Interview with Harry van Dalfsen

On the demand side, the industry has, in general terms, communicated low prices and too much unlimited supply. Apparel has often become a commodity, while it isn’t really. The challenge is to communicate the value of apparel to a consumer in all the available ways along with new technology. On production side, industry is now smacked by the rising prices while its customers are not able or willing to pay more. There is of course an interconnection with the consumer market, but producers face the challenge of improving productivity to counter rising costs.

The theme of the 28th IAF World Apparel Convention in Porto is indispensably in line, with this positive view of entrepreneurial power of the global fashion industry. The main topics of the Convention are: the economic situation across the world, best practices in supply chain optimalisation, technology helping to connect with the customers and the new consumer worldwide. Speakers from major global fashion brands, retailers, experts and global suppliers to the industry will highlight the opportunities offered by new (digital) technology as well as new markets. The Convention is unique in bringing together speakers/delegates from all the continents allowing for a truly global network experience, where they will be speaking about the market opportunities in these continents. Further, it also supports businesses through its network. In addition, IAF builds bridges between people on different continents.