain biking accident in 2007, has personally grown to favor Rag & Bone for its quality materials and altering services. While he concurs that he's more than ready for sartorial terms like "sexy, hip and creative" to become more naturally associated with "disability," he digs deeper than fashion in order to shed light on a much more glaring issue.

"The reality is that people with disabilities have not yet gotten the highlight that we deserve as members of society."

"[Society's] infrastructure hasn't identified this population as people who spend money or people who travel. I become fringe not by choice but by design, and it is human-created. We're not a fringe community, we're not an outlier, they just haven't been seeing us," he added.

And while fashion can't be expected to reform society as a whole, there's no denying the power of image, which in itself can be a huge agent for change in helping people with disabilities be truly seen.

"Bigger brands have a responsibility to lead the way and if they don't no one will follow suit. People are still scared of desiring people with disabilities but the more brands include us, the more it will alter peoples' perception of disability and that will then change the flow in people's daily lives," said Godley.

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It's Long Overdue for Fashion to Think About People With Disabilities

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Here are some stats: Roughly 85.3 million people in the U.S. are living with a disability, according to recent Census Bureau data. That represents nearly 30 percent of the population.

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01/04/21

Fashion influencer who is also blind - similar to Molly Burke.

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01/04/21

These are the only two companies I have found who have created a blind - focused range (or in their case full brand) so far.

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Over the past few the years, great strides have been made to ensure that all people, regardless of disability, have access to quality clothing. There have always been products available that help the visually impaired identify the clothes in their closet. APH has tags you can attaches to the label of clothing to identify color. There are also many apps you can put on your phone that identify color. However, today the blind and visually impaired can identify clothes before they get to the closet.

Two Blind Brothers, a non-profit company, makes clothing that can be identified from the label and the braille color word is on the actual shirt. The material of the shirts is also made to feel softer than your average shirt. The proceeds of each product sold goes directly to help fight blindness.

Individuals are also making a difference. Maria Sol Unga, a designer in Buenos Aires, has designed clothing that includes braille descriptions, and braille tags already sewn into the apparel. To help shoppers choose clothing, she has diagrams in braille available with the outline of the shirt, and a description of the fabric and color. She also designs specifics for clothing, like a cane pocket in a shirt or pants.

A new type of company has also emerged, making clothes on the market more accessible to buy and wear. The shopping experience starts on an accessible website, such as White Cane Label. They ask you what type of clothes you prefer, then offer suggestions. After purchasing the products, they add the labels and include Braille cards that include washing instructions.

I have been teaching for 24 years, and I think this new trend is amazing. My students have the opportunity to participate in an activity that is a huge part of society. They can be proud of the fact that they made choices about how they look and be knowledgeable about fashion and trends.

More information about APH clothing tags here.

More information about Two Blind Brothers here.

More information about Maria Sol Unga here.

More information about White Cane Label here.

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Clothing Choices for the Blind and Visually Impaired

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Over the past few the years, great strides have been made to ensure that all people, regardless of disability, have access to quality clothing. There have always been products available that help the visually impaired identify the clothes in their closet. APH has tags you can attaches to the label of clothing to identify color.

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09/04/21
"Currently, the only beauty brand using braille is L’Occitane."

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We all know that fashion and beauty aren't the most accessible industries in the world. How often do you see disabled models? Or websites and stores that are totally accessible? Beauty blogger Emily Davidson shares a post from her blog, Fashioneyesta, on the simple changes that retailers could make to be fully accessible to disabled and visually impaired people.

So, I'm a disabled person, I have a visual impairment and I work with a guide dog. But I'm also a fashion and beauty blogger. I've worked with a lot of brands and have a lot of experience in the industry.

Even though it is getting better in terms of disability inclusion with regards to working with disabled influencers and accessibility, there is still work to do done.

Before writing this post about what needs to happen next, I asked my disabled followers Twitter to share their thoughts. I got an overwhelming response and their answers have really helped me to shape this post.

A photo of Emily and guide dog Unity standing in a London street

1. Website and app accessibility

Let's start with website and app accessibility, an area that is vital for many disabled people who find it difficult to physically get out to shop. In a Twitter poll, I asked my followers whether they were more likely to shop online or in store. 80% voted online and 20% in store.

As a visually impaired person who requires the use of assistive technology, such as screen reading devices, some online websites and apps can be very difficult to negotiate.

Poor colour contrast, text that is too small and videos that load the minute you visit a website are all problematic. This is especially true if there is no way to customise a website's accessibility to suit your needs.

Many of the people I asked felt that beauty and fashion websites don't provide detailed enough descriptions of clothes' size, patterns and colour.

But there is certainly more companies could do to improve. Here are some key pointers for website developers when it comes to accessibility...

Keep it clean. Make sure the website or app has a clear and easy layout and that all the buttons and toggles are easy to find.

Make it easy to navigate. Don't make the first thing they see a video or flash pop-up. They make life incredibly difficult for screen reader users.

Make sure it has a clear colour contrast. If the background is white make the text dark and vice versa.

Ensure that it is coded to be compatible with screen readers and other access features. Do this by labelling buttons, making it possible to zoom in, ensuring images have alternative text and limiting pop-ups.

Make sure you provide detailed descriptions of items, such as colour, pattern, style, care instructions and size for clothes. With beauty products, ensure there is detailed information on the colour, shade range and ingredients.

If you include videos, ensure that they provide transcripts or closed captions. If you cannot add them to the video directly, use a platform like YouTube where you can upload them.

Photograph the models sitting down as well as standing up so that wheelchair users can see how the clothes look in this position. Or, better yet, employ wheelchair users as models.

Think about having your own accessibility toggle with options to invert colours, greyscale and text size.

If a disabled customer or service user contacts you about your website's accessibility features, please acknowledge it and take their feedback on board. All too often I hear stories of companies that simply respond with, "we'll look into it," and do nothing to improve there website.

I have even heard of an instance where someone was blocked by a company when they tried to give constructive feedback. This is incredibly narrow-minded because the disability community is huge, making up 15% of the world's population. It's both moral and sensible to ensure that we are catered for.

2. Social media accessibility

Now, let's talk about social media. Luckily with social media, a lot of websites, including Twitter and Instagram, are doing things to make their websites more accessible. All companies need to do is follow a few simple guidelines when they're using these platforms to make sure it's accessible to their disabled following.

If you want to read a very compressive blog post on websites, social media and accessibility, check out this blog post by My Blurred World.

One of the best things you can do for those with visual impairments is to add a description of the photo.

With Twitter and Instagram, there is a specific option to add picture descriptions to an image. You just need to ensure it is activated and that you add a brief description of what the image is showing before you share it.

With other websites, such as Facebook and Google, just start the picture description with the words 'photo description' or something of that nature.

If you use YouTube or upload a video to social media, add closed captions or a transcript so that those with hearing loss or difficulty understanding English can watch the video.

If you tweet under a certain hashtag, be sure that you capitalise the first letter of each word. For example, instead of writing the hashtag #disabledaccessday, write it as #DisabledAccessDay. This is because screen readers do not pronounce a hashtag correctly when there are no capital letters to differentiate between each new word.

Don't use too many GIFs as they are not accessible to screen readers.

Add audio descriptions to videos where there is no audio feedback.

Be conscious of disabled customer's needs if they reach out to you via social media.

Be sure to give descriptions to clothes, makeup looks and any products you are promoting online.

Design and packaging accessibility

When I asked a question about this on Twitter, a lot of people had a lot to say about it. So, I'm going to split this into two sections on fashion and beauty.

First and foremost, if you want to make your products more accessible, the most important thing you can do as a brand is to ask disabled customers. If you are unsure, run focus groups, ask advice from disability bloggers and run surveys and polls. You will get valuable feedback to help you develop your products and make them more accessible.

Distinctive packaging

Comfortable clothing and shoes

4. Store accessibility

One of the big reasons why disabled people prefer to shop online is because stores are simply not accessible enough. I've been to many stores that have been cramped or difficult to get around because of huge boxes in the way. I've also almost been bashed in the head by clothing rails.

I work in retail myself within a beauty company, so I know how hard visual merchandising and layout can be, especially if it's busy or you haven't got a lot of space to work with. I get it. But, it's important to try and ensure that stores are accessible as possible for disabled customers.

Layout: Layout should be spacious and easy to navigate. People with wheelchairs, assistance dogs, mobility aids and prams need space to be able to move through a store. Don't leave boxes or other stocking equipment lying around where it can get in people's way.

Display: When displaying items, make sure everything is neat and tidy and in its place. Have a system for organising things and stick to it. Try not to move things around and drastically change a layout if it's become familiar. Don't cram clothes in, making it hard to see what is what. Try and keep on top of organising by sizing items.

Ramps: Make sure your store has ramp access.

Lifts: If your store has a downstairs, include a lift and make sure it is always in working order.

Lighting: Have good lighting and make sure it isn't too harsh or dingy for those with sensory and cognitive disabilities.

Accessible changing rooms: Changing rooms can be made accessible by having a larger space, lower hooks and hoists.

Disabled toilets: If you have a toilet, add an accessible one with enough space and equipment.

Doors: If you have manual doors, is there someone on hand to open them? Alternatively, automatic doors are great for disabled people, especially those with guide dogs, wheelchairs or mobility issues.

Hearing loops: Offer hearing loop systems for people with hearing aids.

Music: Be mindful of the music playing. Is it too loud or distracting? Music can often be a huge deterrent for people with sensory and cognitive disabilities.

Accessibility information: List all relevant accessibility information about your stores on your website.

5. Staff training

Staff training is essential in proving good disability-confident customer service. There are plenty of charities and organisations that can support companies to either develop their own training programme for staff and management or work with a training company to deliver it.

Honestly, having a disability-confident member of staff can be a really positive thing, not only for the disabled person but for the business as well.

A lot of beauty brands offer free consultations, which I think could be fantastic for people who have disabilities and need more assistance in getting to grips with makeup and products.

Some fashion brands, such as Topshop, also offer personal shopping services in certain stores. Many shopping centres offer a personal shopping service, which gives you access to stores in the shopping centre. All great initiatives.

But, there are some key things that all staff members should know about when it comes to disabled customers...

Assistance dog awareness: I've been refused access to stores because security or staff members don't know the laws surrounding guide dogs when it comes to entering establishments. This is an area that is of paramount importance.

Guiding: Ensure staff are confident in knowing how to guide someone with a visual impairment and basic guiding techniques.

Deaf awareness: If someone is deaf or hard of hearing, be sure to face them so that they can see what you are saying if they can lip read.

Offering support: Being on hand to offer support to a disabled customer, such as giving detailed descriptions of products and clothing if a person cannot see it can also help as well, is important.

6. Representation

As a disabled influencer, one of the most important things a brand can do is to include us. Represent us, work with us and normalise us.

Brands are certainly getting better when it comes to representing diversity, disability included. Many influencers, such as Jordan Bone and Molly Burke, have worked with affluent beauty brands including Dove and L'Oreal.

Benefit recently signed , a model with Down's Syndrome, to appear in its campaigns. Slowly we are seeing more disabled models like Kelly Knox at fashion week.

I myself as an influencer have had the opportunity to work with brands, such as Being by Sanctuary and Superdrug, on their brand campaigns. I also often get to work with brands on new releases. Its a wonderful feeling to be included and to represent the disability community.

But, that doesn't mean to say that all brands are doing enough to represent us in their campaigns. Represent us in your adverts, work with disabled influencers in your online campaigns and show that you believe disability inclusion matters.

Don't just showcase us once every so often, we deserve to be an integral part of your advertorial demographical all the time.
More on Disability Horizons...

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How fashion and beauty brands can be more accessible

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Disabled people buy clothes and beauty products just like anyone else. So why aren't fashion and beauty brands more accessible? Visually impaired blogger Emily explains what simple things can be done to make them accessible.

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10/04/21

Brands like Aerie are embracing diversity in their models

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On January 23, Aerie launched its 2020 #AerieREAL campaign.
Andrew Buda/Getty Images for Aerie

Six years ago, American Eagle's loungewear and lingerie line, Aerie launched its #AerieREAL campaign, a bold commitment to stop photo-editing pictures of its models. The mission of #AerieREAL is to promote body positivity and diversity and to encourage their competitors to do the same. To represent the brand and its message, Aerie selects a group of Role Models who represent "real" women igniting change in the world through diverse careers and philanthropic efforts.

Jennifer Foyle, Aerie's global brand president, spearheads the #AerieREAL campaign. She explains the process of selecting its brand ambassadors, known as "Role Models": "As a team, we follow and connect with influential, real women across social media, at industry events, and by listening to our customers. Our Role Models represent social causes that are important to our Aerie community and the issues that impact their daily lives. We have open conversations with our customers around who and what inspires them. The Aerie community is diverse, so it's important to be representative of the different backgrounds and beliefs of our customers to ensure they feel their voices heard in everything we do."

The #AerieREAL Role Model initiative has a strong track record of authentically representing the disability community. Although many lingerie brands, like Savage X Fenty, ThirdLove and Adore Me, have made great strides in representing diversity in terms of race, gender expression and body type, they too often lack disability representation. Aerie is a leader, especially on this front. In the past, they've brought on gold medal paralympic snowboarder Brenna Huckaby and blind Youtuber and motivational speaker Molly Burke.

"Currently, when I see disability inclusion, it often feels like tokenism," Burke explains, "which is not what we need. If I ever feel like a brand is trying to use my disability for "brownie points," I walk away from the opportunity. [But] Aerie has NEVER made me feel that way - their use of women with disabilities is authentic, and I couldn't be more appreciative of that."

For the Spring 2020 Real Model cohort, Tony-winner actress Ali Stroker joins the #AerieREAL family. Stroker made history in mid-2019 when she became the first wheelchair-user ever to win a Tony award. Stroker was selected along with actresses Lana Condor and Beanie Feldstein, activists Hari Nef and Manuela Barón, Smile On Me founder Dre Thomas, wellness activist Tiff McFierce and scientist Keiana Cavé. (Current Role Models Brenna Huckaby and Molly Burke - along with Aly Raisman, Iskra Lawrence and Jenna Kutcher - are also a part of the 2020 campaign).

On the day of the 2020 #AerieREAL Role Model cohort announcement, Stroker had just performed the last show of her Oklahoma! tour. However, rather than being exhausted, as one might expect, she was jolting with excitement and joy.

"When I was growing up," Stoker recalls, "I didn't see anyone like me modeling the clothes that I loved to wear. And I think that getting the opportunity to not just be a role model, but to be living by this motto of learning to love all of yourself. And [that's] the best feeling every day: to remind yourself love the skin you're in, this is what you've got and to own it. And it's been so exciting to meet the other role models, powerful women all doing good in the world."

Stroker's personal motto for this campaign is "turning limitations into opportunities." She believes that every person has some sort of limitations - some more visible than others -but the individual has the chance to transform the challenges into opportunities.

Aerie has taken one step further to be inclusive of its customers with disabilities. They've recently launched a collection with Abilitee Adaptive Wear and Slick Chicks that includes ostomy covers, insulin pump belts, accessories and underwear for customers with disabilities and medical needs. The collection was designed to empower women with disabilities and physical constraints and give them confidence.

Foyle foresees the #AerieReal campaign and its accompanying Role Models initiative going strong for many years to come. "Aerie is committed to providing our customers with Role Models who create the change they want to see in the world. We will continue to partner with women who embrace the Aerie lifestyle, and who have the confidence to use their influential voices to nurture an inclusive, empowering community for women everywhere."

Burke shared a few words of advice to the newest members of the #AerieREAL Role Models family: "The first thing I'd say is don't be afraid to lean on your fellow REAL Role Models for advice and support. We truly are a big family, and that's definitely one of my favorite parts about the campaign - the friends I've made. I can truly say that some of my fellow REAL Role Models have become some of my closest friends and supporters, and there's always room for more love! I would also say not to be afraid to tell Aerie your hopes, dreams, and passions because they really are a company and a brand that wants to support you and help you achieve your goals."

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Aerie Continues To Include Authentic Disability Representation - Ali Stroker Joins #AerieREAL Role Model Family

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Six years ago, American Eagle's loungewear and lingerie line, Aerie launched its #AerieREAL campaign, a bold commitment to stop photo-editing pictures of its models. The mission of #AerieREAL is to promote body positivity and diversity and to encourage their competitors to do the same.

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13/04/21

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Clothing Made For Assisted Dressing

When it comes to sustainability and style for disabled communities, adaptive fashion is usually left behind; pieces that include magnetic closures, chest port access, or velcro shoes don't necessarily keep "eco-friendly ethics" top-of-mind. But everyone deserves access to clothing that feels comfortable and conscious.

While we hope more sustainable brands will cater to the needs of every body and vice versa, we've found seven wonderful options for adaptive clothing. These brands offer everything from braille socks to side-fastening underwear to swimwear that gives back, and many tout sustainable fabrics and practices.

After watching her legally blind son, Wani, struggle to get ready on his own in the mornings, Gracie Benedith-Cane decided to create Braille Code Brands. By applying braille patches to the outside of socks or inside a pair of shoes, anyone who's visually impaired can easily and independently understand how each piece is meant to be worn. You can order Braille Code Brands socks or patches directly here or at adaptive marketplace Patti and Ricky!

Designed in France and handmade in Brazil, Vejas' V-Lock velcro shoes will slip right on. These stylish and sustainable sneakers are made with bio-sourced, recycled, and organic materials like Amazonian rubber, sugar cane, rice waste, and organic cotton-all responsibly sourced. Available in a number of colors in European and UK stores, you can also find the Veja V-Lock at US retailers like REI, Bloomingdales, and Zappos.

A 30-second newsletter delivered to your inbox each morning with tips for self-care and sustainable living. 🌿 Join over 200,000 readers who start their day with something good.✨

The Good Trade editors endorse products we genuinely love. If you end up making a purchase through one of our affiliate links, we may earn a commission. Learn more .

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7 Brands Making Adaptive Clothing For Disabled People

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When it comes to sustainability and style for disabled communities, adaptive fashion is usually left behind; pieces that include magnetic closures, chest port access, or velcro shoes don't necessarily keep "eco-friendly ethics" top-of-mind. But everyone deserves access to clothing that feels comfortable and conscious.

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22/04/21

I have decided to use the modelling agency Zebedee to find blind female models to market the range. The website is great because you can find out what disabilities the models have alongside their picture, age and name.

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Zebedee Management | Models With Disabilities | Home

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SPECIALIST TALENT AGENTS​ - supplying diverse models and offering sensitive representation.

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22/04/21

More information on what accessible items there are in the world, however this time they are made to be fashionable and aesthetically pleasing.

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For blind or visually impaired people, simply checking the time can be difficult. Those without sight problems may take the freedom of glancing at clocks and watches for granted. Not realize that being unable to stay informed of the exact time is a bigger hurdle for blind or visually impaired people than it should be.

While modern gadgets (smartphones, tablets) can tell you the time upon request, people with sight restrictions should still have the option to wear a quality watch catering to their exact needs. It's much more convenient than having to take your phone out and accessing the right function each time, especially if you're using it for another task. Thankfully, there have also been technological advances in watches too, making them more practical for those with impairments. Sites like semerika.com highlight just how significant these advancements are.

RightHear's team is committed to helping blind and visually impaired people navigate indoor and outdoor environments far more easily, safely and conveniently. We know accessible timekeeping is vital too, so to help you, we explore the top 3 watch brands catering to blind or visually impaired users below.

#1: Eone

Eone was launched by Hyungsoo Kim, inspired by a blind friend's difficulty in staying informed of the time. He felt self-conscious using his talking watch in lectures and relied on Kim instead.

As a result, Kim established Eone to give blind and visually impaired people more freedom in their choice of timepiece. Their signature watch is the Bradley: this elegant piece allows you to tell the time by touching the raised markers on the face. Hours and minutes are tracked by two ball bearings circling the face in recessed paths.

The Bradley is an innovative watch that delivers a unique way to stay connected with time in a tactile way. Multiple designs are available.

#2: Time Optics

Time Optics has an extensive selection of quality talking watches. Their range is aimed at people of all ages, from kids to the elderly.

The designs are elegant and sophisticated, with ladies and men's watches in traditional styles and their 'time teaching watches' can help children develop their time-telling skills, and boast colorful designs. Time Optics offers a watch-setting service too, so your timepiece will arrive set correctly.

This brand has developed the Unique Custom Tooled Talking IC Watch Chip too. This includes a Dual Voice and an alarm, enabling both a male and female voice to announce the time, day, date, month and year.

Low vision watches are built for easy-to-see convenience, featuring a strong contrast between the numbers, hands and face background.

#3: Almeda

Sometimes, you will have multiple appointments or commitments in one day. While you may be able to set a single alarm on your watch, what do you do about remembering the rest of your responsibilities?

Almeda produces watches featuring six alarms, catering to people affected by blindness or visual impairments. To maintain your discretion, though, Almeda's timepieces notify you via vibrations rather than noisy alarms, keeping you aware without drawing attention to yourself.

On top of this, they focus on style and modern design, suitable for casual, formal and other occasions.

#4: Dot

The Dot Watch is the first braille smartwatch, that was released in December 2016 and bringing modern innovation to the visually impaired.

The face features 24 shifting dots that are powered by magnets and electrical signals and linked to a smartphone via Bluetooth to display time, text and app notifications. Dot not only revolutionizes bulky, expensive machines but it provides the freedom of a wearable many sighted people enjoy.

The Dot Watch unleashes it's full potential to those who can read Braille. But it's also the perfect device to getting started: The Dot Watch Braille learning program is a simple, intuitive and entertaining way to learn and practice Braille letters and words.

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The right watch with the right features can make a significant difference to your timekeeping. Have you had a positive experience with any of these brands? Share your stories below!

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4 Watch Brands Catering to Blind and Visually Impaired People | RightHear

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For blind or visually impaired people, simply checking the time can be difficult. Those without sight problems may take the freedom of glancing at clocks and watches for granted. Not realize that being unable to stay informed of the exact time is a bigger hurdle for blind or visually impaired people than it should be.

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09/04/21

I have looked into this and have decided that this is not a section that I would like to continue pursuing in this project. This could be a next step action for Pull&Bear to take.

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Every hour, someone in the UK starts to lose their sight. By shopping at The Guide Dogs Shop you're helping raise money for Guide Dogs services.

Light Up Twinkles Christmas Dog Bandana

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Dog Treats & Toys Accessories | Dogalogue | Guide Dogs

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08/04/21

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09/04/21

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How to navigate your iPhone with VoiceOver — Apple Support

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07/04/21

RP definition

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NORD (National Organization for Rare Disorders)

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NORD gratefully acknowledges Alessandro Iannaccone, MD, MS, FARVO, Professor of Ophthalmology, Director, Duke Center for Retinal Degenerations & Ophthalmic Genetic Diseases and Duke Eye Center Visual Function Diagnostic Laboratory, Duke University Medical Center; and Jay Berdia, MD, Medical Retina Fellow, Duke Eye Center, and for assistance in the preparation of this report.

Synonyms of Retinitis Pigmentosa

progressive pigmentary retinopathy

rod-cone dystrophy

RP

General Discussion

Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) comprises a large group of inherited vision disorders that cause progressive degeneration of the retina, the light sensitive membrane that coats the inside of the eyes. Peripheral (or side) vision gradually decreases and eventually is lost in most cases. Central vision is usually preserved until late in these conditions. Some forms of RP can be associated with deafness, obesity, kidney disease, and various other general health problems, including central nervous system and metabolic disorders, and occasionally chromosomal abnormalities.

Signs & Symptoms

RP usually begins as night or dim light visual impairment (that is, difficulty in seeing in dimly lit environments or at dusk, or adapting to, or recovering function in, dim light after being in bright light for any length of time). Typically, this is followed by the affected individual's growing awareness of a loss of peripheral vision. Symptoms are more often noticed between the age 10 and 40, but earlier and later onset forms of RP exist. Characteristically, symptoms develop gradually over time. The sudden onset of these same symptoms should point to a different cause, such as an autoimmune process. Older people with sudden onset of these symptoms are especially at risk for experiencing them as the result of having cancer (so called paraneoplastic retinopathy, which often co-occurs with an optic nerve involvement as well).

The rate and extent of progression of visual loss in RP can vary. The way that peripheral vision is lost in RP has been especially well characterized by various authors. It has been reported in various studies that the most variable aspect is the age of onset of the symptoms. This can vary not only between families and between subtypes of RP, but also within families. However, after that, the rate and modality of progression tends to follow a fairly predictable and stereotyped exponential pattern. This pattern signifies that, during the first decade of symptomatic disease patients experience a slower rate of disease progression, which then accelerates during the subsequent two decades, to slow again during the remainder of life. When other members of a family are affected, the rates of progression are often similar within that family, but some degree of variability exists in this aspect of RP too.

Some patients with RP or related disorders present with complex manifestations affecting other organs, termed "syndromes". The most common associations of RP with general health (so called "systemic") problems causing these more complex syndromes are hearing loss and obesity, and are reviewed under the "Related Syndromes" section of this review.

Causes

Retinitis pigmentosa is a group of hereditary progressive disorders that may be inherited as autosomal recessive, autosomal dominant or X-linked recessive traits. Maternally inherited variants of RP transmitted via the mitochondrial DNA can also exist.

About half of all RP cases are isolated (that is, they have no family history of the condition). RP may appear alone or in conjunction with one of several other rare disorders. Over 60 systemic disorders show some type of retinal involvement similar to RP.

Autosomal dominant disorders occur when only a single copy of a gene carries a variant (mutation) that, alone, is sufficient and necessary for the appearance of the disease. In dominant disorders, the abnormal gene can be inherited from either parent, or can be the result of a new mutation (termed a "de novo" mutation) in the affected individual. The risk of passing the abnormal gene from an affected parent to offspring is 50% for each pregnancy, regardless of the sex of the parent or of the child. However, in some forms of dominant diseases including some types of dominant RP, patients that inherit the mutated gene will not develop the disease, or will develop a very mild form of it, due to a phenomenon called incomplete penetrance. The RP11 gene ( PRPF31) causing autosomal dominant RP is especially prone to doing this, which poses a significant diagnostic challenge. Children who did not inherit the gene variant that causes the autosomal dominant disorder in question, even if born of affected patients, cannot develop the disease.

Autosomal recessive disorders occur when an individual inherits mutations in the same gene from each parent. If an individual receives one normal gene and one gene for the disease, he or she will be a carrier of the disease, but usually will not show symptoms. The risk of two carrier parents both passing the altered gene and having an affected child is 25% with each pregnancy. The risk of having a child who is a carrier, like the parents, is 50% with each pregnancy. The chance of having a child who receives normal genes for that particular trait from both parents is also 25%. The risk is the same for males and females. All children born of a person affected with an autosomal recessive condition will receive one copy of the altered gene from the affected parent. Therefore, they will be healthy carriers like the parents of the affected patient were. A child born of a patient affected with an autosomal recessive condition can be affected only if the affected parent mates with someone who is also a carrier of mutations in the same gene causing disease in the patient. If this happens, then the risk of having an affected child becomes 50%. If an affected person mates with another affected person with a disorder caused by mutations in the same gene, then their risk of having a child affected with that same genetic condition will be 100%, as long as the gene causing the disease in the two parents is the same.

Since most individuals carry a few abnormalities in their genes, parents who are close blood relatives (consanguineous) have a higher chance than do unrelated parents of both carrying the same abnormality in any given gene, which increases the risk of having children with an autosomal recessive genetic disorder. These children will typically carry the same exact change in both copies of their genes (homozygous). However, in most instances, autosomal recessive conditions arise by the serendipitous mating between two unaware healthy carriers, each typically carrying a distinct mutation in the same gene (compound heterozygous).

X-linked recessive genetic disorders are conditions caused by an abnormality in a gene on the X chromosome. Females have two X chromosomes; however, one of the X chromosomes is "turned off" or inactivated during development, a process termed "lyonization", and all of the genes on that chromosome are inactivated. Lyonization is a random process, and varies from tissue to tissue; within tissues it can also vary from cell to cell. Females who have a disease gene present on one X chromosome are carriers of that disorder. As the result of the lyonization process, most carrier females have about 50% of the normal X and 50% of the mutant X expressed in each tissue, and usually display only milder symptoms of the disorder.

Because of the randomness of the lyonization process, exceptions to this rule exist, particularly if the inactivation of one copy of the X chromosome is significantly "skewed" in favor of one of the copies. If the normal copy prevails, then female carriers can be and remain completely asymptomatic. If the mutant copy prevails, then carrier females can be affected as severely as males. At times, the pattern and ratio of inactivation of the X chromosome will vary between eyes, whereby carriers can present with significantly asymmetric disease (for example, one eye affected severely, and the other much less so). This is not at all uncommon in XLRP carriers.

Unlike females, males have only one X chromosome. If a male inherits an X chromosome that contains a disease gene, he will develop the disease. A male with an X-linked disorder passes the disease gene to all of his daughters, and the daughters will be carriers. A male cannot pass an X-linked gene to his sons because the Y chromosome (not the X chromosome) is always passed to male offspring. A female carrier of an X-linked disorder has a 50% chance with each pregnancy of having a carrier daughter, a 50% chance of having a non-carrier daughter, a 50% chance of having a son affected with the disease, and a 50% chance of having an unaffected son.

In recent years, molecular genetics advances have impacted the understanding and the classification of hereditary retinal diseases perhaps more than any other group of eye diseases, with more than 210 distinct genes mapped (that is, their approximate location on one of the chromosomes has been identified) and over 170 cloned (that is, precisely identified, located, and mutation(s) that cause forms of RP found in them).

Affected Populations

RP as a group of vision disorders affects about 1 in 3,000 to 1 in 4,000 people in the world. This means that, with a population of about 324 million in the United States in mid-July 2017 (see < http://www.census.gov/> for continuous updates), about 81,000 to 108,000 people in the United States have RP or a related disorder. With a worldwide population presently estimated at over 7.05 billion, it can be estimated that approximately 1.77 to 2.35 million people around the world have one of these disorders. Excluding age-related macular degeneration and glaucoma, the genetic causes of which are complex and linked simultaneously to more than one gene (so called "polygenic" disorders), RP is the most common cause of inherited visual loss.

Diagnosis

RP is diagnosed by electroretinography (ERG) showing progressive loss in photoreceptor function, visual field testing, and retinal imaging [mainly by optical coherence tomography (OCT) and fundus auto-fluorescence (FAF) that show detailed microanatomical features that cannot be resolved by naked eye]. Molecular genetic testing for mutations in many of the genes associated with RP is available to confirm the diagnosis.

NORD Member Organizations

Other Organizations

Years Published

1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1997, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2005, 2009, 2012, 2017

The information in NORD's Rare Disease Database is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace the advice of a physician or other qualified medical professional.

The content of the website and databases of the National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) is copyrighted and may not be reproduced, copied, downloaded or disseminated, in any way, for any commercial or public purpose, without prior written authorization and approval from NORD. Individuals may print one hard copy of an individual disease for personal use, provided that content is unmodified and includes NORD's copyright.

National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD)
55 Kenosia Ave., Danbury CT 06810 * (203)744-0100

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Retinitis Pigmentosa - NORD (National Organization for Rare Disorders)

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NORD gratefully acknowledges Alessandro Iannaccone, MD, MS, FARVO, Professor of Ophthalmology, Director, Duke Center for Retinal Degenerations & Ophthalmic Genetic Diseases and Duke Eye Center Visual Function Diagnostic Laboratory, Duke University Medical Center; and Jay Berdia, MD, Medical Retina Fellow, Duke Eye Center, and for assistance in the preparation of this report.

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10/04/21

Found a lovely quote in the video on this site about how fashion has helped Molly gain her confidence and that she has tried to become the role model she always needed growing up but never had.

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As a YouTuber and motivational speaker, Molly shares it all-from personal stories to beauty tips to mental health and anti-bullying advocacy. And she just happens to be blind. Molly started to lose her sight when she was just 4 years old, but that hasn't stopped her from fighting for inclusivity and accessibility for all. Her real power is acceptance.

Throughout her journey, Molly found a way to view blindness as a gift:

"I am able to take people for who they are and not judge them for what they look like. I get to see the real person, the inside of them, before making any judgements."

"My personal style is anything that is unique. Anything most people wouldn't wear, I'm going to rock it!"

"Once I loved myself because I was actually being genuine and authentic to who I am, that's the moment I actually started making more genuine connections with people and more genuine friendships, because the people I was meeting actually knew Molly."

Meet all of your new #AerieREAL Role Models here.

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Get to know #AerieREAL Role Model Molly Burke - #AerieREAL Life

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As a YouTuber and motivational speaker, Molly shares it all-from personal stories to beauty tips to mental health and anti-bullying advocacy. And she just happens to be blind. Molly started to lose her sight when she was just 4 years old, but that hasn't stopped her from fighting for inclusivity and accessibility for all.

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10/04/21

I didn't end up using information from this source in my essay but I found it to be an insightful read.

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YouTuber Molly Burke Is Using Beauty & Fashion To Be The Role Model She Never Had - EXCLUSIVE

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Working in beauty and fashion, I'm surrounded by people who, more often than not, draw beauty inspiration from what they see, both in the famous faces that grace our screens and on social media. However, I recently met one influencer who doesn't...

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23/03/21

I sent this email to Molly on the off chance she would see it and respond. I am however going to undertake more primary research via a survey as well.

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08/04/21

Pull & Bear's about page has helped me put in words how to describe their style and product offer. I have used this source many times throughout my project.

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History

1991

The Pull&Bear chain of fashion stores was born, a result of a market segmentation strategy initiated by the Inditex Group. This was the moment when people were demanding a basic fashion style influenced by international trends, fashion that could also quickly adapt to their needs, with three fundamental premises: fashion, price and quality. The underlying idea of Pull&Bear was to bring fashion to the people.

1992

The ability to understand the concept of global fashion, along with an aggressive price policy, facilitated its international expansion from 1992 onwards, with the opening of their first stores in Portugal.

1995

Pull&Bear arrived to Greece and Malta, and quickly gained strong position on both markets.

1997

First store openings in Israel.

1998

The first collection for women sees the light of the day. Xdye is also added to the Pull&Bear line, offering sportier and more technological garments, from the very beginning linked to the icons of 21st century youth: music, technology, artistic movements, social issues, etc. That same year, the first website is created and the first stores open in Cyprus.

1999

New product lines boosted the creation of stores where music, technology, videogames and video images are mixed with clothes to offer customers an authentic life style.

2000

The first Pull&Bear store was opened in Kuwait.

2001

The new clothes line, Sickonineteen, is added to stores, also directed at a young market. Pull&Bear enters the United Arab Emirate, Irish and Venezuelan markets that same year.

2002

First stores open in Mexico, Jordan, Bahrain, Qatar and Lebanon.

2003

First stores open in Andorra and Slovakuia.

2004

Pull&Bear arrives in Romania and Russia.

2005

The first stores open in France, Italy, Turkey and the Czech Republic.

2006

El Salvador, Lithuania, Poland and Singapore become new markets.

2007

Pull&Bear arrives to the Slovenian, Belgian, Saudi Arabian, Guatemalan, Latvian, Malaysian, Serbian and Hungarian markets.

2008

They enter the Indonesian, Montenegro, UK and Egyptian markets. Pull&Bear begins publishing their catalogue exclusively on their website to prevent paper consumption, thus reducing their environmental impact. The project is complemented by helping the Sierra Gorda Biosphere Reserve reforestation in Mexico, simultaneously getting engaged in the issues concerning climate change and the poverty existing in local communities.

2009

Croatia, Ukraine, Estonia and China become new markets.

2010

Stores open in Bulgaria, Macao SAR, Hong Kong SAR and Kazakhstan.

2011

Pull&Bear begins to operate in Holland, Morocco and Korea. The online store goes live for the first time on 6 September. Pull&Bear celebrates its 20th anniversary (1991-2011) with a limited edition collection for children, Pull&Bear for Kids. The year also sees the launch of the Premium line for men, Pull&Bear Heritage, targeting its adult customers that have grown up with the brand.

2012

First openings of stores in Austria, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Colombia, Ecuador, Georgia, Honduras, Macedonia, Dominican Republic and Thailand. In Switzerland, Sweden, Monaco, Luxemburg and Denmark, Pull&Bear operates exclusively online.

2013

First openings of stores in Germany, Costa Rica, Panama and Taiwan,China. The online store in Romania is launched. The first organic cotton denim collection is launched.

2015

Launch of the first global campaign, Be More Barrio. Opening of the first physical stores in Switzerland and Sweden.

2016

Pull&Bear's online store expands its presence in 12 new European markets and is now present in a total of 33 markets worldwide. First physical stores open in Nicaragua and Luxembourg.

2017

First openings of brick-and-mortar stores in Belarus and Vietnam. The brand becomes the main sponsor of Pull&Bear Pantin Classic Galicia Pro, a major surfing competition, and develops an environmental project involving waste collection and recycling.

2018

Pull&Bear launches its first Join Life capsule collection - this is the label used by the Inditex Group to identify garments created using the best sustainable raw materials and processes.

2019

Pull&Bear has partnered with Primavera Sound, a world-renowned music festival.

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The Pull&Bear chain of fashion stores was born, a result of a market segmentation strategy initiated by the Inditex Group. This was the moment when people were demanding a basic fashion style influenced by international trends, fashion that could also quickly adapt to their needs, with three fundamental premises: fashion, price and quality.

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08/04/21

Similar use and reasoning for utilising the link as above website.

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Pull&Bear aims to dress dynamic young people who favour fresh, fun styling and are connected to each other and the world.

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11/04/21

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The Worlds Most Popular Windows Screen Reader What is a screen reader? A screen reader is a software program that enables a blind or visually impaired user to read the text that is displayed on the computer screen with a speech synthesizer or braille display. JAWS, Job Access With Speech, is the world’s most popular screen reader, developed for computer users whose vision loss prevents them from seeing screen content or navigating with a mouse. JAWS provides speech and braille output for the most popular computer applications on your PC…

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11/04/21

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Voice Assistant + TalkBack

Samsung and Google have been working closely to provide a unique, accessible, and unified experience throughout Android devices.
Now, Samsung's Voice Assistant and Google's TalkBack are merged into one unified screen reader. With both Voice Assistant & TalkBack's unique identities in control, you now have a much more convenient and effective screen reader across all of your Android devices.
Experience the new TalkBack provided by One UI 3.0.

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Mobile Voice Assistant | Accessibility | Samsung UK

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Samsung and Google have been working closely to provide a unique, accessible, and unified experience throughout Android devices.Now, Samsung's Voice Assistant and Google's TalkBack are merged into one unified screen reader. With both Voice Assistant & TalkBack's unique identities in control, you now have a much more convenient and effective screen reader across all of your Android devices.Experience the new TalkBack provided by One UI 3.0.

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13/04/21

This could have been a valuable resource as I have been looking for graphs indicating performance history within Pull&Bear, however this representative of Inditex as a whole, and I feel as though its is such a large company its would not be comparable for Pull&Bear alone. I was disappointed that Pull&Bear did not have any data published on GlobalData as that would have been very helpful for my PEST - especially the economical aspect.

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Retail Viewpoint: Inditex FY2020:21 for the year ending 31 January 2021 - GlobalData Intelligence Ce

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Retail Viewpoint: Inditex FY2020:21 for the year ending 31 January 2021 - GlobalData Intelligence Ce2

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Our signature touch comes down to natural textures and tested materials. For example, our tri-blend of premium bamboo (66%), cotton (28%) and spandex (6%).

THIS IS THE STUFF BEHIND WHAT WE CALL THE WOW EFFECT.

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Nothing to think about here. Our Mind Over Matter tee features a cool design on comfortable material, making it a must-have item in your closet. Description Each shirt features raised braille accents in puff paint.

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Product Style: T shirts, Regular fit

care wash 40 synthetic
Wash at 40°C delicate

care do not bleach
Do not bleach

care tumble dry medium temp
Tumble dry medium temperature

care iron medium
Iron at medium temperature

care do not dry clean
Do not dry clean

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Pure Cotton Love Slogan Crew Neck T-Shirt | M&S Collection | M&S

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Product Style: T shirts, Regular fit care wash 40 synthetic Wash at 40°C delicate care do not bleach Do not bleach care tumble dry medium temp Tumble dry medium temperature care iron medium Iron at medium temperature care do not dry clean Do not dry clean

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Adaptive Seated Fit Logo T-Shirt | BLUE | Tommy Hilfiger

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Shop the Adaptive Seated Fit Logo T-Shirt in BLUE from Tommy Hilfiger. Sign up to our newsletter and receive 10% off your first order.

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White Monet T-shirt - 100% ecologically grown cotton - pull&bear

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White T-shirt with Claude Monet's "The artist's garden in Giverny" with a round neckline and short sleeves. Made of 100% cotton.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Comfort you can count on for commuting, work, and travel. This is your new favorite everyday jogger. Description Each jogger has the color embroidered in braille below the waist. The raised embroidery allows those with a visual impairment to "read" the color of the pant.

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Women's Lounge & Nightwear | Sleepwear | Tommy Hilfiger® UK

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Elevate your look with the latest Tommy Hilfiger women's loungewear & nightwear. Receive 10% off by signing up to our newsletter.

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Tapered fit, Drawstring fastening, Unlined, Mid rise

Better Cotton Initiative

M&S is proud to invest in making cotton production more sustainable. Better Cotton is sourced through a system of Mass Balance. Find out more

96% cotton, 4% elastane (exclusive of trimmings), Pocketing (pocket fabric composition) - 100% cotton

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Cotton Tapered Ankle Grazer Joggers | M&S Collection | M&S

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Tapered fit, Drawstring fastening, Unlined, Mid rise Better Cotton Initiative M&S is proud to invest in making cotton production more sustainable. Better Cotton is sourced through a system of Mass Balance. Find out more 96% cotton, 4% elastane (exclusive of trimmings), Pocketing (pocket fabric composition) - 100% cotton

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Basic joggers with pockets and an elastic waistband.

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Zip fastening, Lined, Adjustable straps, Outer zipped pocket

Height: 18 cm
Width: 34 cm
Length: 44 cm

Responsibly Sourced Leather; M&S leather products support sustainable manufacturing via the Leather Working Group

100% leather (exclusive of trimmings) , Lining - 100% polyester, Contains non - textile parts of animal origin

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Zip fastening, Lined, Adjustable straps, Outer zipped pocket Height: 18 cmWidth: 34 cmLength: 44 cm Responsibly Sourced Leather; M&S leather products support sustainable manufacturing via the Leather Working Group 100% leather (exclusive of trimmings) , Lining - 100% polyester, Contains non - textile parts of animal origin

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Black urban-style backpack with a front pocket and zip closure, featuring side pockets with magnetic clasp closures, two adjustable shoulder straps and a handle. Height x Length x Width: 40 x 28.5 x 18 cm.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Monogram Backpack | BLACK | Tommy Hilfiger

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Shop the Monogram Backpack in BLACK from Tommy Hilfiger. Sign up to our newsletter and receive 10% off your first order.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Our signature touch comes down to natural textures and tested materials. For example, our tri-blend of premium bamboo (66%), cotton (28%) and spandex (6%).

THIS IS THE STUFF BEHIND WHAT WE CALL THE WOW EFFECT.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
This backpack blends sophisticated style with savvy practicality. It's a beautiful modern bag that every woman can appreciate. Description Our versatile design offers optimal organization and function, while also being effortlessly chic and elegant. "The Sheryl" is great for business or leisure, day or evening, running errands around town, or traveling the globe.

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Matching set
Versatile hoodie

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Wide leg trouser

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https://acorn.caci.co.uk/data/#t36_p1

This took me a while to find the most suitable acorn category but once I found the correct one for me, I felt it provided rich valuable information.

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https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vision-loss/

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https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/understanding-disabilities-and-impairments-user-profiles/saleem-profoundly-deaf-user

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https://www.england.nhs.uk/wheelchair-services/

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https://www.who.int/blindness/publications/globaldata/en/

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Focused on the employment rates between blind people in comparison to the general public.

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1. Other pages in this release

Other commentary from the latest labour market data can be found on the following pages:
Back to table of contents

September to November 2020 estimates show a large increase in the unemployment rate and a record number of redundancies, while the employment rate continues to fall; although decreasing over the year, total hours worked increased from the low levels in the previous quarter.

The UK employment rate was estimated at 75.2%, 1.1 percentage points lower than a year earlier and 0.4 percentage points lower than the previous quarter.

The UK unemployment rate was estimated at 5.0%, 1.2 percentage points higher than a year earlier and 0.6 percentage points higher than the previous quarter.

The UK economic inactivity rate was estimated at 20.7%, 0.2 percentage points higher than a year earlier but 0.1 percentage points lower than the previous quarter.

The total number of weekly hours worked was 979.9 million, down 74.2 million hours on the same period the previous year but up 89.0 million hours compared with the previous quarter.

The redundancy rate reached a record high of 14.2 per thousand.

The data in this bulletin come from the Labour Force Survey, a survey of households. It is not practical to survey every household each quarter, so these statistics are estimates based on a large sample.

Back to table of contents

3. Coronavirus and measuring the labour market

Latest Labour Force Survey (LFS) estimates are based on interviews that took place from the start of September to the end of November 2020. Interviews during September, October and November relate to the period when a number of the government lockdown measures aimed at protecting businesses and jobs during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic were reintroduced.

Because of the coronavirus and the suspension of face-to-face interviewing on 17 March 2020, we had to make operational changes to the Labour Force Survey (LFS), particularly in the way that we contact households for initial interview, which moved to a "by telephone" approach. These changes resulted in a response where certain characteristics have not been as well represented as previously. This is evidenced in a change in the balance of type of household that we are reaching. In particular, the proportion of households where people own their homes in the sample has increased and rented accommodation households has decreased.

To mitigate the impact of this non-response bias, in October 2020, we introduced housing tenure into the LFS weighting methodology for periods from January to March 2020 onwards. While not providing a perfect solution, this redressed some of the issues that had previously been noted in the survey results. More information can be found in Coronavirus and its impact on the Labour Force Survey and in this blog.

The change in weighting methodology resulted in revisions to all LFS estimates published on 13 October 2020 for the periods January to March 2020 through to May to July 2020 and consequently had an impact on recent movements for a number of the published series. More information about the impact of the change in weighting on main LFS indicators published in October 2020 can be found in Dataset X08.

LFS responses are weighted to official population estimates and projections that do not currently reflect the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Labour Force Survey (LFS) is not designed to measure changes in the levels of population or long-term international migration. We are analysing the population totals used in the weighting process and may make adjustments if appropriate. Rates published from the LFS remain robust and reliable, however levels and changes in levels should be used with caution.

Back to table of contents

Employment measures the number of people aged 16 years and over in paid work and those who had a job that they were temporarily away from. The employment rate is the proportion of people aged between 16 and 64 years who are in employment.

The International Labour Organization (ILO) definition of employment includes those who worked in a job for at least one hour and those temporarily absent from a job. Workers furloughed under the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme or who are self-employed but temporarily not in work have a reasonable expectation of returning to their jobs after a temporary period of absence. Therefore, they are classified as employed under the ILO definition.

The estimated employment rate for people aged between 16 and 64 years had generally been increasing since early 2012, largely driven by an increase in the employment rate for women. However, there has been a decrease since December 2019 to February 2020, coinciding with the start of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic (Figure 1).

For people aged between 16 and 64 years, for September to November 2020:

The single-month and weekly estimates of the employment rate suggest that the rate has been largely flat during the three months period.

The increase in the employment rate for women in recent years is partly a result of changes to the State Pension age for women, resulting in fewer women retiring between the ages of 60 and 65 years. However, since the equalisation of the State Pension age, the employment rate for women had continued to rise, though it has now decreased because of the impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Imputation used for the Labour Force Survey (LFS) was not designed to deal with the changes experienced in the labour market in recent months. Experimental work with adjusted methodology suggests the use of the existing methodology has little impact on the employment rate (less than 0.2 percentage points). Further information can be found in the section on Measuring the data.

Estimates for September to November 2020 show 32.50 million people aged 16 years and over in employment, 398,000 fewer than a year earlier. This was the largest annual decrease since December 2009 to February 2010 and was mainly driven by men. However, there was also an annual decrease for women; the first since January to March 2012.

Employment decreased by 88,000 on the quarter. This quarterly decrease was mainly driven by men in employment, the full-time self-employed, part-time employees and people aged between 25 and 64 years of age, but was partly offset by an increase in full-time employees and in people aged between 18 and 24 years of age.

More about economy, business and jobs

Age group

Looking more closely at the change in employment over the quarter by age group (Figure 2), there was a combined decrease of 162,000 on the quarter for those aged 25 to 64 years, to 27.61 million. Meanwhile, the number of people in employment aged between 16 and 24 years increased by 24,000 on the quarter to 3.56 million, the first quarterly increase since January to March 2020 at the beginning of the pandemic. There was also a quarterly increase in employment for those aged 65 years and over, by 50,000 to 1.33 million.

Full-time and part-time employees and self-employed

Looking more closely at the quarterly decrease in employment (Figure 3), this was driven by decreases in the number of full-time self-employed people (down 71,000 to 3.12 million) and part-time employees (down 182,000 to 6.56 million). The latter was driven more by women (down 117,000), but male part-time employees saw the largest quarterly decrease since July to September 2011 (down 65,000).

The quarterly decrease was partly offset by an increase in full-time employees, up by 170,000 on the quarter to a record high of 21.32 million. The increase in full-time employees was mainly driven by women (up 135,000 on the quarter to a record 8.81 million), while men increased by 35,000 to a record 12.52 million.

Employment status on the LFS is self-reported, with people classifying themselves as being either an employee or self-employed. Previous labour market flows estimates show that the recent increases in the number of employees and decreases in the number of self-employed people have been driven, in part, by a movement of people from self-employed to employee status. Of those who move from self-employed to employee status, the number who had changed jobs had not increased from normal levels. Consequently, some of the fall in self-employment comes from an increase in the number of people who have changed to classifying themselves as an employee, even though they have not changed jobs. Additional analysis suggests the drivers of this are self-employed people who previously reported they were sole directors of their own limited business, partners in a business or a professional practice, subcontractors, or those doing freelance work.

Temporarily away from job

From the way the Labour Force Survey (LFS) data are collected, it is possible to separate out responses relating to individual weeks during the survey period. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) has developed a method for weighting the weekly LFS data to produce UK aggregates. The sample for any week is not representative, and the results are more volatile than the quarterly or monthly estimates. As such, their use is to show any large impact of a sudden change in labour market conditions and should not be used as a leading indicator.

The LFS collects information on those temporarily away from paid work that they expect to return to. Of those temporarily away from paid work, we gather a range of data, including whether they are temporarily away from work short-term (less than three months) or long-term (three months or more) and whether those away long-term are earning more or less than half their usual salary.

These experimental weekly Labour Force Survey (LFS) estimates show that before lockdown the estimated number of people temporarily away from work was approximately 2.5 million. These people could be away for a variety of reasons including sickness, maternity or paternity leave, holidays or economic reasons.

There was a large increase, in both March and April 2020, in those stating that they were temporarily away from paid work (Figure 4) with nearly 9 million away from work in the final week of April 2020. The total number of people temporarily away from paid work had been gradually decreasing from these high levels since June 2020. However, between September and November 2020 it has been largely flat, with the total number of people away from work for less than three months increasing slightly and those away from work for three months or more continuing to decrease over this period.

In April 2020, several questions were added to the LFS questionnaire to gather additional information on the situation in the labour market during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. One such question asks whether an employee is still being paid while their job is on hold and/or affected by the coronavirus pandemic; everyone answering this question will be defined as in employment.

Experimental weekly Labour Force Survey (LFS) estimates show approximately half a million employees received no pay while their job was on hold and/or affected by the coronavirus pandemic in April and May 2020. This has decreased and remained largely flat since July 2020, however, it has increased from an average of 210,000 in September and October 2020 to an average of 278,000 in November 2020.

Hours worked

Since estimates began in 1971, up until the introduction of the coronavirus (COVID-19) lockdown measures, total hours worked by women had generally increased, reflecting increases in both the employment rate for women and the UK population. In contrast, total hours worked by men had been relatively stable because of falls in the employment rate for men, and increases in the share of part-time working, roughly offset by population increases.

Workers temporarily absent from a job as a result of the coronavirus pandemic would still be classed as employed, however, they would be employed working no hours. This directly impacted the total actual hours worked in September to November 2020. Since the average actual weekly hours are the average of all in employment, those temporarily absent from a job also impacted on those estimates. Even though lockdown restrictions were reintroduced during the September to November 2020 period, the estimates show an increase for hours worked in comparison with the previous quarter, although the level is still well below pre-coronavirus levels.

Between June to August 2020 and September to November 2020, total actual weekly hours worked in the UK saw an increase of 89.0 million, or 10.0%, to 979.9 million hours (Figure 5). Total hours worked for men saw an increase of 44.2 million, or 8.4%, to 572.1 million hours, and total hours worked for women saw an increase of 44.7 million, or 12.3%, to 407.8 million hours.

Average actual weekly hours worked saw an increase of 2.8 hours on the quarter to 30.1 hours. The average weekly hours worked by men saw an increase of 2.8 hours to 33.7 hours, while women's hours saw an increase of 2.9 hours to 26.2 hours.

Imputation used for the Labour Force Survey was not designed to deal with the changes experienced in the labour market in recent months. Experimental work with adjusted methodology suggests that during the early stages of lockdown we were understating the full extent of the reduction in total hours. However, now that total hours are increasing, this has reversed so that the experimental methodology now suggests the actual number of hours is approximately 2% higher than stated.

Experimental weekly Labour Force Survey (LFS) estimates show a decrease in hours for both employees and the self-employed, with the largest decrease seen for those identifying as self-employed. Since May 2020, we have seen hours for both groups start to increase slowly; by the end of November 2020 the average actual hours worked by employees were almost back in line with the levels seen before the coronavirus pandemic. Self-employed hours have been more volatile than employee hours throughout the lockdown period and, although they have increased since May, in November 2020 they were still well below the levels seen pre-lockdown.
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Unemployment measures people without a job who have been actively seeking work within the last four weeks and are available to start work within the next two weeks. The unemployment rate is not the proportion of the total population who are unemployed. It is the proportion of the economically active population (those in work plus those seeking and available to work) who are unemployed.

Estimated unemployment rates for both men and women aged 16 years and over had generally been falling since late 2013 but have increased over recent periods (Figure 6).

For people aged 16 years and over, for September to November 2020:

The single-month and weekly estimates of the unemployment rate suggest that the rate has increased through September and October 2020, but was fairly flat in November 2020.

Imputation used for the Labour Force Survey (LFS) was not designed to deal with the changes experienced in the labour market in recent months. Experimental work with adjusted methodology suggests the use of the existing methodology has little impact on the unemployment rate (around 0.1 percentage points). Further information can be found in the section on Measuring the data.

For September to November 2020, an estimated 1.72 million people were unemployed, up 418,000 on the same period the previous year and up 202,000 on the quarter. The annual increase was the largest since October to December 2009, with unemployment reaching its highest level since July to September 2015. There were quarterly increases for both men (up 87,000) and women (up a record 116,000) and there were increases across all age groups.

Looking in more detail at the increase in unemployment by age group (Figure 7):

The annual increase in unemployment is mainly driven by those unemployed for up to six months, up 284,000 on the year to 1.09 million (Figure 8). However, those unemployed for over 12 months have also increased by 64,000 on the year, and 54,000 on the quarter, to 357,000.

To estimate duration of unemployment, Labour Force Survey (LFS) respondents are asked how long they have been looking for work. Respondents are unlikely to discount short periods where they were not looking for work from this. Consequently, the quarterly increase in those unemployed for over 12 months is driven, in part, by those that briefly stopped looking for work in the earlier stages of the pandemic (and were therefore classified as economically inactive at that time) as they are likely to return to unemployment duration estimates in longer-term categories.

Figure 9: The largest annual increase in unemployment was for those who were previously employed in accommodation and food services

UK unemployment by industry1 of last job (aged 16 years and over), not seasonally adjusted, September to November 2019 and September to November 2020

Source: Office for National Statistics - Labour Force Survey

Notes:

Industry based on Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) 2007.

Download this chart

Looking at unemployment by industry of last job, there were increases for all industries except the human health and social work activities industry between September to November 2019 and September to November 2020 (Figure 9). The largest increase was for those previously employed in accommodation and food service activities, up 54,000 on the year to 171,000. The second-largest increase was for those previously employed in manufacturing, up 51,000 on the year to 130,000. Other services also increased by 51,000 on the year to 78,000. In September to November 2020, the highest unemployment level across all industries was for those previously employed in wholesale, retail and repair of motor vehicles, at 209,000.

The Claimant Count (Experimental Statistics)

These Claimant Count statistics relate to 10 December 2020. Enhancements to Universal Credit as part of the UK government's response to the coronavirus mean that an increasing number of people became eligible for unemployment-related benefit support, although still employed.

Consequently, changes in the Claimant Count will not be wholly because of changes in the number of people who are unemployed. We are not able to identify to what extent people who are employed or unemployed have affected the numbers.

The Claimant Count is an Experimental Statistic that seeks to measure the number of people claiming benefit principally for the reason of being unemployed.

To achieve this, the Claimant Count has generally been a count of the appropriate benefits within the UK's current benefit regime that best meet that criteria. Currently this is a combination of claimants of Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA) and claimants of Universal Credit (UC) who fall within the UC "searching for work" conditionality.

Those claiming unemployment-related benefits (either UC or JSA) may be wholly unemployed and seeking work, or may be employed but with low income and/or low hours, that make them eligible for unemployment-related benefit support.

Under UC a broader span of claimants became eligible for unemployment-related benefit than under the previous benefit regime. During the roll-out of UC since 2013, movements in the Claimant Count have been significantly affected by this expanding eligibility, rather than labour market conditions. This impact has led to the Claimant Count being reclassified to an Experimental Statistic.

As part of the UK government's response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, a number of enhancements and easements have been made to UC, which impact the statistics. In addition, claimants are accessing UC as a "top-up" to government support packages (such as the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme and Self-Employment Income Support Scheme) to legitimately claim unemployment benefits whilst "furloughed". A proportion of those claimants will be employed under the International Labour Organization (ILO) definition - furloughed, or with low earnings or hours of paid work.

Consequently, while some of any movement in the Claimant Count would be because of changes in the number of people who are out of work, a certain amount of the movement will be because of changes in the number of people in work who are eligible for UC as part of the government response. We are not able to identify to what extent these two factors have affected the numbers.

The Claimant Count increased slightly in December 2020 to 2.6 million (Figure 10). This represents a monthly increase of 0.3% and an increase of 113.2%, or 1.4 million, since March 2020.
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Economic inactivity measures people without a job but who are not classed as unemployed because they have not been actively seeking work within the last four weeks and/or they are unable to start work within the next two weeks. Our headline measure of economic inactivity is for those aged between 16 and 64 years.

Since comparable records began in 1971, the economic inactivity rate for all people aged between 16 and 64 years has generally been falling (although it increased during recessions). This is because of a gradual fall in the economic inactivity rate for women. This fall reflects changes to the State Pension age, resulting in fewer women retiring between the ages of 60 and 65 years, as well as more women in younger age groups participating in the labour market. Over recent years, the economic inactivity rate for men has been relatively flat (Figure 11).

For people aged between 16 and 64 years, for September to November 2020:

Estimates for September to November 2020 show 8.59 million people aged between 16 and 64 years not in the labour force (economically inactive). This was 87,000 more than a year earlier but 33,000 less than the previous quarter. The annual increase was the largest since March to May 2015 and was driven by men (up 187,000), but partially offset by a decrease for women (down 100,000 to a record low of 5.08 million).

Imputation used for the Labour Force Survey was not designed to deal with the changes experienced in the labour market in recent months. Experimental work with adjusted imputation methodology suggests the use of the existing methodology has little impact on the economic inactivity rate (around 0.1 percentage points). Further information can be found in the section on Measuring the data.

Figure 12: The annual increase for people who are economically inactive is largely driven by people who are inactive because of 'other' reasons and by those who are long-term sick

Economically inactive people by reason in the UK (aged 16 to 64 years), seasonally adjusted, September to November 2015 to September to November 2020

Source: Office for National Statistics - Labour Force Survey

Notes:

1. Discouraged workers are those who are not looking for work because they believe no jobs are available

2. Other reasons for being economically inactive include those who are waiting for the results of a job application; have not yet started looking for work; do not need or want employment; have given an uncategorised reason for being economically inactive; or have not given a reason for being economically inactive.

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In terms of reasons for economic inactivity (Figure 12), the annual increase was largely driven by those who are long-term sick, up 99,000 on the year to 2.16 million, and those who are inactive because of "other" reasons, up 188,000 on the year to 1.13 million. There was also a record annual increase of 43,000 (to 73,000) for discouraged workers (those who are not looking for work because they believe no jobs are available). The annual increase was offset somewhat by the large decrease in people who were economically inactive because of looking after family or home (down 294,000 on the year to 1.64 million).

The small quarterly decrease in economic inactivity was driven by a decrease in those who want a job, down 63,000 on the quarter to 1.93 million.
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The redundancy estimates measure the number of people who were made redundant or who took voluntary redundancy in the three months before the Labour Force Survey interviews; it does not take into consideration planned redundancies. So, in this release, the latest estimates may relate to redundancies over the period from the beginning of July to the end of November 2020.

Reports of redundancy in the three months prior to interview increased in September to November 2020 by a record 10.0 per thousand on the year, and 6.0 per thousand on the quarter, to a record high of 14.2 per thousand (Figure 13).

Experimental weekly Labour Force Survey (LFS) estimates show that the number of people reporting redundancy in the three months prior to interview has been increasing since June 2020 and remains high in November 2020 but has dropped from the peak in September (Figure 14).

Figure 15: The redundancy rate was highest for those aged 25 to 34 years

Redundancy rate¹ by age, people aged 16 and over (not seasonally adjusted), September to November 2019 and September to November 2020

Source: Office for National Statistics - Labour Force Survey

Notes:

The redundancy rate is the ratio of the redundancy level for the given quarter to the number of employees in the previous quarter, multiplied by 1,000.

Download this chart

The redundancy rate increased for all age groups (Figure 15). Those aged 25 to 34 years had the highest redundancy rate, of 16.2 per thousand (compared with 3.1 per thousand a year earlier), and those aged 35 to 49 years had the lowest redundancy rate, of 12.8 per thousand (compared with 4.0 per thousand a year earlier).
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Actual and usual hours worked

Statistics for usual hours worked measure how many hours people usually work per week. Compared with actual hours worked, they are not affected by absences and so can provide a better measure of normal working patterns. For example, a person who usually works 37 hours a week but who was on holiday for a week would be recorded as working zero actual hours for that week, while usual hours would be recorded as 37 hours.

Economic inactivity

People not in the labour force (also known as economically inactive) are not in employment but do not meet the internationally accepted definition of unemployment because they have not been seeking work within the last four weeks and/or are unable to start work in the next two weeks. The economic inactivity rate is the proportion of people aged between 16 and 64 years who are not in the labour force.

Employment

Employment measures the number of people in paid work or who had a job that they were temporarily away from (for example, because they were on holiday or off sick). This differs from the number of jobs because some people have more than one job. The employment rate is the proportion of people aged between 16 and 64 years who are in employment. A more detailed explanation is available in our guide to labour market statistics.

Unemployment

Unemployment measures people without a job who have been actively seeking work within the last four weeks and are available to start work within the next two weeks. The unemployment rate is not the proportion of the total population who are unemployed. It is the proportion of the economically active population (that is, those in work plus those seeking and available to work) who are unemployed.

A more detailed glossary is available.
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This bulletin relies on data collected from the Labour Force Survey (LFS), the largest household survey in the UK.

More quality and methodology information on strengths, limitations, appropriate uses, and how the data were created is available in the LFS QMI.

The LFS performance and quality monitoring reports provide data on response rates and other quality-related issues for the LFS.

Coronavirus

For more information on how labour market data sources are affected by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, see the article published on 6 May 2020, which details some of the challenges that we have faced in producing estimates at this time.

An article published on 11 December 2020 compares our labour market data sources and discusses some of the main differences.

Our latest data and analysis on the impact of the coronavirus on the UK economy and population are available on our dedicated coronavirus web page. This is the hub for all special coronavirus-related publications, drawing on all available data. In response to the developing coronavirus pandemic, we are working to ensure that we continue to publish economic statistics. For more information, please see COVID-19 and the production of statistics.

LFS responses are weighted to official population estimates and projections that do not currently reflect the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Labour Force Survey (LFS) is not designed to measure changes in the levels of population or long-term international migration. We are analysing the population totals used in the weighting process and may make adjustments if appropriate. Rates published from the LFS remain robust and reliable, however levels and changes in levels should be used with caution.

Impact of the coronavirus on data collection

The LFS design is based on interviewing households over five consecutive quarters. Generally, the first of these interviews, called Wave 1, takes place face-to-face, with most subsequent interviews, for Waves 2 to 5, conducted by telephone.

During March, we stopped conducting face-to-face interviews, instead switching to using telephone interviewing exclusively for all waves. This initially caused a significant drop in response.

New measures have been introduced to improve this, which have increased sample sizes, although they are still below normal LFS sample sizes.

Impact of the coronavirus on survey imputation methodology

The normal imputation for non-response to the LFS relies on rolling forward previous responses. Although this method is adequate under normal circumstances, it is not designed to deal with the changes experienced in the labour market in recent months. A new experimental imputation methodology has been researched to improve the measurement of the labour market at this time.

Because of time and system constraints, it has not been possible to fully integrate this methodology into the results within this release, but early indications suggest that:

there is little impact from the use of existing methodology on the headline measures of employment, unemployment and economic inactivity (less than 0.2 percentage points)

measures relating to total hours in this release understate the increase in the actual number of hours worked by approximately 2%

We hope to include more information in later releases as this work develops.

Impact of the coronavirus on survey weighting methodology

Because of the impact on data collection, different weeks throughout the quarter have different achieved sample sizes. To mitigate this impact on estimates the weighting methodology was enhanced to include weekly calibration to ensure that samples from each week had roughly equal representation within the overall three-month estimate. This meant that any impacts seen from changes in the labour market in those weeks would be fully represented within the estimates.

Because of the suspension of face-to-face interviewing in March 2020, we had to make operational changes to the LFS, particularly in the way that we contact households for initial interview, which moved to a "by telephone" approach. These changes have resulted in a response where certain characteristics have not been as well represented as previously. This is evidenced in a change in the balance of type of household that we are reaching. In particular, the proportion of households where people own their homes in the sample has increased and rented accommodation households has decreased.

To mitigate the impact of this non-response bias we have introduced housing tenure into the LFS weighting methodology for periods from January to March 2020 onwards. While not providing a perfect solution, this has redressed some of the issues that had previously been noted in the survey results. More information can be found in an article Coronavirus and its impact on the Labour Force Survey.

Impact of government measures to protect businesses on the Labour Force Survey estimates

During late March, the government announced a number of measures to protect UK businesses. This included the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS), also referred to as furloughing, and the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS).

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) classifies people within the labour market in line with International Labour Organization (ILO) definitions. Under the ILO definition, employment includes employed persons "at work", that is, those who worked in a job for at least one hour; and employed persons "not in work" because of temporary absence from a job, or a change to working time arrangements.

Under the current schemes it is likely that workers would have an expectation of returning to that job and would consider the absence from work as temporary. Therefore, those people absent from work under the current schemes would generally be classified as employed under ILO definitions.

In many cases, however, they would be employed but not in work. This absence would have an impact on the total hours worked. This would also be reflected in the average actual hours worked, which are based on the average hours per person employed, rather than the average hours per person at work. While actual hours would be significantly affected, there is unlikely to be any impact on usual hours, which would reflect normal working patterns.

End of EU exit transition period

As the transition period ends and the UK enters into a new Trade and Cooperation Agreement with the EU, the UK statistical system will continue to produce and publish our wide range of economic and social statistics and analysis. We are committed to continued alignment with the highest international statistical standards, enabling comparability both over time and internationally, and ensuring the general public, statistical users and decision makers have the data they need to be informed.

As the shape of the UK's future statistical relationship with the EU becomes clearer over the coming period, the ONS is making preparations to assume responsibilities that as part of our membership of the EU, and during the transition period, were delegated to the statistical office of the EU, Eurostat. This includes responsibilities relating to international comparability of economic statistics, deciding what international statistical guidance to apply in the UK context and to provide further scrutiny of our statistics and sector classification decisions.

In applying international statistical standards and best practice to UK economic statistics, we will draw on the technical advice of experts in the UK and internationally, and our work will be underpinned by the UK's well-established and robust framework for independent official statistics, set out in the Statistics and Registration Service Act 2007. Further information on our proposals will be made available early this year.

We will continue to produce our labour market statistics in line with the UK Statistics Authority's Code of Practice for Statistics and in accordance with International Labour Organization (ILO) definitions and agreed international statistical guidance.
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11. Strengths and limitations

Uncertainty in these data

The estimates presented in this bulletin contain uncertainty.

The figures in this bulletin come from the Labour Force Survey (LFS), which gathers information from a sample of households across the UK rather than from the whole population. The sample is designed to be as accurate as possible given practical limitations such as time and cost constraints. Results from sample surveys are always estimates, not precise figures. This can have an impact on how changes in the estimates should be interpreted, especially for short-term comparisons.

As the number of people available in the sample gets smaller, the variability of the estimates that we can make from that sample size gets larger. Estimates for small groups (for example, unemployed people aged between 16 and 17 years), which are based on small subsets of the LFS sample, are less reliable and tend to be more volatile than for larger aggregated groups (for example, the total number of unemployed people).

In general, changes in the numbers (and especially the rates) reported in this bulletin between three-month periods are small and are not usually greater than the level that can be explained by sampling variability. Short-term movements in reported rates should be considered alongside longer-term patterns in the series and corresponding movements in other sources to give a fuller picture.

Comparability

The data in this bulletin follow internationally accepted definitions specified by the International Labour Organization (ILO). This ensures that the estimates for the UK are comparable with those for other countries.

An annual reconciliation report of job estimates is published every March comparing the latest workforce jobs (WFJ) estimates with the equivalent estimates of jobs from the Labour Force Survey (LFS).

The concept of employment (measured by the LFS as the number of people in work) differs from the concept of jobs, since a person can have more than one job and some jobs may be shared by more than one person. The LFS, which collects information mainly from residents of private households, is the preferred source of statistics on employment. The WFJ series, which is compiled mainly from surveys of businesses, is the preferred source of statistics on jobs by industry, since it provides a more reliable industry breakdown than the LFS. During the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, the LFS and WFJ series may have additional differences because a person's perception of their attachment to a job may differ from the business's perception of that job. It is also important to note that the LFS is based on interviews throughout the coverage period, whereas the WFJ series relates to a specific date. This difference can be significant in a labour market that is experiencing rapid changes.

Further information is available in A guide to labour market statistics.
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Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Latest data and analysis on coronavirus (COVID-19) in the UK and its effect on the economy and society. Includes recent articles on coronavirus and self-employment in the UK, coronavirus and employment for parents in the UK, and coronavirus and employment for those aged 70 years and over in the UK.

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Employment in the UK - Office for National Statistics

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1. Other pages in this release Other commentary from the latest labour market data can be found on the following pages: Back to table of contents September to November 2020 estimates show a large increase in the unemployment rate and a record number of redundancies, while the employment rate continues to fall; although decreasing over the year, total hours worked increased from the low levels in the previous quarter.

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Information about supplier clusters and join life

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Suppliers - About Join Life - Join Life - Woman - PULL&BEAR United States

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Pros and cons of sourcing in Vietnam

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Trump has recently increased the Tariffs for certain products entering the United States from China, causing quite a stir among the bulk of US marketplace sellers. For this reason, it's a good opportunity to consider sourcing Amazon products from countries other than China.

Many sellers have been impacted through these changes. Predominantly, those selling in high volumes with minimal margins are most affected. PPC budgets have commonly required scaling back in order to remain in a profitable position.

Most FBA sellers have opted to raise prices accordingly (and suffer from lower throughput) whilst some have quit Amazon entirely. Certainly the race-to-the-bottom game is now harder more than ever before.

You can weather this storm by adapting to changing times. Consider sourcing for your Amazon business from outside of China, using this guide as a reference.

Contents

We'll be examining each country and why we think they could be a good fit for your Amazon business. Currently, 80 to 90% of goods sold on Amazon's US marketplace are sourced from outside of the United States. This is leaving unprecedented opportunity on the table for those willing to be creative and source from outside of China.

Countries to source from

Let's examine firstly the countries to source from. After all, we can imagine that 70% of readers simply want this list.

Chances are you're also curious on how to find such Non-Chinese suppliers online, and we'll have this discussed in a later chapter.

This may not come as a surprise to you, but at the same time, you may not be aware that India shares many characteristics with China. They manufacture high quality goods, yet lack in the packaging and customer service aspects.

Like China, India runs dozens of international trade shows on a rotating calendar basis. Clothing, textiles, metal goods and jewellery are best found across India.

We know - you're probably thinking this is just another China. But it isn't! Unit pricing from Taiwan is cheaper, sometimes by up to 50%.

Some sellers source from Taiwan already, though at the same time, Taiwan's product quality is known to be average.

Indonesian isn't a high volume exporter, but they do make some very unique products that are seldomly found in other countries. Trade fairs are also a regular occurrence.

Australians, for example, absolutely love Balinese gifts. Those looking at spiritual goods, bamboo products and animal statues will find some opportunity here.

Vietnam isn't often regarded as a strong alternative to China for Amazon sellers, yet you may discover minimal competition for unique goods. Apparel, tea and animal products can be found here.

Further still, electronics are one of Vietnam's largest exports. Yet, even with Trump's war on China, most sellers will still find good profits and greater product reliability through Chinese electronic suppliers.

Sourcing from China and waiting 6 to 8 weeks for inventory to arrive is not only stressful if you're waiting on inventory, but the 'lag time' means that your money isn't turning over for you. That is, you aren't earning any ROI whilst products are on the boat.

Mexico, however, provides logistical advantages, despite costing slightly higher in freight charges. Your product, even with land freight, could be live and selling within a week or two from factory dispatch. Plastics, gems, precious metals and medical devices can be found here, with some bi-lingual sellers having language advantages too.

There are some Amazon sellers absolutely crushing it right now on 'Made in Japan' products on FBA. You will certainly have a high unit cost price, therefore, this isn't beginner territory. There's simply a perceived higher value placed on Japanese goods, especially in the homewares department.

Following China, our next recommendation for sellers in the electronics space is Japan. This country manufactures for some of the biggest computing and camera brands, yet individual sellers are likely to find unique products that aren't available in China.

We left the best until last! Sourcing in the United States is not only easier, it's exactly what Trump would love you to do. Even if you're not a Trump supporter (Bindwise is totally cool with all political viewpoints!), you'll be supporting local employment and enjoy the 'Made in USA' sticker proudly placed on your locally produced inventory.

Sourcing locally can also create a higher perceived brand value, both towards the customer and potential business buyers. As more buyers are waking up to the 'cheap junket' that is Amazon at times, they're looking at the quality offerings, and are happy to pay a slight premium, especially if it's home-grown.

Limitations of specific countries

Before you rush off towards discovering suppliers in each of these noted countries, it's wise to step back and evaluate. Each has its limitations, and some simply don't export a great deal.

Remember: China still manufactures for the bulk of the world's goods, and we don't see that slowing down too much in the short term. That is, despite Trump's endless display of power.

1. Language barrier. There are some countries where a language barrier is certainly present, especially in Vietnam and Japan. English certainly isn't so widely spoken. You may be used to challenges in translation with the Chinese, but further challenges may be present in these other countries. Hiring a translator is a recommendation, at least in the beginning stages.

2. Quality issues. When compared to China, some of these countries noted just up to the standard you might expect. China has really advanced product offerings in the last 20 years. So much so that even luxury brands are now manufacturing in China. These alternative countries, in most cases, haven't really caught up.

3. Transit times. China exports such a high volume that your goods can arrive in 6 to 8 weeks, with dozens of ships setting sail every single day. Some of these countries listed may actually take long to reach the US, and potentially cost more as well. It's worth inquiring with your freight forwarder pertaining to the cost and transit time before placing your order.

4. Bribery issues. In places some places bribery is so widespread that in some places, it's simply part of the culture. Unlike China where 3rd party inspectors such as V-Trust can audit your goods, it's questionable as to whether this reputation can be upheld in other countries. Some factories may even deflect quite obvious product faults in production.

Please don't let these limitations turn you instantly off sourcing Amazon products outside of China. In fact, all these issues can indeed be found inside China too.

Discovering 13+ Non-Chinese suppliers

Great - so you've gone through the list of all the other countries you could instead source from and still turn a profit in your Amazon business. Plus - you've acknowledged that some unique challenges might be present.

Now you're curious towards how to find such suppliers.

The great news is that, just like Alibaba, a lot of suppliers from these noted countries can be found online. In fact, we're going to share 7 websites that you'll find key suppliers on.

Furthermore, we would also recommend trade fairs. Whilst the Canton Fair is the world's largest, it's also visited by thousands of Amazon sellers each season. That is, if your competition is there, then high consider attending fairs in other countries whereby you're unlikely to bump into other sellers.

We can recommend www.10times.com for discovering trade fairs in these countries. Following the Canton Fair, the 3 of the largest trade fairs in the world are:

Chandigarh Mega Expo (India)

East China Fair (Guangzhou)

ASD Market Week (USA)

Whilst there are certainly larger industrial/commercial trade fairs, these 3 are more suitable for Amazon sellers who sell direct to consumers.

Final sourcing considerations

When deciding to remain with China or source Amazon products in other countries such as India and Vietnam, it's wise to consider the Cost / Benefit ratio. Will I get more value (through increased profits and greater quality) through sourcing in other countries?

For those that source in the United States, that's sometimes a yes. Especially after the increase on Tariffs. The consumer is also becoming more conscious of the product supply chain.

Essentially, what we're questioning is that, will it be worth it? That's down to you and your research. Most sellers, we imagine, will likely still stick with China. Especially those on a lower budget.

This ignorance of other countries does present a lower competition opportunity, especially for those prepared to research. One thing is guaranteed - Amazon continues to be a goldmine.

Now where opportunities lay, so do the sharks. Consider protecting your account now with Bindwise, and join the thousands of FBA sellers who can sleep peacefully at night.

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13+ Websites to Find the non-Chinese Overseas Supplier For Amazon FBA

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Trump has recently increased the Tariffs for certain products entering the United States from China, causing quite a stir among the bulk of US marketplace sellers. For this reason, it's a good opportunity to consider sourcing Amazon products from countries other than China. Many sellers have been impacted through these

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Pros and cons of sourcing in Vietnam

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Vietnam is the best Alternative to China for Product Manufacturing. Are you interested to see how sourcing products from Vietnam compare to China? Do you want to know the pros and cons of sourcing products from Vietnam? Curious as to how a sourcing company in Vietnam works? We made this guide to help you out!

Sourcing products is a very complex task, and adding the variable of a second country makes it even more complicated. Despite the difficulties, there are many reasons to look at Vietnam to source your products instead of China. China is a maturing market for industrialization and manufacturing, while Vietnam is rapidly growing its manufacturing base. As a result, Vietnam is the 3rd fastest growing economy globally and is expected to keep growing for over a decade! When I compare the two countries, I try to think of China as a giant mature corporate behemoth and Vietnam as a small but promising and rapidly growing start-up. In this guide, we'll go through the reason for whether it's better to source from China or Vietnam for your next product.

Generally, there are three ways to view sourcing from Vietnam:

1. A primary sourcing Destination

2. A secondary or backup destination

3. As a complementary destination, such as a China + Vietnam dual sourcing strategy

In this guide, we'll go over what each of these means. There is no one right approach for everyone, so you must keep your product or existing supply chain in mind as you read. This guide also focuses on the benefits of Vietnam over China when Vietnam competes with many other countries, including the rest of the ASEAN countries and India. It is a little simplistic to turn to source into a two-country comparison; regardless, comparing China and Vietnam is an excellent place to start giving some perspective and scale.

Cosmo offers services to sources from Vietnam no matter how you view it, in case you're looking. Whether you are looking at just Vietnam, want to compare or move your existing supply chain from China or have a robust, dual-sourcing strategy from 2 countries, Cosmo can help you out. If you are unsure if your product can be made, check out our guide on what can be made in Vietnam here, https://www.cosmosourcing.com/blog/sourcing-fba-products-in-vietnam. In this guide, we'll go through what all three of these ways to view Vietnam mean.

While Vietnam's manufacturing capacity can stand independently, most people focus on China's sourcing products first. It's understandable, given that China is the manufacturing epicenter of the world and can function as a one-stop-shop. Anytime Vietnam manufacturing comes up, it inevitably gets compared to China, which is understandable as China is currently at the top. Despite China's dominance, Vietnam punches above its weight and has several advantages over China.

By the numbers!

Numbers can only tell so much, but several items show Vietnam can outperform China for its size; for instance, Vietnam, despite being 1/15 the size of China, produces 1/10 the total amount of China's exports.

Pros

Young skilled labor force

Vietnam has one of the youngest labor forces globally, but they are very capable of performing complex manufacturing tasks. For example, Vietnam's labor force includes high-level technical assembly, semiconductor fabrication, and smartphone assembly. On average, the labor cost is half what it is in China. Also, Vietnam's labor force is seven years younger than in China, and even though Vietnam has a population of 90 million, 54 million are between the ages of 18 and 60. Therefore, they can participate in the labor force.

Fewer restrictions and more free trade

While China sees more and more restrictions and regulations against its manufacturing sector, Vietnam's government is extremely proactive in pursuing free trade agreements worldwide. Vietnam has trade agreements soon to be completed, with the EU (including non-full EU members Norway, Iceland, and Switzerland), South Korea, and All of Southeast Asia, via ASEAN, Russia, and more. They are actively negotiating a revival of the TPP (without the US) and already have a Bilateral trade agreement that stops short of being full free trade) with the US. The Trade and Investment Framework Agreement was signed by the US and Vietnam in 2007 and has been in effect.

Smaller Bureaucracy

Vietnam, compared to China, has a smaller bureaucracy and fewer restrictions on foreign direct investment. Vietnam has removed all restrictions on foreign ownership of production and manufacturing facilities for several industries. Further, Vietnam has relaxed restrictions and rules on foreign ownership and investment in hundreds of industries. If you are at the scale that you are considering setting up and owning your manufacturing capabilities, then Vietnam is much, much more attractive than China. Having experienced Vietnam and China, I have often felt pushback from China when trying to source and do business, while in Vietnam, I feel much more welcomed.

Cons

Logistics and Infrastructure

Vietnam has a decent logistics and infrastructure network but it is not world-class. Vietnam has one of the world's better systems, but it is not world-class and falls very short of China, which is widely considered the best in the world. If Vietnam wants to take its industrial growth to the next level, they need to invest in new roads, Freight Rail, a cheaper electrical grid, new ports, and more. Unfortunately, in many cases, despite a lower cost from the factory in Vietnam, it is still cheaper to buy from China due to the lower transportation cost.

Selection

Another downside of Vietnam is that you can't get everything you want from here. The limited selection is because Vietnam, unlike China, is limited in what it can produce. However, to be fair to Vietnam, most of what it can produce is very often cheaper or higher quality than what can be found in China, and with some industries like clothing, it's both cheaper and higher quality. So, if you wonder what can be made in Vietnam, We made a guide for you [Link coming soon!]

Scalability

Not only can your item be found in China, but you can also order it in almost any quantity. In Vietnam, the MOQ is often higher than in China, and they are not as flexible. It's a common practice when sourcing a new product to make a small order to test the market and then make a larger order when you are ready to commit. While it's still possible to do that in Vietnam, it's not as easy as in China. For example, I had a client that needed 2,000 custom-designed shirts made, so I contacted several factories that could make shirts. Many factories could make millions of T-shirts yearly and supplied significant retailers like H&M and Uniqlo. However, while they could handle that volume, they couldn't shift production to handle a smaller order.

Pros

One-stop shop

China is still a one-stop shop when it comes to finding a manufacturer. If it can be made, it can be made in China. No other country anywhere in the world can offer this. When I source from Vietnam, the first question I ask is, "can it be made here?', but when I source from China, the first question is, "what price can I buy it?" Even for products that can be made in Vietnam, the factories are often not designed to handle different scales. In China, smaller buyers can make a small purchase to test a product idea and expand to almost any size.

Access to raw materials

China also has better access to raw materials despite China's lack of natural resources. This is because China's Government and Chinese businesses are very aggressive in going to the source and buying the needed raw materials. A notable example is China controlling 90% of the rare earth metals essential in modern electronics. As a result, by and large, factories have their back-end supply chain figured out, so we only need to talk to the end manufacturer as a sourcing company.

When sourcing from Vietnam (and anywhere outside of China), it's not uncommon to find both manufacturers who can make the finished good and a supplier of the materials. In some cases, this can be good as you have full accountability in the supply chain and control over what is used. For instance, we recently sourced high-end Italian wool for some apparel in Vietnam, while in China, you have to take the factory at their word on the material they use or hire a third-party inspection service.

Infrastructure

China also has better infrastructure than Vietnam. That's not to say that the infrastructure in Vietnam is bad, it's pretty decent, actually, but China has invested trillions of dollars in creating possibly the best infrastructure in the world. Even though they have the largest ports in the world, they are incredibly efficient. China has a freight rail network that connects the entire country and over twice as much high-speed rail as the rest of the world combined. And even if it does come from terribly polluting coal plants, the electricity is cheap. China's infrastructure and logistics network are so good that the transportation cost savings make up for the higher labor cost in many cases.

Cons

Difficult Bureaucracy and regulations

To say China has a massive, complex, and ever-changing set of rules and regulations is an understatement. China's bureaucracy is massive, and navigating it can sometimes feel like living in a Kafka novel. On top of its size and complexity, China chooses which laws to enforce almost randomly. While it's simple to set up short-term relationships and projects, it gets exponentially more difficult the more you wish to expand. It can be a nightmare if you get to the level of setting up your manufacturing. Foreign ownership, while possible, is challenging and can take years. China almost forces Joint Ventures with Chinese partners that may or may not be reliable.

Tariffs are only going to get worse.

Tariffs have already hit $50 Billion worth of goods in China, and the current administration seems intent to follow through with another $200 billion soon. Even beyond the United States, other countries are looking to restrict the outflow of trade to bolster their competitive advantages. On the opposite end are countries like Vietnam actively pursuing and signing free trade deals instead of getting hit with Tariffs.

Raising Cost

Beyond Tariffs, prices of goods exported from China have been increasing little by little each year. The rising cost in China is because of a few overall positive trends in China, such as raising wages and stricter environmental regulations. Nonetheless, China has slowly moved away from the "Cheap" manufacturing base.

Counterfeiting and trust

My clients' biggest concern when sourcing from China is having their items getting ripped off or counterfeited. For years, China has been notorious for stealing designs, ignoring patents, and sometimes cloning entire businesses. For FBA clients, it's not unheard of for a Chinese-based supplier to figure out where the product is being sold and hijack a listing. Therefore, it would be best if you went above and beyond to ensure that you have protections in places such as hiring a sourcing company that makes NDA's mandatory in all contracts and forbids both its employees and the factories it works with from selling even unrelated products online.

Corner cutting

'Chabuduo' is a Chinese word that roughly translates as "close enough," The concept is all too prevalent in Chinese manufacturing. When you source products, you must be extremely vigilant and ensure that the product isn't made cheaper than expected and cut corners. It's all common that suppliers will only do what is necessary, and not one bit more, to make your product. There are many ways this concept manifests itself in an end product. For instance, you may get a sample made of one material and the final product made of another or have internal components that are not what they should be. If you want to make sure that your product is legit and up to your standards, it may be in your best interest to hire a sourcing company to help you out.

Many people are already sourcing from China, but many people are starting to look elsewhere for suppliers with major changes going on. It's common for larger companies to audit their supply chain and find backup suppliers to adapt to market changes quickly. A robust supply chain is essential for companies that want to ensure they can deliver the best customer service.

Regarding robustness, the best way to protect yourself from as much risk as possible is to diversify your supply chain as much as possible. Having backup suppliers in Vietnam isn't something only large companies can do; it's becoming much more common with companies of all sizes, including smaller companies. Having suppliers in China and Vietnam allows them to have the absolute best supplier possible and move quickly to keep their supply chain moving.

The best way to accomplish this is to figure out your current China-based supply chain to replicate it as closely as possible in Vietnam. Once you find similar or suitable suppliers, get quotes and make a full and detailed list of suitable suppliers. You must update this list regularly to maximize your supply chain's robustness. If you are interested in this service, this is something that Cosmo can do for you. Cosmo has been helping clients find suppliers in Vietnam since 2014.

Many buyers and companies do not like to put all their eggs in one basket. As a result, many multinationals and larger volume FBA sellers have adopted a China + Vietnam Strategy. By sourcing and buying the same or similar products from both China and Vietnam simultaneously, you can take advantage of the best features of both countries and hedge your bets against any major changes in one country. Furthermore, with recent tariffs slapped against China, FBA buyers and major companies that use this policy could quickly shift production to Vietnam without any noticeable impact on their sales or supply chain.

The China + Vietnam Sourcing strategy started with the clothing and footwear industries, which have been used for years. However, the dual sourcing strategy is expanding quickly to several other industries. Even if you are already buying or manufacturing in China and do not plan to move, it is still valuable to assess the Vietnamese landscape to determine if you can do better here. Having a list of Vietnam suppliers can also give you a backup plan if things suddenly change in China. A company needs to be robust and have redundant operations strategies to ensure the best service for its customers.

Please email us at info@cosmosourcing.com

If you are interested in sourcing from Vietnam, feel free to reach out to the team at Cosmo Sourcing; we have been helping clients source from Vietnam since 2014. Cosmo Sourcing has the skills and the team to find you the best supplier possible. We are also established in China and are among the only companies that can find suppliers in China and Vietnam and pick the one you think is best.

Our services allow you to access new manufacturers that you would not be able to in China and avoid Tariffs. Our services are designed to do everything to take your idea, turn it into a product, and ship it to the final destination. Cosmo can do everything from creating a product spec sheet, validation, sourcing, ordering and evaluating samples, arranging inspections, finding freight forwarders, quality assurance, negotiations, and shipping. We aim to handle every single step of your business in Vietnam for you.

If you start a new business, finding products and suppliers for your products is one of many things, you need to handle. Our services are designed to handle every part of your business in China and Vietnam, so you can focus on the rest of growing your own business.

We have helped clients from Fortune 500 companies, brick-and-mortar stores, FBA sellers, and brand-new businesses. So don't hesitate to contact us and let us know how we can help you.

Vietnam is the best Alternative to China for Product Manufacturing. Are you interested to see how sourcing products from Vietnam compare to China? Do you want to know the pros and cons of sourcing products from Vietnam? Curious as to how a sourcing company in Vietnam works? We made this guide to help you out!

Sourcing products is a very complex task, and adding the variable of a second country makes it even more complicated. Despite the difficulties, there are many reasons to look at Vietnam to source your products instead of China. China is a maturing market for industrialization and manufacturing, while Vietnam is rapidly growing its manufacturing base. As a result, Vietnam is the 3rd fastest growing economy globally and is expected to keep growing for over a decade! When I compare the two countries, I try to think of China as a giant mature corporate behemoth and Vietnam as a small but promising and rapidly growing start-up. In this guide, we'll go through the reason for whether it's better to source from China or Vietnam for your next product.

Generally, there are three ways to view sourcing from Vietnam:

1. A primary sourcing Destination

2. A secondary or backup destination

3. As a complementary destination, such as a China + Vietnam dual sourcing strategy

In this guide, we'll go over what each of these means. There is no one right approach for everyone, so you must keep your product or existing supply chain in mind as you read. This guide also focuses on the benefits of Vietnam over China when Vietnam competes with many other countries, including the rest of the ASEAN countries and India. It is a little simplistic to turn to source into a two-country comparison; regardless, comparing China and Vietnam is an excellent place to start giving some perspective and scale.

Cosmo offers services to sources from Vietnam no matter how you view it, in case you're looking. Whether you are looking at just Vietnam, want to compare or move your existing supply chain from China or have a robust, dual-sourcing strategy from 2 countries, Cosmo can help you out. If you are unsure if your product can be made, check out our guide on what can be made in Vietnam here, https://www.cosmosourcing.com/blog/sourcing-fba-products-in-vietnam. In this guide, we'll go through what all three of these ways to view Vietnam mean.

While Vietnam's manufacturing capacity can stand independently, most people focus on China's sourcing products first. It's understandable, given that China is the manufacturing epicenter of the world and can function as a one-stop-shop. Anytime Vietnam manufacturing comes up, it inevitably gets compared to China, which is understandable as China is currently at the top. Despite China's dominance, Vietnam punches above its weight and has several advantages over China.

By the numbers!

Numbers can only tell so much, but several items show Vietnam can outperform China for its size; for instance, Vietnam, despite being 1/15 the size of China, produces 1/10 the total amount of China's exports.

Pros

Young skilled labor force

Vietnam has one of the youngest labor forces globally, but they are very capable of performing complex manufacturing tasks. For example, Vietnam's labor force includes high-level technical assembly, semiconductor fabrication, and smartphone assembly. On average, the labor cost is half what it is in China. Also, Vietnam's labor force is seven years younger than in China, and even though Vietnam has a population of 90 million, 54 million are between the ages of 18 and 60. Therefore, they can participate in the labor force.

Fewer restrictions and more free trade

While China sees more and more restrictions and regulations against its manufacturing sector, Vietnam's government is extremely proactive in pursuing free trade agreements worldwide. Vietnam has trade agreements soon to be completed, with the EU (including non-full EU members Norway, Iceland, and Switzerland), South Korea, and All of Southeast Asia, via ASEAN, Russia, and more. They are actively negotiating a revival of the TPP (without the US) and already have a Bilateral trade agreement that stops short of being full free trade) with the US. The Trade and Investment Framework Agreement was signed by the US and Vietnam in 2007 and has been in effect.

Smaller Bureaucracy

Vietnam, compared to China, has a smaller bureaucracy and fewer restrictions on foreign direct investment. Vietnam has removed all restrictions on foreign ownership of production and manufacturing facilities for several industries. Further, Vietnam has relaxed restrictions and rules on foreign ownership and investment in hundreds of industries. If you are at the scale that you are considering setting up and owning your manufacturing capabilities, then Vietnam is much, much more attractive than China. Having experienced Vietnam and China, I have often felt pushback from China when trying to source and do business, while in Vietnam, I feel much more welcomed.

Cons

Logistics and Infrastructure

Vietnam has a decent logistics and infrastructure network but it is not world-class. Vietnam has one of the world's better systems, but it is not world-class and falls very short of China, which is widely considered the best in the world. If Vietnam wants to take its industrial growth to the next level, they need to invest in new roads, Freight Rail, a cheaper electrical grid, new ports, and more. Unfortunately, in many cases, despite a lower cost from the factory in Vietnam, it is still cheaper to buy from China due to the lower transportation cost.

Selection

Another downside of Vietnam is that you can't get everything you want from here. The limited selection is because Vietnam, unlike China, is limited in what it can produce. However, to be fair to Vietnam, most of what it can produce is very often cheaper or higher quality than what can be found in China, and with some industries like clothing, it's both cheaper and higher quality. So, if you wonder what can be made in Vietnam, We made a guide for you [Link coming soon!]

Scalability

Not only can your item be found in China, but you can also order it in almost any quantity. In Vietnam, the MOQ is often higher than in China, and they are not as flexible. It's a common practice when sourcing a new product to make a small order to test the market and then make a larger order when you are ready to commit. While it's still possible to do that in Vietnam, it's not as easy as in China. For example, I had a client that needed 2,000 custom-designed shirts made, so I contacted several factories that could make shirts. Many factories could make millions of T-shirts yearly and supplied significant retailers like H&M and Uniqlo. However, while they could handle that volume, they couldn't shift production to handle a smaller order.

Pros

One-stop shop

China is still a one-stop shop when it comes to finding a manufacturer. If it can be made, it can be made in China. No other country anywhere in the world can offer this. When I source from Vietnam, the first question I ask is, "can it be made here?', but when I source from China, the first question is, "what price can I buy it?" Even for products that can be made in Vietnam, the factories are often not designed to handle different scales. In China, smaller buyers can make a small purchase to test a product idea and expand to almost any size.

Access to raw materials

China also has better access to raw materials despite China's lack of natural resources. This is because China's Government and Chinese businesses are very aggressive in going to the source and buying the needed raw materials. A notable example is China controlling 90% of the rare earth metals essential in modern electronics. As a result, by and large, factories have their back-end supply chain figured out, so we only need to talk to the end manufacturer as a sourcing company.

When sourcing from Vietnam (and anywhere outside of China), it's not uncommon to find both manufacturers who can make the finished good and a supplier of the materials. In some cases, this can be good as you have full accountability in the supply chain and control over what is used. For instance, we recently sourced high-end Italian wool for some apparel in Vietnam, while in China, you have to take the factory at their word on the material they use or hire a third-party inspection service.

Infrastructure

China also has better infrastructure than Vietnam. That's not to say that the infrastructure in Vietnam is bad, it's pretty decent, actually, but China has invested trillions of dollars in creating possibly the best infrastructure in the world. Even though they have the largest ports in the world, they are incredibly efficient. China has a freight rail network that connects the entire country and over twice as much high-speed rail as the rest of the world combined. And even if it does come from terribly polluting coal plants, the electricity is cheap. China's infrastructure and logistics network are so good that the transportation cost savings make up for the higher labor cost in many cases.

Cons

Difficult Bureaucracy and regulations

To say China has a massive, complex, and ever-changing set of rules and regulations is an understatement. China's bureaucracy is massive, and navigating it can sometimes feel like living in a Kafka novel. On top of its size and complexity, China chooses which laws to enforce almost randomly. While it's simple to set up short-term relationships and projects, it gets exponentially more difficult the more you wish to expand. It can be a nightmare if you get to the level of setting up your manufacturing. Foreign ownership, while possible, is challenging and can take years. China almost forces Joint Ventures with Chinese partners that may or may not be reliable.

Tariffs are only going to get worse.

Tariffs have already hit $50 Billion worth of goods in China, and the current administration seems intent to follow through with another $200 billion soon. Even beyond the United States, other countries are looking to restrict the outflow of trade to bolster their competitive advantages. On the opposite end are countries like Vietnam actively pursuing and signing free trade deals instead of getting hit with Tariffs.

Raising Cost

Beyond Tariffs, prices of goods exported from China have been increasing little by little each year. The rising cost in China is because of a few overall positive trends in China, such as raising wages and stricter environmental regulations. Nonetheless, China has slowly moved away from the "Cheap" manufacturing base.

Counterfeiting and trust

My clients' biggest concern when sourcing from China is having their items getting ripped off or counterfeited. For years, China has been notorious for stealing designs, ignoring patents, and sometimes cloning entire businesses. For FBA clients, it's not unheard of for a Chinese-based supplier to figure out where the product is being sold and hijack a listing. Therefore, it would be best if you went above and beyond to ensure that you have protections in places such as hiring a sourcing company that makes NDA's mandatory in all contracts and forbids both its employees and the factories it works with from selling even unrelated products online.

Corner cutting

'Chabuduo' is a Chinese word that roughly translates as "close enough," The concept is all too prevalent in Chinese manufacturing. When you source products, you must be extremely vigilant and ensure that the product isn't made cheaper than expected and cut corners. It's all common that suppliers will only do what is necessary, and not one bit more, to make your product. There are many ways this concept manifests itself in an end product. For instance, you may get a sample made of one material and the final product made of another or have internal components that are not what they should be. If you want to make sure that your product is legit and up to your standards, it may be in your best interest to hire a sourcing company to help you out.

Many people are already sourcing from China, but many people are starting to look elsewhere for suppliers with major changes going on. It's common for larger companies to audit their supply chain and find backup suppliers to adapt to market changes quickly. A robust supply chain is essential for companies that want to ensure they can deliver the best customer service.

Regarding robustness, the best way to protect yourself from as much risk as possible is to diversify your supply chain as much as possible. Having backup suppliers in Vietnam isn't something only large companies can do; it's becoming much more common with companies of all sizes, including smaller companies. Having suppliers in China and Vietnam allows them to have the absolute best supplier possible and move quickly to keep their supply chain moving.

The best way to accomplish this is to figure out your current China-based supply chain to replicate it as closely as possible in Vietnam. Once you find similar or suitable suppliers, get quotes and make a full and detailed list of suitable suppliers. You must update this list regularly to maximize your supply chain's robustness. If you are interested in this service, this is something that Cosmo can do for you. Cosmo has been helping clients find suppliers in Vietnam since 2014.

Many buyers and companies do not like to put all their eggs in one basket. As a result, many multinationals and larger volume FBA sellers have adopted a China + Vietnam Strategy. By sourcing and buying the same or similar products from both China and Vietnam simultaneously, you can take advantage of the best features of both countries and hedge your bets against any major changes in one country. Furthermore, with recent tariffs slapped against China, FBA buyers and major companies that use this policy could quickly shift production to Vietnam without any noticeable impact on their sales or supply chain.

The China + Vietnam Sourcing strategy started with the clothing and footwear industries, which have been used for years. However, the dual sourcing strategy is expanding quickly to several other industries. Even if you are already buying or manufacturing in China and do not plan to move, it is still valuable to assess the Vietnamese landscape to determine if you can do better here. Having a list of Vietnam suppliers can also give you a backup plan if things suddenly change in China. A company needs to be robust and have redundant operations strategies to ensure the best service for its customers.

Please email us at info@cosmosourcing.com

If you are interested in sourcing from Vietnam, feel free to reach out to the team at Cosmo Sourcing; we have been helping clients source from Vietnam since 2014. Cosmo Sourcing has the skills and the team to find you the best supplier possible. We are also established in China and are among the only companies that can find suppliers in China and Vietnam and pick the one you think is best.

Our services allow you to access new manufacturers that you would not be able to in China and avoid Tariffs. Our services are designed to do everything to take your idea, turn it into a product, and ship it to the final destination. Cosmo can do everything from creating a product spec sheet, validation, sourcing, ordering and evaluating samples, arranging inspections, finding freight forwarders, quality assurance, negotiations, and shipping. We aim to handle every single step of your business in Vietnam for you.

If you start a new business, finding products and suppliers for your products is one of many things, you need to handle. Our services are designed to handle every part of your business in China and Vietnam, so you can focus on the rest of growing your own business.

We have helped clients from Fortune 500 companies, brick-and-mortar stores, FBA sellers, and brand-new businesses. So don't hesitate to contact us and let us know how we can help you.

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Why Vietnam Is The Best Alternative To China For Manufacturing // Vietnam Sourcing Guide - Cosmo Sourcing

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Are you interested to see how sourcing products from Vietnam compare to China? Do you want to know the pros and cons of sourcing products from Vietnam? Curious as to how a sourcing company in Vietnam works?

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Pros and cons of sourcing in Vietnam

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SEATTLE, Washington - The Socialist Republic of Vietnam remains a communist nation, characterized by an oppressive government and minimal civil liberties. Many global companies, especially those found in capitalist, first world countries, outsource much of their labor to countries like Vietnam. Unfortunately, this practice used by many international corporations employs Vietnamese citizens in poor conditions. For example, many workers perform difficult tasks for as little as $40 per month. Below are some facts about the harsh reality of Vietnamese factory workers.

Nike Corporation

Nike employed nearly 10,000 workers at the Tae Kwang Vina factory back in 1995. Approximately 85 percent of these workers were women who came from northern and central Vietnam in search of a better life in the cities. However, for many migrant workers, the factory jobs were hardly any better than the rural lives they left behind.

Ernst & Young conducted an audit of Nike's Tae Kwang Vina factory in 1997. This audit revealed that at least 104 of the workers employed in the factory were under the age of 18, effectively violating the national labor code. Additionally, Ernst & Young found that the factory was also not in compliance with environmental regulations. The factory was using adhesive and cleaning chemicals that were not only damaging to the atmosphere but to the Vietnamese factory workers as well.

The years following the audit in 1997, the number of sick workers declined from 86 percent to 18 percent. The factory began to comply with workplace safety laws by using water-based adhesive in the Nike shoemaking process instead of the toxic chemicals that had affected so many workers. Since 1997, Nike has made it its goal to become a "zero waste" company by this year, complying with the environmental regulations laws. In short, Nike's efforts to change its poor practices in the past are benefiting its employees.

Minimum Wage Issues

Vietnam is one of the world's biggest clothing manufacturers in the world. Vietnamese factory workers supply to numerous fashion companies like H&M. These large clothing chains have more than 6,000 factories across Vietnam. Sadly, workers are often forced to work 50 hours of overtime per month to make ends meet.

A U.S. based campaign group known as the Fair Labor Association surveyed 13,000 workers in Vietnam. Most of the workers earned more than double Vietnam's minimum wage, yet they still needed to work absurd overtime hours to afford most needs. Many companies had pressured factory owners into not paying their workers a living wage. Essentially, this wicked practice perpetuates a kind of "modern slavery," with little advancement for the workers.

Oxfam Organization

The worldwide development organization, Oxfam, operates in Vietnam to protect workers. It found that only 23 percent of informal Vietnamese factory workers have health insurance. In addition to this, they lack legal protection to demand better hours and higher pay. Many workers resort to working overtime to make ends meet. Despite the concerns, Oxfam is making a proactive effort to target this issue and help the Vietnamese factory workers.

Firstly, Oxfam is working to ensure that migrant workers in factories, many of whom are women, are able to find representation and protection in the workplace. Oxfam believes that health insurance and social security are two social services that need to be drastically improved for the Vietnamese factory workers.

Low wages have required many Vietnamese factory workers to work an absurd amount of hours. While there were issues with international corporations taking advantage of the workers, reform has taken place and continues to take place. Urban factory work has come a long way in terms of safety and hazardous working conditions. Currently, the issue that must be resolved is that the minimum wage in Vietnam is simply not enough. There are still many things that need to be done to lift these workers out of the harsh reality that they face daily.

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The Reality of Vietnamese Factory Workers - BORGEN

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SEATTLE, Washington - The Socialist Republic of Vietnam remains a communist nation, characterized by an oppressive government and minimal civil liberties. Many global companies, especially those found in capitalist, first world countries, outsource much of their labor to countries like Vietnam. Unfortunately, this practice used by many international corporations employs Vietnamese citizens in poor conditions.

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Pros and cons of sourcing in Vietnam

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Vietnam has signed a lot of free trade agreeements with developed countries and territories:
Vietnam has become more and more open to the world,

Vietnam welcomes FDI and minimizing procedures for investors from all countries.

Together with signed FTAs, Vietnam also gives preferences to foreign investors in industrial zones

Remarkably, FTAs or trade agreements Vietnam has signed:
-EVFTA: a free trade agreement with the Europe, that is bringing tariffs of 2 sides to 0%, effective 1st August, 2020

-The US-Vietnam trade agreement that helps tariff on goods from Vietnam to the US decreased significantly

-CPTTP, the free trade agreement including 11 developed countries

-Joined WTO in 2007

-VKFTA, Vietnam-Korea free trade agreement

-VJEPA, Vietnam-Japan free trade agreement

-AFTA, Vietnam-Asean

-ACFTA, Vietnam-China free trade agreement

Geo-politics has changed:
Vietnam also gives a lot of preferences to attract foreign investors.

In 2020, Corona pandemic and the US-China trade war have made manufacturers in China feel at risk when put all eggs in one place (China), manufacturers plan to move out of China to South Asia, including Vietnam, Thai Land, Indonesia, India, Malaysia.

Number 1: Population almost reaches 100 million in 2020 Here are reasons why Vietnam is a bright star in manufacturing sector:
And Viet Nam is a bright star in this global chain shift.

In July, 2020, 30 japanese enterprises planned to move out of China and 15 chose Vietnam.

The population is very young and increasing 1% annually. That ensures a good supply of labor for factories and contributes a huge consuming maket in a promising economy that has registered an average annual growth rate of around 7% over the past decade.

Number 2: Strategically located at the heart of the Asia-Pacific region, directly connect to the most crowded maritime route (called East sea)

East sea accounts for more than 45% of the world's goods traffic, equivalent to 5300 billion USD of goods going through here per year.

to Vietnam, 100% import or export goods must go through East sea.

Due to geological advantage, logistics cost relating to Vietnam is cheap and Vietnam is a gate from that goods of other countries penetrating deep into South East Asia countries easily.

-The minimum wage in Hanoi is just $180/person/month in 2020, this also means low bonus and social insurance for laborer, and the average wage of workers is as half as that in China

Number 4: Tax incentives:
-Ready-built warehouse and build-to-suit warehouse is growing fast in Vietnam, the price for lease form $3.3 to $5 per sqm per month. Those warehouses usually built in preferential zones, like, tax exemption for 2, 4 or 9 years

-foreign investor is also able to own a big land for up to 50 years and build a custom factory on it.

-energy price in Vietnam is just $0.8/kwh, it is 30% lower than that in the U.S and lower twice than that in some european countries.

Number 6: Set up a company in Vietnam is very easy, like, a piece of cake
2. Disadvantages to set up manufacturing in Vietnam:
Depending on the location you set up the factory, your product type or the scale of your factory, tax incentives will be applied correspondently.

In particularly, by 2020, Vietnam has total 324 industrial zones, if you set up a factory there, it will be exempted or reduced from Corporate income tax for 2, 4, 9 years.

Number 5: stable politics:

Unlike in western countries, Vietnam has only one party with one mindset, each decision of the government is made for long term.

Most of the work items can be done remotely, all you have to prepare is just a copy of your passport and send it to a consulting firm in vietnam.

-Sub-vendors are limited, not likely in China, manufacturers still need to import machines or materials from other countries

-Housing for workers and expert sourrounding industrial zones is limited

-Infrastructure for logistics is still developing

-To big project, it takes time to get Investment certificate

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Pros and cons of setting up manufacturing in Vietnam

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Vietnam has signed a lot of free trade agreeements with developed countries and territories: Vietnam has become more and more open to the world, Vietnam welcomes FDI and minimizing procedures for investors from all countries.

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19/04/21

This information would have been extremely helpful when completing my PESTLE, however it is only focusing on statistic in Spain which while is somewhat insightful, does not provide a full picture of the brand. Therefore I decided not to include any quotes in the PESTLE

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In 2023, the total sales value of Pull & Bear in Spain amounted to over 1.36 billion euros, which represents an increase of approximately 195 million euros compared to the previous year. Inditex, the parent clothing company that encompasses widely known brands such as Zara or Massimo Dutti, also targets a younger and more casual market through its Galicia-based clothing and accessories brand Pull & Bear. Spain was the country with by far the most Inditex stores.
Inditex one of the biggest apparel companies worldwide
Inditex ranked as the world's second largest apparel and accessories retailer with nearly 33 billion U.S. dollars in 2021, following the American department store TJX Companies. Besides its sales revenues, the Spanish group saw a general increase in its number of stores worldwide, although the number has fallen since 2020, standing at roughly 5,800 in 2022.
Inditex and Zara
Out of the approximately 5.8 thousand Inditex stores globally, almost a third were Zara shops, ranking it as the leading Spanish clothing company. Therefore, it is no surprise that over the majority of Inditex sales were generated through the Zara brand in 2022.

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Pull & Bear: sales value in Spain 2023 | Statista

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In 2023, the total sales value of Pull & Bear in Spain amounted to over 1.36 billion euros, which represents an increase of approximately 195 million euros compared to the previous year.

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01/05/21

Quote from Zebedee about who they support get jobs and why.

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Zebedee Management | Inclusive Modelling Agency | Who We Are

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WHO WE ARE Zebedee is a specialist talent agency created to increase the representation of people who have until now been excluded in the media, including people with disabilities or alternative appearances and trans/non binary. Established in 2017, Zebedee looks after over 500 models and actors across Europe and the USA with a variety of needs.

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05/05/21

Used this source to gain info about the charity and how they can help with the donations made to them.

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Guide Dogs supports and raises awareness for blind and partially sighted people. Learn about our services or how you can donate or volunteer today.

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23/05/21

I was unsure of what Pull&Bear's online conversion rate was as I could see no direct data, so I found this document which shows me that an average conversion rate is 1.3%, much lower than I would have guessed. I have decided to guesstimate 2% based off of this piece of research.

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Littledata surveyed 1,015 Style and fashion stores in May 2020 and found the average conversion rate for Style and fashion was 1.3%.

What is a good conversion rate for Style and fashion?

Anything more than 2.9% would put you in the best 20% of Style and fashion stores we benchmark for conversion rate, and more than 4.1% would put you in the best 10%.

Is your website better than 2.9% conversion rate?

What is a bad conversion rate for Style and fashion?

Ecommerce conversion rate (all devices) of less than 0.3% would put you in the worst 20% of Style and fashion stores, and less than 0.0% would put you in the worst-performing stores.

Is your website worse than 0.3% conversion rate?

What does 'conversion rate' mean?

The number of purchases divided by the total number of sessions. Most visitors will take more than one session to decide to purchase, but this is the standard measure of conversion rate.

Compared to the conversion rate benchmark?

If your Style and fashion site has an conversion rate of between 0.3% and 2.9% then you are average compared with this benchmark. With less than 0.0% you are definitely underperforming the conversion rate benchmark.

Where does this data come from?

We create anonymised benchmark data from 1,015 stores (Websites about style and fashion) which use Littledata to optimise their online performance. You can view the average website performance, or see how the benchmarking feature works .

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Average ecommerce conversion rate (all devices) for Style and fashion websites | Littledata Benchmarks

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Littledata surveyed 1,015 Style and fashion stores in May 2020 and found the average conversion rate for Style and fashion was 1.3%. Anything more than 2.9% would put you in the best 20% of Style and fashion stores we benchmark for conversion rate, and more than 4.1% would put you in the best 10%.

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Level 4 Diploma Business Plan Template_Feb20-3 copy 2