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Apparel Software for Consignment: How AIMS360 Powers Shop-in-Shop Success
In today’s retail landscape, giving goods on consignment is a powerful strategy—especially in shop-in-shop (SIS) environments. With AIMS360, apparel brands get purpose-built ERP tools that simplify the complexity of consignment, from inventory tracking to invoicing and reporting.
Starting in 2021, AIMS360 has helped multiple brands operate successful consignment programs with major retailers like Bloomingdale’s, giving them the confidence to scale while maintaining operational control.
What Is Consignment Selling?
Consignment means a brand supplies inventory to a retailer without requiring the retailer to buy it upfront. The retailer only pays for the goods that sell and returns the rest.
This model reduces risk for retailers and gives brands valuable retail exposure and sales opportunities with minimal upfront investment.
What Is a Shop-in-Shop Store?
A shop-in-shop (SIS) is a branded space operated by a vendor inside a larger retailer, such as a department store or specialty retailer. Brands often use consignment in SIS setups, which allows them to test new markets and maintain full control of merchandising.
Why Apparel Brands Use Consignment in Shop-in-Shop Stores
- Retailers don’t have to purchase inventory upfront
- Brands can get premium placement in major stores
- Sales and inventory are tracked by location
- Unsold items can be returned or reallocated
- A smart way to expand while managing cash flow
How AIMS360 Apparel Software Simplifies Consignment?
Managing consignment sales across multiple SIS locations can be operationally complex. AIMS360 removes the friction with features built specifically for apparel brands:
Inventory by Location
Track how much inventory is at each SIS or department store location, with visibility into stock levels, sales, and returns.
Consignment Invoicing
Create invoices only for items that sell—automatically. No spreadsheets or manual work needed.
Returns and Reallocation
Process returns of unsold goods and move them to other stores or back to your warehouse.
Reporting Tools
Get real-time insights into sell-through, revenue, and inventory movement across SIS locations.
AIMS360 in Action: Shop-in-Shop with Bloomingdale’s
Several of our fashion brand clients operates shop-in-shop locations inside Bloomingdale’s, providing goods on consignment.
Since 2021, AIMS360 has supported fashion brands for:
- Tracking inventory by store
- Automatically invoicing only sold items
- Optimizing their product mix by analyzing sell-through
- Managing returns and restocking with ease
These brands have successfully expanded into multiple Bloomingdale’s locations while keeping operations lean and accounting accurate—thanks to the flexibility and reliability of AIMS360.
Thinking of running consignment in a shop-in-shop setup?
Let AIMS360 handle the backend so you can focus on growth.
FAQs About Apparel Consignment and Shop-in-Shop Inventory Management
What is consignment inventory in apparel retail?
Consignment inventory in apparel retail refers to goods that are provided to a retailer by a brand without upfront purchase. The retailer only pays for the items that sell, and the rest can be returned. This reduces risk for retailers and allows brands to expand reach with less financial pressure.
How does consignment work in a shop-in-shop environment?
In a shop-in-shop (SIS) setting, the brand operates its own retail section within a larger store (such as Bloomingdale’s). The brand provides inventory on consignment and tracks what sells. Only the sold items are invoiced, and AIMS360 helps automate this entire process.
How can apparel ERP software help manage consignment sales?
An apparel ERP like AIMS360 tracks inventory by location, automates consignment invoicing, handles returns, and provides real-time reporting. It helps brands stay organized, reduce manual effort, and scale their consignment business with confidence.
Can AIMS360 manage multiple shop-in-shop locations?
Yes. AIMS360 supports tracking and managing inventory across multiple SIS locations. Brands can view performance by store, rep, or product, and generate consignment invoices based on each location’s actual sales.
What’s the benefit of using software for consignment invoicing?
Manual consignment invoicing is time-consuming and prone to error. AIMS360 automates consignment invoicing based on sell-through data, ensuring brands only invoice for what actually sold—saving time and improving accuracy.
Is consignment a good fit for new fashion brands?
Yes. Consignment allows new fashion brands to get into premium retailers or shop-in-shop setups without forcing the retailer to carry inventory risk. It’s a low-barrier path to scaling retail exposure and testing product-market fit.
What types of retailers use consignment with apparel brands?
Department stores, boutiques, and specialty retailers often engage in consignment relationships with apparel brands—especially in shop-in-shop formats. Examples include Bloomingdale’s, Nordstrom, and multi-brand concept stores.
