New Mart changes fashion industry with ethical standards

The New Mart, located just off of 9th St., has been making waves in the fashion district of Los Angeles.

When it was first established, the building catered solely for retail stores, offices, and manufacturing. The New Mart now serves as a property base showcasing wholesale high-fashion showrooms.

This year, the building has increased total attendees by almost double the amount reached in 2014. Last year in January, the total number of attendees was 463; which is about 1.7 percent less than the amount this year (791 attendees). The goal of New Mart is to bring in new buyers as well as returning buyers to the building.

Market Week brings in buyers for New Mart

Ashleigh Kaspszak, director and marketing & public relations for New Mart, ignited the building’s radar during Market Week from Mar. 16-19. Market Week is a five-time per year event, where international retailers visit the New Mart to purchase the newest collections for their stores. The ethics of the New Mart contribute to that idea that local fashion buyers want to contribute to unifying L.A. and supporting local businesses. ”When its made in L.A., the money goes back to the stylists, to the boutiques, to [the city],” said Kaspszak.

Kaspszak also said that designers often team or collaborate with one another to help out. For example, on Monday, Eileen Fisher showcased her collection and also cross-promoted her project. Each brand is associated with a charity; making New Mart the ethical building of the block. “We’re trying to show that the New Mart supports these ethics with our approach,” said Kaspszak.

In 1986, the owners wanted to change the building into something fresh and new, but also keeping the integrity of the historical landmark. They constructed a massive restoration costing 1.5 million to preserve its ancient roots. The building now uses its vintage look to showcase brands reshaping their company. “In 2008, a lot of showrooms closed down, but what we’re seeing is a lot of reshaping and success stories now,” said Kaspszak.

Kaspszak says the ultimate goal of the New Mart is to unify the fashion district by bringing good businesses together. The building thoroughly goes through their buyer lists, making sure that their buyers are legitimate. Their virtuous attitude has shown positive results in their business. According to their analytics, for March 2015, they’ve had 367 new buyers as well as 381 returning buyers (who have visited before at a previous Market Week).

The next Market Week will be from Jun. 8-11 later this year.