Plus-size clothing consumers lack choice in Australia
12 Apr '12
1 min read
Larger size clothing is limited and expensive in Australia, despite there being a demand for plus-sizes, according to an investigation carried out by Choice, an independent organization run by consumers for consumers.
The report says that women with larger sizes lack choices and are forced to shop online or at chain stores for plus-size apparels. In comparison, slimmer girls have plenty of choices for their garments, which are available at lower prices, it adds.
The report suggests that retailers who are struggling with sales should consider increasing their range to sizes 16 and above (Australian).
Choice said there is a big market for plus-sizes and several designers and retailers are missing out on their profits by not catering to them.
The study says sizes 10 and 12 are largely stocked in shopping malls and high streets stores, but size 14 quickly vanishes from the shelves and it becomes quite difficult to spot a size 16.
Some fashion designers and clothing retailers avoid larger sizes because they want their brand to cater to a particular body shape. But, in the midst of falling retail sales, catering to larger sizes provides a good opportunity for retailers to increase their sales, the report concluded.