TEMPE, Ariz., May 24, 2019 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- While recent news that national chain David's Bridal has been downgraded yet again by S&P Global has ricocheted through the retail industry and online analysts, independent brick and mortar bridal stores report continued strong sales. The National Bridal Retailers Association (NBRA) cites recent statistics from The Knot's 2018 Wedding Attire Study that reports the independent mortar bridal salon industry has grown to represent 69% of all bridal gown sales in the US, up from 58% in 2011.
Although recent articles allude to a shifting market and a price point polarization of wedding apparel shoppers, leaving a hollowed middle market, the recent Knot Wedding Attire Study actually finds that the middle market is the price point at which most brides purchase, with the average spend in retail stores growing to over $1700 - the bridal industry's "middle" price point.
Ann Campeau, Director of the NBRA stated, "While most brick and mortar bridal stores have a strong selection of bridal gowns in that 'middle' pricepoint, they're actually a great source for discount wedding dresses, too. The upcoming National Bridal Sale Event (NBSE), in which hundreds of bridal stores across the country participate, is a great time for brides on a budget to shop." The NBSE is scheduled to run July 20 through 27, although participation varies by store. "I always advise brides to buy the best quality gown they can afford, and during this sale they can buy quality designer wedding dresses at deep discounts. Independent brick and mortar bridal stores really can service EVERY bride, from those with smaller budgets to the couture market and everything in between," Campeau added. A list of stores participating in the National Bridal Sale Event can be found at http://www.nationalbridalsaleevent.com.
The NBRA represents over 6,000 independently owned brick and mortar bridal stores and will fight against increased manufacturing and import costs, counterfeit goods and work toward new industry standards in a changing retail environment to create a united industry that is focused on partnerships between retailers and manufacturers.
SOURCE National Bridal Retailers Association
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