Asos pauses supplier deliveries

Asos has paused several incoming deliveries from suppliers and third-party brands as it makes adjustments to manage its stock throughout the coronavirus uncertainty. 

Like many other brands and retailers, Asos is adjusting its stock intake. As a result, the etailer is understood to be refusing shipments for spring 20 orders from several third-party brands and suppliers. 

Last week Monsoon Accessorize, Debenhams and M&Co extended their supplier payment terms, effective immediately. Meanwhile, New Look put a halt on all current and future production and Primark wrote to all suppliers asking them to put a halt on all current and future production and the purchasing of any materials for the retailer. 

One source close to Asos said: “They were one of our few hopes – our situation is dire at the moment. Surely, as one of the online giants, they have a responsibility to support smaller brands as much as they can?” 

Asos is continuing to serve its customer deliveries as usual.

Volcom Furloughs 75 Percent of Its Workers While Making Plans to Ramp Up

Action sports apparel firm Volcom LLC furloughed most of its staff, according to a report from Shop-Eat-Surf, after a statewide lockdown this week halted operations for many California businesses.

The industry news site reported 75% of its U.S. staff and all of its European workforce were furloughed. Volcom employes 270 workers in California and 890 globally.

Inquiries to Volcom and its New York parent Authentic Brands Group were not immediately returned Saturday afternoon.

ABG and Volcom management last year formed the operating company Liberated Brands to purchase Volcom’s operations from French luxury conglomerate Kering S.A. ABG, separately, acquired Volcom’s intellectual property from Kering to license back to Liberated Brands.

The furloughs follow California Gov. Gavin Newsom’s stay-at-home order this week. Businesses dubbed essential, such as grocery stores and pharmacies, can continue operating.

Volcom is currently running a "40% off everything" sale online.