Challenged by cheap foreign imports, and the impact of the energy crisis, high labour costs and a dwindling skills base, the industry is beginning to splinter and stultify rather than grow and prosper. Add to this the recent surge of luxury labels entering the market catering to the high-end consumer, there should by rights be a middle market that can be easily filled by quality South African designed and manufactured garments - so where is it going wrong?
The South African fashion industry has sorely lacked the strategic and practical guidance and tools to lead it into being a cohesive and profitable contributor to the economy. Over two days, however, Fashion Exchange +27 aims to rectify this by providing essential input and insight into the rapidly changing business of fashion and the key business trends that are affecting the industry globally and on the home-front; connecting local retailers, designers, manufacturers, suppliers and entrepreneurs with some of the world's leading fashion business experts.
The initiative is being spearheaded and driven by international fashion insider, Lucy Bosscher, who has teamed up with leading South African fashion designer, Gavin Rajah. Together they share a passion for the industry from both a local and global perspective, and are well-placed to drive this event, having recognised the requirement for a forum that crosses all aspects of this sector.
Issues that will be addressed by the conference and the attendant workshops will encompass topics such as the rise of fast fashion, the globalization of trends, the consumer demand for ethical fashion and even climate change; all of which are set to have a profound affect on the fashion business over the coming years.
The conference will provide an invaluable behind-the-scenes look at businesses that have succeeded in one of the world's most competitive and challenging industries. Fashion Exchange +27 will also provide a face-to-face networking opportunity with peers from across South Africa, as well as the highest calibre of international experts.
The understanding that most conferences end at the door or the closing gala dinner with little or no support thereafter has prompted Bosscher and Rajah to extend the value of the initiative by offering an "exchange network" for members in a forum that will enable a cross-sharing of ideas, requests for assistance, promotion of wares and capabilities, as well as the ability to conduct exchange internships with international fashion houses and exploit global opportunities.
Conferences, of course, rise and fall on the level of discussion topics to be presented and the calibre of spokespersons; Fashion Exchange +27 will not disappoint with a variety of international heavyweights who, recognising the 'tipping point' of the talent held here, have agreed to speak, inspire, motivate and share their considerable wealth of knowledge with the assembled delegates, who will also be coming from across the continent.
There is no doubt that this is what South Africa requires to firmly place the fashion industry on a sound economic footing with the aim to sustain and grow this sector into a viable and credible employer and contributor to the country's financial future.
For more information, visit: http://www.fashionexchange27.co.za/
