For brands and businesses in the fashion and textiles sector, keeping up to date with industry trends, technological advancements and new legislation can be challenging. “There are significant shifts in the fashion and textile landscape, including the drive towards sustainability, transparency and circularity, as well as the emergence of ethical business practices that protect communities and natural resources. To succeed and thrive, industry players have to understand the impact of these shifts, as well as the adoption of new technology such as artificial intelligence, and new legislation,” comments Marie Kinsella, CEO of the International Expo group – the organisers of the Global Sourcing Expo, taking place from 19-21 November 2024 at the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre. 

To support brands and businesses, the upcoming Global Sourcing Expo Seminar program is set to feature an impressive lineup of speakers, who will share their vast experience and knowledge on topics ranging from clothing recycling to new regulations and AI.

Seminar attendees can look forward to engaging and informative sessions that address the most pressing issues in the fashion and textile industry today. 

Here's a closer look at some of the key speakers and their contributions to the seminar program:

Paul Zahra, CEO, Australian Retailers Association 

With a distinguished career spanning four decades, Paul Zahra is a leading figure in Australian retail. As the CEO of the Australian Retailers Association, Paul has been at the helm of Australia’s oldest and most diverse retail body, representing a $400 billion sector. His session, "Decoding The Brave New World of Retail: How Disruptions Have Sparked Game-Changing Innovations," will offer invaluable insights into how recent disruptions have reshaped the retail landscape and sparked innovative solutions.

Belinda Paul, founder and director, RCYCL Pty Ltd 

As a veteran of the fashion industry, Belinda Paul brings 25 years of experience and a passion for sustainability. She founded RCYCL to address the overwhelming statistics of textile waste and create actionable strategies to make a difference. Belinda will lead the seminar, "Empowering Consumers to Drive Change", alongside panelists from eBay Fashion, Salvos Stores, and Seamless Clothing Stewardship Scheme, discussing how consumers can be a driving force in the sustainability movement.

Elizabeth Park, industry consultant, Fashion True Futures 

Elizabeth Park, the founder of Fashion True Futures, is an expert in fashion sustainability with over 20 years of experience. Her seminar, "Regulations and Realities – Navigating Regulatory Shifts and Consumer Demands in Fashion", will guide businesses through the evolving regulatory landscape, helping them build sustainable and compliant practices. Elizabeth’s expertise in ethical sourcing and sustainable supply chains will provide attendees with the tools they need to future-proof their operations.

Professor Alice Payne, dean, School of Fashion & Textiles, RMIT University 

A leading voice in sustainable fashion, Professor Alice Payne’s research focuses on the environmental and social sustainability of clothing. She will share her findings from a national survey on how Australians acquire, use, and dispose of their clothing. This session is essential for those interested in understanding consumer behavior and its impact on the fashion industry.

Rick Lambell, founder and CEO, Beyond Sustainable Retail Group (BSRG) 

Rick Lambell is a specialist in sustainable retail with over 20 years of experience. His session on "Net Zero and Scope 3 GHG Emissions – How to Get Started and Deliver Results", will explore practical strategies for businesses aiming to reduce their carbon footprint. With a background in leading sustainability programs for major retailers like Kmart Group, Rick’s insights are not to be missed.

“These speakers, along with many others, will provide Seminar attendees with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate the complexities of today’s fashion and textile industry,” notes Marie. “The Global Sourcing Expo Melbourne is an unparalleled opportunity to learn from industry leaders and stay ahead in a rapidly changing market.” 

Fostering global connections

Seminar attendees will also have the opportunity to browse the Expo, and connect with over 900 exhibitors from 20 countries, showcasing an expansive range of apparel, footwear, textiles and homeware products. “This is the perfect space to meet with suppliers and manufacturers from around the world, and make those all-important business connections,” adds Marie. 

Note: The content of this press release has not been edited by Fibre2Fashion staff.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (HU)