Exclusive Fashion Brand Deals at Retail

Macy's and Tommy Hilfiger U.S.A have arranged an exclusive alliance in September 2008, which leaves Macy's as the only U.S department store offering the company's men's sportswear and women's sportswear.

Kohl's will be an exclusive U.S retailer for the Dana Buchman brand designed by Claiborne Inc.

J.C. Penney Co. is alone with the exclusive for the American Living collection from Polo Ralph Lauren Corp. They have also developed labels with Nicole Miller.

If we researched this subject further, I am sure we would find that numerous retailers have "exclusive" deals in place. I have a few questions...

Are the exclusive deals between designers and retailers on the rise?
Is this trend good for the clothing stores?
Is this trend good for designers?
Is this trend good for consumers?