Attire Accessories - Jul/Aug 2019 (Issue 77)

INDUSTRY NEWS 11 Industry news Find out about all the latest from the fashion accessories industry in our regular news roundup CAPRICE INTRODUCES DIGITAL PRODUCTION LINE German shoe designer Caprice has introduced a new digital production line at its in-house research and development centre in Pirmasens, Germany, in order to provide a faster and more cost-effective production line. The new production line was made possible by a concatenation of 3D design and printing, scanners, a fully automated photo studio, cutting plotters, and a digital leather cutter of the latest generation. Having invested a six-figure sum in the plant, the design process allows soles, heels and shoe accessories to be scanned, modified and printed as a new 3D model. Jürgen Cölsch, managing partner at Caprice, stated, “It is essential for us to continuously implement new technologies in all areas of the company in order to further increase our high-quality level. With the commissioning of the digital production line, we now have the opportunity to develop our collections on site in real time and to produce special series.” Visit caprice.de GIFT CARDS PLAY VITAL ROLE IN DRIVING CUSTOMER LOYALTY, SAYS SURVEY Gift cards are said to play a vital role in driving customer loyalty and engagement, with almost a fifth of UK shoppers more likely to become a more regular customer of a brand if they had been given one of their gift cards, according to the UK Gift Card & Voucher Association (UKGCVA). According to the survey, younger buyers are even more likely to be loyal to a brand, with 31 per cent of Gen Z/Millennial consumers stating they had become a repeat customer after being given a gift card. Gail Cohen, director general of the UKGCVA, commented, “Our research found that gift cards are set to play several crucial roles in the coming years and, in particular, will serve an important function in driving brand awareness, engagement and customer loyalty. “Gift cards are a great way to introduce a customer to a new brand and also to help to build continued customer engagement when used as part of a customer loyalty or incentive programme. “It is therefore more important than ever that the industry seeks to satisfy rapidly evolving shopper requirements by ensuring the most effective programmes and systems are in place. “Part of this is for senior management and the c-suite to work closely with the gift card professionals within their organisations to understand the true value and potential that gift cards can play in their marketing, loyalty and sales strategies.” Visit ukgcva.co.uk