The Collections to make a 3-day format debut at WSA

06 Aug '08

6 min read

In addition to hosting international buyers, the DOC was on hand to field inquiries from U.S. brands seeking international distribution. According to Joe English, senior international trade specialist, “We have had more inquiries at this show from U.S. companies seeking to establish or expand their global reach than at any show I can remember, and we at the DOC are pleased to find companies in the footwear industry so vigorously interested in transcending borders to build their businesses.”

Also, returning after its debut last February was the Materials at WSA category, which continued to add a whole new dimension to the floor by rounding out WSA's comprehensive offerings to help service the supply chain needs of manufacturers and retailers. Materials at WSA offered industry leaders access to booths from over 70 exhibitors, educational workshop programs, hands-on demonstrations and an innovative trend area featuring fall/winter '09/'10 forecasts.

The WSA Show's July seminar series was second to none, offering 11 individual seminars and four workshops featuring the best assortment of speakers in the industry including Marshal Cohen (NPD Group), Mercedes Gonzales (Global Purchasing Group), Ellen Campuzano (FashionFACTSFolio), and others.

Another unique facet of the show was the incredibly well-received Style Walk Lounge. The fun, inviting space, sponsored by American Express OPEN, entertained attendees with five live fashion presentations per day, expert commentary from TV personalities Lawrence Zarian (“Live with Regis and Kelly” and “Extra”) and Monica Jackson (Las Vegas' “Fox5 News Live”), and upbeat music from the Playboy Mansion's resident DJ - DJ Crash.

The Style Walk Lounge provided an exciting space with front-and-center exposure for a variety of new and undiscovered labels including Aetrex, Clarks, Blossom Collection, Nina, Grendha, Joan & David, Prima Royale, Lishan International, Florsheim, Toms Shoes, Wanted Groove/VYBE, Koolaburra, Report, Mia Shoes, YOU by Crocs, Ed Hardy, DiKuza and Tara Crystalle.

“Despite the economic challenges at the moment, at the end of the day it's all about the product,” added Stone. “When editors came to talk to me during the show, I asked them what they thought of the product offerings and many told me they saw excitement. I strongly encouraged them to write about it because that's what retailers need so they can excite customers who will buy things that are new…things they don't have.

We are part of an industry that's great at innovation and creativity and the most exciting brands and retailers will make their way through these turbulent times. Everyone who mattered gathered in Las Vegas and I am confident that this industry's energy charged them up. We had numerous exhibitors who had a terrific show due in large part to their outstanding product offerings.”

The WSA Show is gearing up for the next marketplace, which will take place at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center and the Sands Expo Center February 12 – 14, 2009. The Collections at WSA, making its debut in a 3-day format in February '09, will continue to be held in the suites at The Venetian.

The WSA Show

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