"We are thrilled to see Australia’s fashion trade embracing this event with strong registration numbers. It’s a unique sourcing event that provides an exceptional opportunity to improve or diversify their supply chain and product offer, compare their production capability and costs, or even produce their own label. Australia’s geographic location means extensive travel is usually required to explore international supply and manufacturing options. International Sourcing Expo Australia and the co-located Footwear & Leather Show Australia brings the world close to home for our local industry," Julie Holt, exhibition director, IEC Group Pty Ltd, organiser said.

Attracting sourcing managers for Australia’s large fashion retailers, niche fashion brands, online outlets and designers, the show allows buyers to meet with more reputable suppliers than they could physically visit on an overseas buying trip. Exhibitors are drawn from India, China, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Hong Kong, Fiji, Indonesia, Vietnam, South Africa, Taiwan, Turkey, Australia, South Korea, Malaysia and Singapore.

Representing the growing leather industry in India and showcasing the quality of the nation’s products, Council for Leather Exports India (CLE) is placed to further its position in the Australian market with the largest pavilion at Footwear and Leather Show Australia for the third year running.

''India is a strong and established player in global leather trade and I see a lot of potential to enhance bilateral trade in Footwear & Leather Products with Australia. With ongoing negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement, bilateral trade between India and Australia will be greatly facilitated and is bound to grow. The Footwear & Leather Show with a Buyer Seller Meet dedicated to CLE, is expected to provide a novel and excellent platform for Indian Companies to showcase their products to Australian Buyers," Mukhtharul Amin, chairman, Council for Leather Exports, India, said.

A three-day global sourcing seminar programme led by industry experts will provide a comprehensive program of learning for both exhibitors and visitors to the show. From international denim trends, expert sourcing tips, legal information, ethical sourcing advice, help for fashion start-ups, international fashion and footwear insights and more, the seminar series is a must-attend for all industry professionals.

"The highly popular seminars offer show-goers insights on fashion trends and best practice sourcing. Led by expert presenters, this year we’re offering more sessions with an increase of around 30 per cent to the programme," Marie Kinsella, CEO, IEC Group Pty Ltd said.

"Seminars focusing on providing information about the Australian market will also be on offer to exhibitors. The knowledge these seminars deliver is immensely useful to both industry suppliers and sourcing managers because it allows them to understand each other’s needs and build better business relationships," added Kinsella.

The 3^rd edition of Australia’s only dedicated footwear and leather show and the 9^th edition of International Sourcing Expo Australia will introduce an online business matching programme at the three-day trade event to fast-track the buyer/seller experience.

"We want to ensure there is every opportunity for exhibitors to make valuable connections while they are in Melbourne and we see global business matching as an efficient and effective way to do this and reach more interested Australian buyers," added Holt.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk – India