What: Jovani Fashion is suing Saks Global for nearly $300,000 in unpaid invoices for goods shipped in 2025.

Why it is important: This development highlights the reputational risks and operational challenges luxury retailers face when payment practices erode supplier trust.

Jovani Fashion, a prominent New York-based designer and wholesaler, has initiated legal action against Saks Global to recover almost $300,000 in unpaid invoices for dresses shipped throughout 2025. The lawsuit, filed in New York Supreme Court, comes amid growing frustration among vendors over Saks Global’s persistent payment delays, which have intensified since its acquisition of Neiman Marcus in late 2024. While most brands have hesitated to pursue legal remedies to preserve their business relationships, Jovani’s decision to sue signals a shift in the industry’s tolerance for delayed payments. The complaint details that Saks Global accepted and partially paid for the goods but left a substantial balance outstanding, prompting Jovani to seek judicial intervention. This case underscores the broader financial pressures and operational uncertainties facing luxury retailers, as manufacturers increasingly weigh the risks of nonpayment against the need to maintain critical retail partnerships. The outcome could set a precedent for how similar disputes are handled in the evolving retail landscape. 

IADS Notes: The Jovani Fashion lawsuit against Saks Global illustrates the deepening strain between luxury retailers and their suppliers, a trend that has been building since Saks’ merger with Neiman Marcus. As reported in August 2025 (“Saks Global not following through on vendors overdue payments,” Retail Dive), February 2025 (“Saks new payment terms backfired,” BoF), and March 2025 (“The whirlwind ride with Saks Global, vendors speak out,” WWD), Saks’ adoption of extended payment terms and reduction in vendor partnerships have eroded trust and triggered industry backlash, particularly among smaller brands. Although some improvements were noted by June 2025 (“Saks Global update: what’s on the minds of vendors,” WWD), ongoing concerns about financial stability and supplier relationships persist, mirroring similar challenges faced by other retailers like Debenhams in September 2025 (“Debenhams warns some suppliers of late payments,” Retail Week).

Saks Global sued by Jovani Fashion over $295K in late payments