The joint IAF and SPESA World Fashion Convention is taking place on 22-25 October in Philadelphia, US. Credit: Shutterstock.

The IAF and SPESA World Fashion Convention, which is taking place in Philadelphia, US on 22-25 October, aims to educate delegates on the current trends and issues impacting the fashion industry.

It will examine what makes both leading and emerging sourcing regions unique as well as the supply chain challenges and solutions needed for today’s volatile market.

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The two-day conference features a jam-packed schedule with the first day giving delegates the opportunity to network.

The US Department of Commerce will provide an update on the US textiles and apparel industry and a keynote from former VF Corporation and Tapestry executive Tom Glaser will offer insights on what the industry can expect to see in 2024.

Live panel discussions will range from what’s new in made in US manufacturing to everything you need to know when manufacturing in emerging markets such as Sub-Saharan Africa and Central America. Plus, there will be a market update on Türkiye as a key sourcing destination by analysis company McKinsey & Company.

The conference organisers hope that through these opening discussions, the global fashion industry will have the chance to hear more about what makes each of these locations unique, as well as the challenges and solutions that can be found across borders.

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The second day of the conference will focus on the main industry-wide challenges and opportunities ranging from circularity and transparency through to digitalisation. The hope is delegates will leave with a better idea of how to create a smarter and more resilient supply chain.

A fireside chat with textile manufacturer GK Foundation’s chairman Yusuf Amdani will discuss how to bring sustainable business to fragile economies.

There will also be panel discussions focused on creating more effective, productive and resilient supply chains and how using digitalisation can help the industry move forward.

Legislation is a topic on everyone’s lips right now so a panel discussion on legislating good behaviour will tap into the due diligence laws on both sides of the Atlantic and the impact they may have on supply chain processes.

Dr Sheng Lu, associate professor at the University of Delaware’s Department of fashion and Apparel Studies, will share his global market perspectives and American Apparel and Footwear Association (AAFA)’s Steve Lamar will provide his insights on digital labelling.

Accountability and transparency from fashion brands, retailers, manufacturers, and suppliers will also be discussed as well as how AI, data and imagery can offer smart and practical solutions for the industry today.

Finally, industry associations the Australian Fashion Council and SPESA as well as global initiatives Aii and Circ will discuss what really works when it comes to tackling climate action and circularity within the fashion supply chain.