"Closer to Selling" Was a Hit with The Show's Visitors

“Closer to Selling”, the first ever conference to be hosted by Fatex, was a hit with the show’s visitors, many of whom are trying to find their bearings in a fast-changing market. With an overall turnout of 968, the atmosphere at the show was calm but industrious.

The Closer to Selling sourcing symposium was a driving force from day one of the show, attracting large numbers. Devoted to the latest industry news and forecasts, the event was a sellout.

The talks, led by a first-class panel of sourcing experts, were attended by over 150 buyers from across the sector, avid for information on new sourcing practices and regulations: meeting consumer demand; are there any new ways to approach sourcing?

If so, where and what should businesses be sourcing in future years? It was very clear throughout the afternoon that market demands are a top priority for buyers.

Guest speakers, including representatives from Pierre Cardin Jeanswear, juststyle.com, Kurt Salmon, Michaelis & Profuomo, Nash Int., BTI, Modint and the International Apparel Federation, shared their professional experience, key market figures, recipes for stress-free and efficient sourcing, and a broad outlook on the future of sourcing.

The show welcomed 968 visitors – fewer than in 2013 – and gave priority to those visiting exclusively to do business, launch projects, follow up or chase up orders, or simply browse the show’s offer.

With a very different set-up to last year’s show, FATEX took place from 3 to 5 July, opening its doors a day ahead of the other fashion events held at Porte de Versailles and closing at the busiest time of the weekend.

It was therefore unable to benefit fully from the synergy between the events, as it did in 2013. The lower visitor numbers are also a reflection of the tough economic climate, and sweeping changes in the sourcing landscape, in particular the changing role of China.