J.Crew Group, Inc.

Several major fashion firms, including VF Corp., The Gap and The RealReal, are without a permanent chief and experts say the turmoil at the top is a prime opportunity to reshape the industry’s leadership profile. MyTheresa and J.Crew CEOs discuss leadership.

H&M is the latest to enter the space, with a marketplace set to launch on Sept. 7 in Canada. The fast fashion behemoth sees an opportunity to bring in new customers and burnish its sustainability credentials. But it has plenty of competition.

Brendon Babenzien, co-founder of the streetwear brand Noah and former Supreme designer, joins the mall brand’s mens business as creative director. But an updated look won’t solve all of J.Crew’s problems.

Ethical denim-maker Saitex’s automated facility in California is a sign that localised, just-in-time manufacturing may be poised for widespread adoption.

Jan Singer, who only joined the ailing retailer in February, will be succeeded by Madewell chief executive Libby Wadle.