Clothing and textiles forum

‘Flip-flops or fleeces? Weathering an unpredictable fashion climate’ is the title of the ASBCI Annual Industry Conference 2008. At the forum, fashion suppliers and industry experts will unite to discuss the consequences of un-seasonal weather conditions and raw material shortages are causing on the global clothing supply chain. The conference will be held on Tuesday 20th May 2008 at the Dunchurch Park Hotel, in Dunchurch, Rugby.

Out of industry specialists from the Royal Meteorological Society, the Bank of Scotland and Parliament will join speakers from Marks & Spencer, Tesco, Patagonia eco-brand, Kurt Salmon Associates, polyester fiber supplier Reliance, the Soil Association and ethical designer of high street fashion Julia Smith. The conference will address such crucial issues as global weather patterns for 2008, oil and steel shortages, cost and eco-effective sourcing strategies, alternative fibres to polyester, sustainable retailing and packing innovations, organic supply chains and ethical designs for the high street.

The conference will open under the informed guidance of Julie King, the day conference proceedings chairman and head of department fashion and textiles, at Leicester’s De Montfort University. Other speakers include Professor Paul Hardaker, chief executive of the Royal Meteorological Society; Annette Browne, head of buying women’s casual and knitwear, Marks & Spencer and Lord Peter Melchett, policy director, Soil Association Certification Limited. The one-day conference is £195 +VAT for ASBCI members and £255 +VAT for non-members.

Formed in 1992 the ASBCI is widely regarded as the most active and diverse clothing industry forum. Its annual industry conference and dinner is regarded at the conference for suppliers throughout the UK clothing supply chain. As part of its role as industry watchdog the ASBCI informs and advises members of new European standards and has liaised with government bodies to create and implement a nationwide technical training programme for the clothing and allied industries.

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