CFA Panelists Discuss Key Issues
The California Fashion Association hosted a series of panel discussions on hot-button issues affecting the industry during the April 28–30 run of new textile trade show GlobalTex at the Los Angeles Convention Center.
Ilse Metchek, president of the CFA, moderated both panels.
On April 28, panelists tackled topics as broad-ranging as the new CPSIA rules for childrenswear, U.S. Customs’ 10+2 requirements for importers, intellectual-property issues and strategies for success in a troubled economy.
Panelists included Robert Krieger, president of freight forwarder and customs brokerage Krieger Worldwide; attorney Elon Pollack; Diane Hileman, co-owner of retail consultancy Sperling Hileman; and Alison A. Nieder, executive editor of California Apparel News.
Members of the April 29 panel discussed what the economy might look like when it turns around. Panelists included Janine Blain, vice president of the Doneger Group/Directives West retail reporting and buying office; David Reza, senior vice president and partner at Milberg Factors; David Ryan, director of West Coast operations with NGC Software; and Brian Weitman, president and chief executive of Security Textiles and QST.
Blain, who scouts California for clients that range from upscale boutiques to big-box stores, said brands have their work cut out for them as they face greater competition from private-label retailing. “Right now it is less about brand and more than ever about product and value,” she said. “There is a shift in retail away from high-end contemporary [and more to trend-right pieces]. Pedigree means very little right now.”
Reza agreed, adding that brands should focus on creating excitement. “Now is not the time to be offering commodity items,” he said. “Brands have to be nimble and become a valuable resource for customers. Speed to market is a very important metric today.”
Even in a down economy, there are bright spots in the fashion market, Metchek said. Big-box retailers and those focusing on young buyers are faring better than most. Denim, outerwear, tights and dresses are seeing steady sales. “I’m bullish on L.A. and the role we play in the fashion industry,” Weitman said. “If you are going to make a garment in the U.S., Los Angeles is the place to do it.”—Erin Barajas
