1. During 1980s, incomes have steadily risen which has created an environment which is friendly to mail order business. With increased incomes, individuals and families are able to spend more on everyday items such as clothing, and companies such as Lands' End are able to take advantage of this without having to resort to discounting.
On a social level, the 1980s saw increased numbers of women working outside the home with the result that the time available for shopping has diminished. Women historically do most of the shopping for clothing as well as items for the home, and their increased presence in the workplace means that they have less time to spend the money that they are earning. This also stimulates demand for mail order businesses.
Technology also saw considerable change during the 1980s, with computers recognizing significant advances. Because of this, companies are able to automate their operations and use fewer human employees to perform tasks such as order fulfillment and customer tracking; this means that companies can realize increased profitability on their revenues. Technological innovation also means that companies such as Lands' End can have their headquarters in one location and their production facilities or warehouses in other areas where labor costs are lower.
2. Demand at this point in the mail order industry has leveled off from the strong growth that it exhibited during the early 1980s. As the population continues to age, this demand is likely to show smaller rates of change although it is not likely to decrease. The individuals who have started using mail order are likely to continue to use it so long as they are satisfied with the products and service that they receive. It may be difficult for companies to attract new customers to the industry among older consumers, but younger consumers may well be brought into the mail order experience. As these consumers age, the likelihood that they wi...