How have sales fared in recent years?
"Fur sales continue their upward trend reflecting fur's importance in today's fashion," explains Keith Kaplan, Executive Director of FICA. "In 1985, only 42 fashion designers were using fur in their ready to wear collections. Today there are more than 400 renowned fashion designers showing fur fashions, coats and fur-trimmed merchandise appealing to a broad cross section of consumers. Men and women of all ages are buying fur today and fur can be found in designer boutiques, specialty retailers, sporting goods stores, accessories shops and boutiques for men and women as well as at the more traditional fur salons and department stores."
As reported by Southwick Association, fur sales figure for 2003 were the highest reported since 1991 when the research survey began. In 2003, U.S. retailers reported fur sales of $1.8 billion, up 7.5% from 2002 and up 80% from 1991. Over 55% of purchases in 2003 were made by consumers under 44 years of age, with men now accounting for nearly 5% of all purchases. New York remains the number 1 city in terms of fur sales.
Recognizing that these figures reflect only the universe of traditional fur retailers we interview, sales increases are probably even more significant when taking into account the growth among department stores and specialty retailers. In fact, a recent study done by WWD Magazine reported that of 200 high end specialty retailers interviewed across the US in April, 2004, over 74% carried fur products in their store with 79% of the remaining stores planning to add fur within the year. Further, a recent Financial Times article reported a 400% increase in the number of doors carrying fur worldwide over the past 5 years.
Among fur types mink remains the strongest seller, accounting for 71.4% of total sales. Led by the return of the classic mink coat as an important fashion purchase, long-haired mink represented 42.7% of total sales, while sheared mink continued its growth trend of recent years generating 28.7% of total sales. Shearling followed at 12.0% of total sales as innovative new designs spurred consumer interest.
To what do you attribute this strong consumer demand?
Innovations in design and manufacturing have allowed designers to use fur in more creative ways than ever before. New techniques in dying, laser cutting and micro-shearing, embellishment and other treatments have allowed the creation of a much broader range of silhouettes and products that appeal to a much broader range of consumers. Add to that the fact that fur is seen in so many more retail outlets and supported by such strong fashion editorial.
Why is fur in fashion now?
The number of designers working in fur now approaches 400. New, innovative techniques of working with fur and dyeing fur have made it a much more flexible fabric, much more adaptable to high fashion ranging from elegant evening to street chic. This new creativity coupled with the unique, luxurious tactile benefits of fur make it the ultimate fabric for adding a dash of luxury and spirit to any wardrobe. And, with today's fur coats significantly lighter in weight (although just as warm as before) they are easier for women to wear and to travel with.
Where can I learn more about fur and the fur industry?
Check out our Industry Links for links to the fur industry from fashion and manufacturing to farming and trade history these sites will have what you're looking for.
Where can I take a class on fur design & manufacturing?
Many design schools include fur manufacturing & design as one segment of study within their design curriculum. Additionally, we have provided tours and instruction to various schools.
Historically, what has been the most popular fur (men/women)?
Historically, mink has maintained its popularity among both men and women.
The animal rights movement continues to target the fur industry. Haven't they been responsible for the previous declines in fur sales?
According to research done by Responsive Management, a public opinion research firm specializing in environmental conservation and wildlife issues, 88% of all Americans say that the animal rights movement had no influence on their decision to buy (or not buy) fur. In fact, 92% said they disapprove of the tactics used by animal activists. The recession of 1987 through the early 90's was the primary reason for the decline in fur sales.
How do you respond to those who say wearing fur is wrong?
What one chooses to wear is a matter of personal choice. We respect the decision of those who choose not to wear fur just as we respect the decision of those who choose not to eat meat. But if a person chooses to wear fur, or eat meat, they should be able to do so free of harassment.
With so many good fake furs out there why should the consumer choose real fur?
Imitation is the greatest form of flattery. The proliferation of fake fur only proves the point that fur is in! But, no matter how good the fake it will never have the warmth, the feel or the durability of real fur. There is also a strong point to be made from an environmental point-of-view as most fake fur is made from natural resources (such as oil) that are limited in availability, while fur is a renewable resource. The manufacture of fake fur also releases harmful chemicals into the atmosphere. Further, in a study titled "Environmental Consequences of Textile Marketing" undertaken at Oregon State University in 1997 a broad range of textiles including wool, leather, fur, cotton, silk, linen, rayon, polyester, nylon and acrylic were evaluated across a number of environmental variables. For a textile to be considered compatible with the environment it had to be non-polluting to obtain, process, fabricate, maintain and dispose; 100% biodegradable; long-lasting; renewable; reusable; natural/non-toxic; energy efficient to obtain and produce and producing minimal waste in it's production. In composite scoring across all environmental criteria, the farmed and wild fur outperformed all other textiles. So, one must ask, is fake fur really preferable?
Animal rights supporters suggest that fur is just a vanity item. Don't most people wear fur just to show off?
No. The number one reason given by consumers when asked why they purchased their fur is warmth.
PETA and other animal rights groups routinely distribute graphic videos of animals being tortured or living in horrifying conditions. Have you seen these videos? What do you think of them?
Yes, we've seen them. We have asked for verification of authenticity on these tapes and have never received it. And, in fact, in a number of recent cases it has been proven that the footage was staged in order to create these "snuff films". Remember that our industry is regulated at the local, state and national levels. Our members follow strict guidelines for animal care that have been established with the guidance of the American Veterinary Medical Association. If there is a farm where these conditions exist we hope it will be brought to our attention so that we can work with the proper authorities in addressing the issue.
There seems to be a growing trend within the animal rights community to use such tactics as mink releases and vandalism at fur salons in order to get their point across. Supporters say this is the only way the public will listen, and besides, they take great measures to make sure no person is ever hurt. Aren't these just noble warriors standing by their moral convictions?
We must remember that these animal activists are criminals, not heroes. Their actions destroy personal property, threaten individuals, and cost taxpayers unnecessary dollars for police activity and court costs. Their acts are criminal and must be recognized as such. Quite simply, a fire set in a furniture store would result in the perpetrator being arrested and punished to the extent of the law. Why should it be any different in the case of a fur store? With their threats, their intimidation and their malicious, destructive acts, government and law enforcement are now recognizing animal activists as "domestic terrorists".
How can you justify the horrible conditions that exist for animals on farms?
Animal rights activists prey upon emotions by distributing false propaganda and fabricated materials about conditions on fur farms. Our farmers follow the guidelines for care and management set forth by the American Veterinary Medical Association. In fact, we are very proud of our farmers and their farms. It is interesting to note that, for example, the life span of a mink on the farm exceeds that of a mink in the wild, and the farmed mink is healthier and stronger than his wild counterpart. It is only in the farmer's interest, from an economic standpoint, to raise the strongest, healthiest animals possible for they will be worth the most at market.
What about trapping? Isn't it unnecessary and cruel?
Wildlife biologists and wildlife management officials agree that fur bearers are so abundant in the U.S. today that overpopulation poses a threat to their own welfare. Failure to properly manage these populations will result in disaster for the animals, their habitats and the people who must share space with them. Trapping is the most efficient method of controlling overpopulation and is a highly regulated practice that uses state-of-the-art methodology developed through years of research at the international level. Further, wildlife professionals need trapping to monitor and curb the incidences of wildlife diseases such as rabies, lyme disease and distemper. The potential for sale of pelts only adds to the incentive for trappers to perform this vital function.
Does the fur industry use endangered species?
No. The fur industry adheres to all CITES regulations and supports all laws and treaties regarding endangered species. In fact, for over three decades the industry has voluntarily banned the use of any animal considered to be endangered.
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