Why Bessette is a More Sustainable Way to Shop

The fashion industry is notorious for it's billion dollar excess stock problem. It might surprise some consumers, that fast-fashion brands aren't the only ones with this problem - as even luxury brands face deadstock issues. 

Deadstock refers to products that were never sold to consumers and have remained in a brand's inventory for an extended period. Unlike used or second-hand items, deadstock items are typically new, unworn, and often come with original tags and packaging. These items can range from clothing and shoes to accessories and even fabric rolls that were never turned into finished products.

Several factors contribute to the accumulation of deadstock:

1. Overproduction: To meet anticipated demand, brands often produce more items than needed. When these items don't sell, they become deadstock.
2. Changing Trends: Fashion is highly trend-driven. Items that were in vogue last year, might not be in style this year. 
3. Seasonal Changes: Clothing that is specific to a particular season (like winter coats or summer dresses) can become deadstock if not sold during that season.
4. Retail Strategies: Discounts, sales, and clearances are used to move inventory, but some items inevitably remain unsold.

Deadstock has both economic and environmental implications. Brands tie up capital in unsold inventory, affecting cash flow and profitability. Warehousing deadstock also incurs costs. Deadstock also has a large environmental footprint. Disposal of deadstock, whether through landfill or incineration, further exacerbates environmental harm.

At Bessette, we source our stock either form the brands directly or from multi-brand retailers. Mostly the stock is excess inventory that can't be moved - but can also include slightly damaged items (such as small scuffs on the bottom of shoes worn in a photoshoot). If there are small imperfections, we will always have pictures of it in the listing and clearly state it.