Leveraging Powerful Change in the World Apparel Fashion Chain
The international apparel manufacturing map is being violently redrawn. The pace of change is unprecedented. China is showing its sharp, competitive teeth; regulatory knee-jerk reactions are disrupting supply chains; and apparel manufacturers in Europe are struggling to re-invent themselves. At the same time, consumers’ attitudes towards clothing, as well as their buying patterns, are changing dramatically, driven by declining prices and the increase in disposable fashion. Into this new environment steps the 22nd World Apparel Congress of the International Apparel Federation. Appealing to the entire apparel value chain, its aim is to address these issues and to focus on strategies for harnessing change. The speakers have been drawn from all areas of business, and not just from within the apparel world; and the delegate list will include retailers, consumer organisations, designers & fashion marketers, as well as manufacturers. In short, the Convention offers new insights, inspiring ideas and great networking opportunities.
Letter from the President
We had international experts in world apparel trade, consumer behaviour and fashion education, as speakers. The 22nd World Apparel Congress focused on sourcing and networking opportunities with entrepreneurs from a wide geographical area including, among others the Balkans and Black Sea region and countries from the Mediterranean basin.
I would like to thank all of you that have joined us in Thessaloniki as delegates or speakers and all the IAF community for their support and considerable help.
I look forward to seeing you in Taipei next year.
Vassilis Masselos
President, International Apparel Federation