The International Apparel Federation (IAF), organising the event, which is set to take place from 13-15 October, has announced that the conference day on 14 October is rapidly filling up with top speakers.

In addition to Christoph Auhagen, CBO of Hugo Boss, who was earlier announced as the keynote speaker, the event will host other great names, like Gordon Richardson, the creative director of Topman, Jan Hilger, COO of Ahlers (Pierre Cardin, Baldessarini), Leyla Ertur, Country Manager Production, Europe Region of H&M, and Murat Akkun, CSR Country Manager of Inditex.

International cooperation

The Convention location, the Hilton Bosphorus Istanbul, ensures a grand setting for the convention, organisers report. With visitors from typically over 20 countries, Istanbul will be the place where the global fashion industry meets.

Many IAF members and non-members have already registered to attend. Along with event partner Turkish Clothing Manufacturers Association (TGSD) organisers are preparing an excellent event.

“IAF is creating bridges between continents. We aim to provide maximum value to our members in international cooperation,” commented Rahul Mehta, President of IAF. “Manufacturers, retailers, brands, solution providers and associations are working together to improve our industry together. That is why we are hosting this year’s convention in Istanbul, close to the bridge that is literally connecting the continents.”

Making it better

The theme this year is Making it better. The industry faces multiple challenges, which combined create downward pressure on clothing’s value perception of consumers.

The IAF World Fashion Convention will look into the future and highlight the current positive developments that are rejuvenating and strengthening the industry. The event will look at investments in local skills, investments in CSR and sustainability, in products, in supply chain management and in marketing.

Future of the industry

The 15th of October offers a matchmaking programme connecting delegates to the Turkish garment industry and specialized workshops.

During the IAF General Assembly, a unique discussion session on the future of the industry will take place. This session will be lead by World Bank’s lead specialist Emiliano Duch, who was also a keynote speaker at last year’s Convention held in Medellín, Colombia.

Industry Association Executives and Board Members from major associations from five continents will be in the panel. World Bank is collaborating with the IAF on forming a clearer picture of what are the most successful strategies and policies to create a stronger fashion industry globally.

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