The Hosiery Association (THA) hosted its Global Legwear Conference and 104th Annual Convention in Hilton Head, South Carolina from April 23-26, 2009, which was attended by one hundred delegates. The convention speakers provided extensive information about worldwide economic issues, legislative developments, and consumer trends. The business sessions were designed to give members critical information necessary to develop effective strategies for today’s challenging global market conditions.

“The legwear market becomes more complex every day,” says Sally Kay, THA’s president and CEO. “Our members recognize that a global perspective is absolutely critical to succeed. The expert opinions and succinct analyses presented at the Annual Convention gave our members exclusive and actionable insights into the market in a very time-effective format.”

The Annual Convention featured guest speakers from the financial, manufacturing, marketing and legislative sectors. The experts shared an overview of the current world economy plus made projections for labour, materials, currencies, duties, transportation, and other supply chain costs both globally and by the key geographic regions of Asia, South America, and Central America. Legislative experts explained new regulations impacting the industry. Consumer experts presented information to help association members take advantage of trends at retail.

“Speaking as a legwear manufacturer, THA’s Annual Convention provided me with a vast amount of vital and timely information that I will use in managing my business,” says Cathy Allen, THA’s chairperson and a vice president at Crescent. “During the three days of the convention, I collected useful economic data, legislative guidance, and consumer knowledge that will definitely help my company take advantage of the opportunities we see in the global market. The return on my time investment was very worthwhile.”

In addition to the Annual Convention, The Hosiery Association provides other educational forums and publications on topics of interest to global legwear manufacturers and suppliers including governmental regulations, consumer and fashion trends, and technical developments. THA also represents its members in Washington, D. C. as well as promotes its members and the industry with the consumer and retail media. The association coordinates philanthropic efforts to maximize the industry’s contributions to those in need.  Details on joining The Hosiery Association are available at www.HosieryAssociation.com.

About The Hosiery Association

Founded in 1905 and headquartered in Charlotte, NC, The Hosiery Association (THA) is the central, trusted source for information and trends that impact the global legwear industry. THA represents legwear manufacturers and their suppliers from around the world and supports them with information, education, legislative advocacy, and global networking. The organization also works to build interest in legwear with retailers and the media on behalf of its members. Additional information and THA membership applications are available at the association’s website, www.HosieryAssociation.com.