Consumers voted Nordstrom their favorite fashion retailer for the sixth year in a row, but they also had nice things to say about Lane Bryant, Dillard’s, Forever 21, and Kohl’s, a new survey says.
The survey, Market Force Information, a company based in Louisville, Colo., questioned 10,000 consumers.
Those surveyed cited Nordstrom for having the best merchandise selection, size options, atmosphere, and checkout speeds. Ironically, the Seattle-based chain also was ranked close to the bottom for providing value for money. (Kohl’s, which ranked third overall, was cited as the best for providing value for money.)
After Nordstrom, consumers favored plus-size retailer Lane Bryant, which came in second. Respondents cited its ability to create a look, as well as its success in making it easy to find items they were seeking.
Dillard’s, Forever 21, and Kohl’s tied for third. Rounding out the list were JC Penney, which came in fourth; Macy’s, which ranked fifth; H&M, sixth; Banana Republic, seventh; and Old Navy in eighth.
Many consumers still say they don’t receive help while shopping, even though Market Force Information’s statistics show that receiving help generally prods consumers to buy more. Just 43 percent reported being helped by a sales associate during their last shopping trip, and only 38 percent said the suggestions for items ended up fitting their needs. Lane Bryant and Nordstrom employees assisted customers most often, while Kohl’s and Old Navy customers were assisted the least.
The survey also found that consumer confidence in the overall economy has slipped. Just 28 percent believe the economy will grow stronger in the next year; by contrast, 40 percent believed that last year. In addition, 35 percent expect the economy will weaken and 37 percent think it will stay the same.
This outlook may be dampening consumers’ desire to spend on fashion, as only 9 percent plan to spend more this year compared to last, while 24 percent will cut their budget. Some 67 percent said they will spend about the same.
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