Since the last Menswear Retailing report, in October 2005, deflation has continued as the market has become ever more competitive. Further retailers have entered the arena and expanded (eg New Look, Monsoon) and 2006 was challenging for many, due to the World Cup and the weather. The middle market has been squeezed by the growth of the value players - especially Primark - and the supermarkets, whilst the recovery of M&S impacted other mid-sector players.

Menswear trends have been less directional, but the move towards a smarter look is benefiting some retailers. The clean-cut, well-groomed style and 80s influence emerging from the catwalk is difficult for the high street to interpret into commercial success. Men have become more confident shoppers, but women are still key purchasers, so retailers have to appeal to both. Going forward, consolidation among both retailers and mid-market brands is expected.

The products covered in the report include:

• Formalwear, including suits, formal shirts and trousers, shirt and tie sets, formal jackets and blazers, coats, raincoats.
• Casualwear, including knitwear, casual shirts, T-shirts, polo shirts, other tops, rugby shirts, casual trousers, jeans, shorts, casual jackets, anoraks.

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