Global supply chain seminar

The Industry Forum Services taking place on the 19th November 2009 in London will show what changes retailers need to make to their sourcing strategies in this recessionary climate. This will be further outlined by Sue Butler, senior manager, Kurt Salmon Associates (KSA), in the opening presentation at a seminar on Global Sourcing Skills and Supply Chains being organised by Industry Forum Services.

Butler comments: “Until recently, the primary focus of sourcing has been on increasing the mix of direct imported products to enhance margins. Advanced retailers, however, are now concentrating on the next level of costs: cutting spending on buying offices, optimising the mix of source countries and standardising processes and fabrics/material.”

Butler further explains: “This requires a shift towards a more holistic supply chain-orientated approach. However, to achieve this necessitates a greater exchange of information between retailers, brands and manufacturers, as well as appropriate technologies, a shift in mindset and an incentive system that can influence the behaviour of all the supply chain partners.”

The seminar will also incorporate workshops, led by Ken Watson of Industry Forum Services and Liz Leffman of Clothesource. Among the topics will be new trade rules, the economies of developing countries that are shaping the apparel trade and critical factors in developing effective supply chains. Interactive activities, designed to challenge sourcing decisions, and how to complete the programme.