What: UK retailer Next has launched a new luxury-oriented e-commerce site called Seasons, aiming to expand its presence in the high-end fashion market.

Why it is important: Next intends to tap into the growing luxury e-commerce sector, particularly following the collapse of Matches Fashion and the consolidation of other luxury platforms. It also positions Next to compete with established luxury players by offering a curated selection of contemporary and designer brands, with plans for international expansion.

Next has launched Seasons, a luxury e-commerce platform focusing on contemporary and designer fashion. The launch follows significant shifts in the luxury e-commerce space, including the collapse of Matches Fashion and Mytheresa's acquisition of Yoox-Net-a-Porter. Initially serving only the UK, Seasons aims to expand internationally by 2026. The platform will feature brands like Ganni, Marc Jacobs, and Tory Burch, with ambitions to eventually include higher-end labels from groups like Kering and Richemont. The site will operate on a wholesale model but may transition to e-concessions as it grows. With a minimalistic design and a focus on full-price sales, Seasons seeks to avoid heavy discounting that has hurt other luxury retailers. Next hopes to leverage its existing infrastructure and customer base, which includes 8 million active users globally.

Next ventures into luxury with new e-commerce platform Seasons