DHL has delivered a mentoring session to the finalists of Fashion Fringe 2011, the initiative for up and coming fashion designers set up by fashion commentator and creative director Colin McDowell.The session was designed to offer the designers information about how to run a fashion label and turn it into a successful business.
DHL offered an explanation of the global supply chain, including information about importing and exporting regulations for accessories, textiles and restricted commodities.
It also highlighted key points about importing and exporting materials and accessories for production, including international shipping, freight regulations and insurance; how to set-up an e-commerce operation, including managing consumer interactions through different channels; and multi-channel fulfilment including branding, pricing, stock management, delivery and returns.
Sue Perry-Whitehead, director of consumer products and retail sales at
DHL Express UK, said: “Fashion is one of the most competitive creative industries in the world; the topics discussed in DHL’s workshop should provide the finalists of Fashion Fringe with valuable advice around topics that they may not have considered previously.”
The designer selected as the winner of Fashion Fringe will receive a two-year development package, which includes a mixture of funding, business advice, long-term mentoring and an equipped studio at Somerset House, to set up and sustain their business.
Colin McDowell, creative director of Fashion Fringe said: “There is enormous creative talent in the UK and it’s really exciting to see the next generation reveal their talents through Fashion Fringe.
“Without business acumen and commercial nous, however, the majority of
these amazing designers won’t even make it into the public eye, unless they are supported by a strong business plan, the infrastructure and logistics for the manufacture and production of the finished designs, and deliberation around the right channel to market.”
Nabil El-Nayal, finalist from the Manchester School of Art, said: “I had no idea, for example, how many different regulations there are around the shipping of different materials including leather. Today has been a real insight into the kinds of issues we’ll have to consider in the future to ensure our fashion designs are commercially successful.”
