Imogen Bailey, Associate Editor of Ragtrader magazine and host of Ragtrader Radio, talks with Larry Kestelman, executive chairman of LK Group, about investing in fashion businesses and changes he sees in consumer behaviour over the next 12 to 18 months.

We start by discussing Larry's approach to investing in fashion businesses, the key things LK Group can bring and the importance of maintaining brands. We then review the impacts COVID has had on fashion businesses along with the lessons learned and changes made to continue operating.

Larry also stresses that it is not enough to be in love with fashion, highlighting the need to monitor buying trends and adjust accordingly. He also provides his views on how the Australian retail market will respond to the easing of restrictions, this year's Black Friday event and Christmas.

The discussion then moves on to balancing online and physical presence, determining where to locate stores and LK Group's willingness to invest for long term growth rather than short term gain. This leads to a general discussion on private equity and the importance of understanding how it operates if you're considering selling to a private equity firm.

We wrap up the episode with Larry's future plans for the brands they own, how they plan to grow them and the potential for acquiring others.

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Ragtrader Radio is produced by Southern Skies Media on behalf of Ragtrader, owned and published by Yaffa Media.

The views of the people featured on this podcast do not necessarily represent the views of Ragtrader, Yaffa Media, or the guest’s employer. The contents are copyright by Yaffa Media.

If you wish to use any of this podcast’s audio, please contact Ragtrader via their website www.ragtrader.com.au or send an email to info@yaffa.com.au.

Host: Imogen Bailey

Facilitator: Grant McHerron

Producer: Steve Visscher

Ragtrader - © 2021