Page Historical Timeline of the Bathing Suit Secondary Data Search qThe North American Swimwear Market 4 qInfluential Factors of Demand5 qSwimwear Industry9 qDistribution13 qRetailing and Advertising16 qExternal Factors17 Strategic Assessment qChanges in the Past Five Years18 qIncreasing Obesity20 qIncreasing R&D20 qSunbathing-Related Health Concerns21 Primary Research qIndependent Local Market Study23 Recommendations25 The intent of this study is to become well informed of the North American swimwear industry, to discover opportunities that have not been exploited, and even try to determine where the industry is heading. This information is very beneficial to one of our group members, Andree-Anne, who presently designs her own swimsuits and is very interested in opening a new type of retail store. She sees a potential in creating swimwear that blends element of fashion and competition to extend its utility, durability, and comfort. The new retail concept would also have a made-to-fit order policy to provide the best fit for every womans body type. This industry study will hopefully give her greater insights and help bring these ideas to reality. BriefingWe begin with the history of the swimsuit industry, followed by an extensive secondary data search. This section contains the bulk of the factual findings, such as sales, demand factors, and channel conditions. It includes a detailed analysis of the major competitors, how swimwear is branded, distribution channels, and promotional efforts. This section gives an overview of all the internal and external factors and how they translate to the industrys strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. A strategic analysis examines the past and current trends in the swimsuit industry, while the Future section examines research and development, obesity and the potential harm of UV exposure. We then include all primary research, such as interviews with Yves Le...
