[lovetteregner]

Yes. There are quite a lot of independent labels -- especially as the current barriers to entry allow almost anyone with reasonable design skills to start one. Also, the design-to-delivery/store costs are way cheaper in emerging economies like the Philippines (where we're based), allowing local designers to produce quality at a minimum. There is also a growing trend towards proudly-locally-made (in the US) and socially/environmentally sustainable products. Those who chose to fulfill their own deliveries also have better contribution margins as they avoid a huge portion of the ~40% of sales that retailers charge. The major problem for these kinds of labels is distribution. It's tough to get the word out when you don't have the economies of scale -- hiring a content and marketing squad does not make sense early on.