And another thing...

Whether it’s a reasonable opinion or an unreasonable rant, be sure to tell us what’s on your mind by emailing marc.barber@vitessemedia.co.uk

Recession is so last season
There are no two ways about it, the fashion industry has been hit and unfortunately some brands have not
been able to survive. But for the rest of us, I believe there is light at the end of the tunnel.

By no means am I saying that my own range is untouchable or hasn’t felt the full force of the downturn.

We’ve felt the impact like everyone else, specifically in regards to exchange rates – buying products in dollars and selling in sterling has been punishing to say the least.

However, much like fashion, the dreaded ‘R’ word is seasonal and I believe the economic winter is coming to an end. So how do we prepare to proceed into the new economic season?

At my company we have focused on steady growth through competitive pricing with no compromise on quality. It is a cliché but never has the phrase “quality shines through” been more relevant. This is one of the reasons why I visit the factory twice a year to personally ensure that the stock being produced is of the highest possible calibre.

We have also concentrated on our online branding by forming partnerships with both ASOS and Figleaves. I feel that developing your distribution channels and creating alliances are vital in times like these – you have to maximise your selling power.

Caprice Bourret, CEO, By Caprice Lingerie

UK transport system is a disgrace
I may be a contender for the slowest and most expensive 10.2 miles in history.  

Thanks to the renowned efficiency of British Airways and our unrivalled rail system, I spent a highly unproductive eight hours and 50 minutes attempting to travel from Manchester to Heathrow and back again, costing me a total of £340.10 and a missed business opportunity. For that price I could have bought a last-minute ticket to Hong Kong, and in that time I could have made it to Katmandu.  

In reality, I made it from my home to my office 10.2 miles away.

Having taken part in the Great Manchester 10k, I am certain I could have run there more quickly.

Mark Vickers, CEO, NetServices

Weed out the eco impostors
Companies know that being green is attractive to consumers (‘21 ways to turn your business green,’ Business XL, June issue). But there is a big difference between talking a good green game and being “actually” green. Especially when the public is on the look out for “Green-washing”, where a company disingenuously promotes its products or services as environmentally friendly.

Recently, some large brands have been pushing green messages through their marketing. Their intentions may be good but they risk criticism because the green creative message in their advertising is not backed up by a commitment to use green forms of marketing – often known as eco-advertising.

It’s a good start from the big brands but they need to think about the medium they use to communicate as well as the creative message if they want to win green plaudits.

Anthony Ganjou, MD, natural media company CURB