New high-level conference for the leather industry
New for 2008, an all-encompassing conference examining the leather supply chain will take place in May.
The one-day event will offer professionals throughout the sector the chance to learn and share information on how leather makes its way from farmer through to consumers of high end footwear, apparel, accessories, upholstery, etc., with the objective of benefiting the delegates through improved commercial awareness of how others in the chain impact on, and influence, their businesses. This will enable a clearer understanding of the needs of customers and the issues connected with leather and leather products.
Event organisers, World Leather magazine and Leather Wise Ltd, have given the event the title ‘Leather: from Beast to Beauty’. It will take place at the Oxford Belfry on May 15 and will conclude with a Gala Dinner in the evening. The keynote speaker will be acclaimed leather designer Bill Amberg and other speakers will include representatives from leading organisations such as Pittards, Mulberry, NEXT, and Bentley Motors.
As well as representatives of fashion brands and retailers, and their suppliers, an important group of delegates will be 20 lucky fashion, design and technology students from colleges and universities across the UK.
These students will have the opportunity to attend and showcase their work with leather — thanks to the generous support of The Leathersellers’Company, (one of the ancient Livery Companies of the City of London). They will receive a travel bursary, a delegate pass to all conference sessions, a place at the gala dinner and overnight accommodation at the venue.
Publisher of World Leather, Simon Yarwood, said on announcing the details of the conference: "In addition to those in the supply chain having the opportunity to learn from one another, this is a fantastic opportunity for some of the most talented young people in the country to learn more about leather, one of the most beautiful and natural materials they will ever work with. It is also a chance for industry professionals to meet the next generation of designers and technologists and encourage their enthusiasm for leather. We think it could even give some of the fashion brands who attend the chance to sign up some very talented new employees." For more information please email sy@worldtrades.co.uk
