APPAREL BUYERS TO TAP INTO MACEDONIA SUPPLY CHAIN
National.
UK based apparel buyers, retailers and brands seeking a new source of production are being invited to a special event taking place in Macedonia in early March.
The 1st Annual Macedonia - UK Apparel Business to Business Event will showcase around 20 of Macedonia's leading apparel manufacturers, representing a cross section of the capabilities the republic has to offer, including tailoring and shirting.
"Macedonia is well placed for quick turnaround and their quality is fantastic," UK apparel marketing specialist Claire Hamer told just-style. "They produce for many high end Italian brands."
Supported and organised by the Macedonia Competitiveness Project, which is in turn funded by US development agency USAID, the platform will not only set up pre-matched meetings for participants but will also include factory visits.
In all, it "represents a cost-effective way to meet new suppliers, build relationships with existing partners, and learn more about why Macedonia should be part of your apparel sourcing strategy," its organisers say.
As a regional leader in apparel manufacturing, Macedonian makers have served major brands and retailers throughout Europe for many years.
The industry employs more than 40,000, with exports exceeding $500m annually, and is moving up the value chain.
Key export products include men's shirts, women's blouses and tops and bottoms for men and women.
Macedonian manufacturers offer advantages that include production costs of EUR0.08 per minute (one of the lowest rates in Europe), and the flexibility to produce small orders at the same prices as larger orders
They also boast short lead times due to their proximity to markets and fabric producers (such as Turkey and Italy) and efficient transport and logistics linkages.
The Macedonia - UK Apparel Business to Business Event will kick off on 2 March with a one-day trade show followed by two days of factory visits. For further details email Claire Hamer or call +44 7711533661.
[Just-Style]
