SAFSA a Hit in New York City
Global sourcing executives listening to SAFSA sourcing approach at the SAFSA seminar New York
SAFSA launched in New York
Sixteen major U.S. brands/retailers, including seven SAFSA priority targets, sent senior sourcing executives or higher to attend the SAFSA New York Seminar, July 26. All delegates remained engaged throughout the four hours’ worth of presentations, comments, and questions.
Five presenters gave compelling arguments as to why the SAFSA model could improve the sourcing capabilities and eventual bottom line of the participants companies. VALUE Project Director Mike Blakeley stressed that SAFSA “is the only game in town” as it relates to a formal organization that is focused strictly on advancing the competitiveness of Southeast Asia as a full package supplier. SAFSA Executive Committee member Jeff Streader emphasized that although many brands and retailers have operations in Southeast Asia, “it’s impossible to know every factory and their capabilities. SAFSA provides a mechanism to work with pre-qualified factories.”
The seminar also included a presentation from Charles Yeo of Nan Yang Fabric Co. in Thailand, a SAFSA member. Mr. Yeo’s presentation captured the attention of the sourcing executives, especially when he spoke how as a fabric mill, Nan Yang has little opportunity for interface with the final client but through the VVF model they can actively participant in discussions with the garment factory and final client to influence the success of the product. SAFSA partner SGS not only helped to host the event but Ms. Katherine Stein provided details on the Social and Services audit required by VVF members.
Finally, Steve Lamar, Executive Vice President of the American Apparel and Footwear Association (AAFA), gave an overview of the trade policy issues between Southeast Asia and the U.S. market, highlighting potential of the Transpacific Partnership (TPP).
The companies that attended the event were:
Brooks Brothers
Garan
I.C. Isaacs & Co. (Marithe + Francois Girbaud)
Jordache
Kellwood
Komar
Macy’s
Men’s Wearhouse
Outerstuff
Perry Ellis
Ralph Lauren
Saks Fifth Ave
Sara Max
Sun Capital
Urban Outfitters
Weatherproof
“Now the real work begins to get these companies to join SAFSA,” said Mr. Blakeley.
Each presentation can be found below.
Jeff Streader – Sourcing Perspective
Charles Yeo – Nan Yang Fabric Co
