America’s Future
Dear Friends and Partners,
We hope your loved ones and all members of your communities are healthy and safe.
Together, we live in troubling times with the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) influencing every part of our daily lives and businesses.
The fashion industry already faced huge issues before the start of the pandemic: supply chain challenges, profitability, overproduction, struggle with correct sizing, and environmental unsustainability.
The fashion industry is currently responsible for 10% of all of the humanities' carbon emissions, is the second-largest consumer of the world's water supply, and pollutes the oceans with microplastics.
On top of all of this, business leaders worldwide grapple now with the COVID-19 pandemic.
Of course, the health and well-being of their employees and customers is their top priority.
Some apparel and fashion companies have already put their assets to good use during the crisis, by turning around their factories to make face masks or hand sanitizer, donating products and services to healthcare workers, or helping employees find temporary roles with companies that are hiring.
But how long can this situation continue?
Which brings us to our topic: America’s Future
(Our panel discussion about the future of the American Fashion Industry.)
We want to help to ensure that the fashion industry and your business can survive and thrive after this unprecedented era.
In North America alone, the apparel, fashion, and beauty industry together generate approximately $600 billion in annual revenue and employ more than four million people.
Apparel and fashion companies must act quickly to secure business continuity, minimize downside for the latter half of 2020, and get ahead of business-model changes that may be necessary coming out of this disruption.
In America’s Future, we have invited five recognized Captains of Industry to share their thoughts, to help stimulate your mind and adaptation process. Each captain is coming from a different background bringing their own unique approach and point of view to these challenges. Together we strive to give you some guidance, new ideas or maybe some extra grants you may not be aware of.
Join Us
John Fijen
Managing Director
TC2 Labs
2500 Reliance Ave
Apex NC 27539
www.tc2.com
Source: McKinsey Company
We hope your loved ones and all members of your communities are healthy and safe.
Together, we live in troubling times with the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) influencing every part of our daily lives and businesses.
The fashion industry already faced huge issues before the start of the pandemic: supply chain challenges, profitability, overproduction, struggle with correct sizing, and environmental unsustainability.
The fashion industry is currently responsible for 10% of all of the humanities' carbon emissions, is the second-largest consumer of the world's water supply, and pollutes the oceans with microplastics.
On top of all of this, business leaders worldwide grapple now with the COVID-19 pandemic.
Of course, the health and well-being of their employees and customers is their top priority.
Some apparel and fashion companies have already put their assets to good use during the crisis, by turning around their factories to make face masks or hand sanitizer, donating products and services to healthcare workers, or helping employees find temporary roles with companies that are hiring.
But how long can this situation continue?
Which brings us to our topic: America’s Future
(Our panel discussion about the future of the American Fashion Industry.)
We want to help to ensure that the fashion industry and your business can survive and thrive after this unprecedented era.
In North America alone, the apparel, fashion, and beauty industry together generate approximately $600 billion in annual revenue and employ more than four million people.
Apparel and fashion companies must act quickly to secure business continuity, minimize downside for the latter half of 2020, and get ahead of business-model changes that may be necessary coming out of this disruption.
In America’s Future, we have invited five recognized Captains of Industry to share their thoughts, to help stimulate your mind and adaptation process. Each captain is coming from a different background bringing their own unique approach and point of view to these challenges. Together we strive to give you some guidance, new ideas or maybe some extra grants you may not be aware of.
Join Us
John Fijen
Managing Director
TC2 Labs
2500 Reliance Ave
Apex NC 27539
www.tc2.com
Source: McKinsey Company
Agenda
- What is the future of Fashion and the industry?
- Role of America (inland & in the world)
- Explore factors & solutions to make the turnaround
- Available Government support
Location
Zoom
Date & Time
October 15th, 2020,
12:00 PM (EST) - 2:30 PM (EST)
12:00 PM (EST) - 2:30 PM (EST)
Schedule
12:00 PM EST
Welcome
Opening the event and introducing the speakers.
By speaker and moderator Mike Fralix
By speaker and moderator Mike Fralix
12:10 pM EST
What is the Future of Fashion and the industry
By Trevor Little
Professor of Textile And Apparel Management
Wilson College of Textiles at NC State University
Professor of Textile And Apparel Management
Wilson College of Textiles at NC State University
12:30 pMEST
Role of America (inland & in the world)
By Will Duncan
President
SEAMS
President
SEAMS
12:50 pM EST
Explore factors & solutions to make the turnaround (Part 1)
By Mike Fralix
CEO
TC2 Labs LLC
CEO
TC2 Labs LLC
1:10 PM EST
Explore factors & solutions to make the turnaround (Part 2)
By Anastasia Vouyouka
CEO
Telestia
CEO
Telestia
1:40 PM EST
Available Government support
By Glenn Jackman
Senior International Trade Manager
The Economic Development Partnership
Senior International Trade Manager
The Economic Development Partnership
2:00 PM EST
Open Discusion
Moderator Mike Fralix
Speakers
Mike Fralix
CEO
TC2 Labs LLC
Professor of Textile And Apparel Management
Trevor Little
NC State University
Will Duncan
President
SEAMS
Anastasia Vouyouka
CEO
Telestia
Glenn Jackman
SENIOR MANAGER
The Economic Development Partnership
Mike Fralix
Dr. Mike Fralix is an experienced Chief Executive Officer with a demonstrated history of working in the apparel and fashion industry. He is skilled in Trend Analysis, Technology Development, Manufacturing, Operations Management and Supply Chain Strategies. He has worked in a variety of capacities at [TC]² and has led initiatives to develop next-generation supply chain technologies and worked with companies to implement currently available technologies and business processes.
In addition, Dr. Fralix is an internationally recognized speaker and offers expertise on a variety of topics. These include 3D product development, sizing for fit, production scheduling, industrial engineering, ergonomics, full package production, simulation, virtual dressing, online shopping, additive manufacturing, re-shoring, lean systems, sustainable technologies/waterless coloring, and the digital supply chain.
He holds Bachelor of Science degrees in Applied Mathematics and Philosophy from North Carolina State University, a master’s degree in Business Administration from Duke University, and a Doctorate in Textile Technology Management from North Carolina State University. In 2009 he was appointed an Adjunct Associate Professor at N.C. State University and was named Distinguished Alumnus of the Year by the College of Textiles for 2012.
Dr. Fralix is also active in several industry organizations. He is a member of the Board of Directors of: AAFA-American Apparel & Footwear Assoc., SPESA-Sewn Products Equipment and Suppliers of the Americas (Past Chairman), IAF-International Apparel Federation (Chair of Technical Committee), AAFA Education Foundation (Current President), YMA-Fashion Scholarship Fund, the Georgia Soft Goods Education Foundation (Past President) and TAPAC-Textile and Apparel Programs Accreditation Commission (Industry Liaison). He was recognized as a Thought Leader at the OIA (Outdoor Industry Association) Thought Leader’s Dinner in January 2013.
In addition, Dr. Fralix is an internationally recognized speaker and offers expertise on a variety of topics. These include 3D product development, sizing for fit, production scheduling, industrial engineering, ergonomics, full package production, simulation, virtual dressing, online shopping, additive manufacturing, re-shoring, lean systems, sustainable technologies/waterless coloring, and the digital supply chain.
He holds Bachelor of Science degrees in Applied Mathematics and Philosophy from North Carolina State University, a master’s degree in Business Administration from Duke University, and a Doctorate in Textile Technology Management from North Carolina State University. In 2009 he was appointed an Adjunct Associate Professor at N.C. State University and was named Distinguished Alumnus of the Year by the College of Textiles for 2012.
Dr. Fralix is also active in several industry organizations. He is a member of the Board of Directors of: AAFA-American Apparel & Footwear Assoc., SPESA-Sewn Products Equipment and Suppliers of the Americas (Past Chairman), IAF-International Apparel Federation (Chair of Technical Committee), AAFA Education Foundation (Current President), YMA-Fashion Scholarship Fund, the Georgia Soft Goods Education Foundation (Past President) and TAPAC-Textile and Apparel Programs Accreditation Commission (Industry Liaison). He was recognized as a Thought Leader at the OIA (Outdoor Industry Association) Thought Leader’s Dinner in January 2013.
Will Duncan
Chief Executive Officer, WDA & Executive Director, SEAMS Association
Will Duncan is a recognized speaker and fashion industry consultant with over 35 years’ experience in plant engineering, team-based manufacturing, and process improvement in the sewn products industry. He is skilled in facilitating culture change, team building and process alignment for brands, retailers and manufacturers. Will has led and successfully implemented a large number of lean manufacturing initiatives and started industry focused training programs in countries around the world. Throughout his 30 years’ as an industry consultant, he assisted many companies throughout Central America, South America, Mexico, and the US to improve their operations and processes ranging from the Board Room to the Factory Floor. With, significant emphasis in Product Development, Cutting, Sewing, and Garment Finishing.
Will also serves as Executive Director for the SEAMS Association where his firm is responsible for all management, marketing, and administrative functions. SEAMS is the Association and Voice of the U.S. Sewn Products Industry for over 50 years consisting of more than 200 of America’s foremost fashion brands, retailers, manufacturers, and textile providers. Supercharging the American Supply Chain, SEAMS is the most relevant force and go-to resource shaping the growth and resurgence of MADE IN AMERICA.
Will has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Management from North Carolina State University, is a former member of [TC]²’s Executive Board, was Director of Education and a Board Member of SEAMS and served as Chairman of the Human Resources Leadership Council of the American Apparel Footwear Association.
Will Duncan is a recognized speaker and fashion industry consultant with over 35 years’ experience in plant engineering, team-based manufacturing, and process improvement in the sewn products industry. He is skilled in facilitating culture change, team building and process alignment for brands, retailers and manufacturers. Will has led and successfully implemented a large number of lean manufacturing initiatives and started industry focused training programs in countries around the world. Throughout his 30 years’ as an industry consultant, he assisted many companies throughout Central America, South America, Mexico, and the US to improve their operations and processes ranging from the Board Room to the Factory Floor. With, significant emphasis in Product Development, Cutting, Sewing, and Garment Finishing.
Will also serves as Executive Director for the SEAMS Association where his firm is responsible for all management, marketing, and administrative functions. SEAMS is the Association and Voice of the U.S. Sewn Products Industry for over 50 years consisting of more than 200 of America’s foremost fashion brands, retailers, manufacturers, and textile providers. Supercharging the American Supply Chain, SEAMS is the most relevant force and go-to resource shaping the growth and resurgence of MADE IN AMERICA.
Will has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Management from North Carolina State University, is a former member of [TC]²’s Executive Board, was Director of Education and a Board Member of SEAMS and served as Chairman of the Human Resources Leadership Council of the American Apparel Footwear Association.
Trevor Little
Trevor J. Little is a Professor of Textile And Apparel Management in the Wilson College of Textiles at NC State University. He graduated from the University of Leeds, England with B.S. and Ph.D. degrees in Textiles and has worked with CSIRO in Australia, Philadelphia Wilson College of Textiles and Science (now Philadelphia University), Danskin Inc., and NC State University since 1984. His research interests include functionally tailored textiles, nanofibers, developing and delivering products that meet current consumer demand, automated garment design, digital printing, and electro textiles.
RESEARCH
The business of fashion worldwide employs an estimated 18 million people engaged in the production, design, and development of fashion. Currently, in the USA, over one million people are employed in the retailing of fashion and about 200,000 employed in fashion apparel production across the USA. Research for the fashion industry covers many different disciplines in both the technologies and management of manufacturing. An important aspect of fashion is how to design a continuous stream of new products is the least possible time so that the consumer has an increasing selection of product. Technology plays a crucial role to assist the designer in 2D, 3D, correct fit, pleasing drape, physiological and psychological comfort, functionally tailored performance, and aesthetics. The ability to prepare prototypes and samples rapidly often provide a competitive advantage. Sourcing and logistics further enhance a firm’s ability to attract repeat business. My research interests include manufacturing and management, new product development, design for manufacturability, mass-customization, simulation, technology development, and economic competitiveness.
ACADEMIC DEGREES
Ph.D. Department of Textile Industries, University of Leeds, 1974
B.Sc. Textile Industries (Hons), University of Leeds, 1971
B.Sc. Textile Industries, University of Leeds, 1970
RESEARCH
The business of fashion worldwide employs an estimated 18 million people engaged in the production, design, and development of fashion. Currently, in the USA, over one million people are employed in the retailing of fashion and about 200,000 employed in fashion apparel production across the USA. Research for the fashion industry covers many different disciplines in both the technologies and management of manufacturing. An important aspect of fashion is how to design a continuous stream of new products is the least possible time so that the consumer has an increasing selection of product. Technology plays a crucial role to assist the designer in 2D, 3D, correct fit, pleasing drape, physiological and psychological comfort, functionally tailored performance, and aesthetics. The ability to prepare prototypes and samples rapidly often provide a competitive advantage. Sourcing and logistics further enhance a firm’s ability to attract repeat business. My research interests include manufacturing and management, new product development, design for manufacturability, mass-customization, simulation, technology development, and economic competitiveness.
ACADEMIC DEGREES
Ph.D. Department of Textile Industries, University of Leeds, 1974
B.Sc. Textile Industries (Hons), University of Leeds, 1971
B.Sc. Textile Industries, University of Leeds, 1970
Anastasia Vouyouka
Anastasia Vouyouka, FCFI, CText FTI, is a clothing technology expert, author of many books on pattern technology, for perfect fit and style design, since the
80s.Fellow of the Textile Institute, UK, and member of the council the last couple of years.
- BA English Language & Literature of English, Thessaloniki, Greece,
- Business Administration course, City of London Polytechnic, England,
- Pattern Cutting & Fashion Design, Italy
She is the director of the Fashion Express Learning College in London, which applies the multi-awarded, and innovative online Telestia Training. These include Clothing and Fashion courses, that are used, in innovative institutions. all over the world while they satisfy students, teachers, and particularly design studios. Has been the coordinator and IP owner for the transfer of the above training content and methodology approach, into interactive multimedia high technology applications. (8 eight titles),
the Telestia online methodology, plus the creation of a highly sophisticated Fashion & Technology CAD, the Telestia Creator.
Most of the above were realized with the co-funding from the EU and the strong and active cooperation from British, German, French universities, and relevant organizations, some of which are MMU, KIAD, Newham College, Skillfast,(UK). AFPA (France), Albstadt Singmaringen (Germany)
They received European and International Prizes & Awards, as creations that support the uptake of the much-needed skills in the strongly outsourced manufacturing sector.
She has been researching and promoting the concept of sustainable design and the teaching of applying it to young designers, for decades.
80s.Fellow of the Textile Institute, UK, and member of the council the last couple of years.
- BA English Language & Literature of English, Thessaloniki, Greece,
- Business Administration course, City of London Polytechnic, England,
- Pattern Cutting & Fashion Design, Italy
She is the director of the Fashion Express Learning College in London, which applies the multi-awarded, and innovative online Telestia Training. These include Clothing and Fashion courses, that are used, in innovative institutions. all over the world while they satisfy students, teachers, and particularly design studios. Has been the coordinator and IP owner for the transfer of the above training content and methodology approach, into interactive multimedia high technology applications. (8 eight titles),
the Telestia online methodology, plus the creation of a highly sophisticated Fashion & Technology CAD, the Telestia Creator.
Most of the above were realized with the co-funding from the EU and the strong and active cooperation from British, German, French universities, and relevant organizations, some of which are MMU, KIAD, Newham College, Skillfast,(UK). AFPA (France), Albstadt Singmaringen (Germany)
They received European and International Prizes & Awards, as creations that support the uptake of the much-needed skills in the strongly outsourced manufacturing sector.
She has been researching and promoting the concept of sustainable design and the teaching of applying it to young designers, for decades.
Glenn Jackman
Glenn Jackman is the Senior International Trade Manager for the Textile and Marine Sectors for the statewide economic development organization for North Carolina, the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina (EDPNC) focuses on recruiting new businesses to the state, supporting the needs of existing businesses, connecting exporters to global customers, helping small business owners get their start, and attracting tourists and visitors from all over the world.
North Carolina Department of Commerce / International Trade Division / International Business Development Trade Manager for the textile, apparel, hosiery, sporting goods, and textile machinery sector of the North Carolina Department of Commerce International Trade Division. This Division is responsible for developing overseas business opportunities for North Carolina- based firms in the textile industry.
Mr. Jackman previously served as the President and CEO of Holiday Sportswear, a Florida-based apparel manufacturing company, as well as the President of the Florida Manufactures Association.
Glenn is a graduate of Miami Dade College and has previously returned to the University of Miami for post-graduate courses in international trade and marketing.
North Carolina Department of Commerce / International Trade Division / International Business Development Trade Manager for the textile, apparel, hosiery, sporting goods, and textile machinery sector of the North Carolina Department of Commerce International Trade Division. This Division is responsible for developing overseas business opportunities for North Carolina- based firms in the textile industry.
Mr. Jackman previously served as the President and CEO of Holiday Sportswear, a Florida-based apparel manufacturing company, as well as the President of the Florida Manufactures Association.
Glenn is a graduate of Miami Dade College and has previously returned to the University of Miami for post-graduate courses in international trade and marketing.
