Indian apparel sector presents strong alternative to China, Vietnam

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SME Times News Bureau | 17 Dec, 2013
Christopher Griffin, VP of SOURCING and Show Director of WWDMAGIC, in an exclusive interview to SME Times, gave the inside scoop for the show - MAGIC MARKET WEEK. This show is one of the largest global market week for contemporary men's and women's apparel, footwear and sourcing and the most comprehensive destination for fashion buyers and brands in the world.

Every February and August, the industry gathers at Las Vegas for inspiration, connection, and to shop a portfolio of ten expertly merchandised and curated shows across every category, trend and price point. In fueling the business of fashion, MAGIC MARKET WEEK impacts what the world will be wearing.

While commenting on the India's presence in the list of top three apparel and textile exporters to the US market, Christopher Griffin said that India presents a strong alternative to China and Vietnam - modern facilities, good pricing, and fast turnaround, all make India a logical country to source in.

Excerpts of the interview...

Magic Market Week has remained one of the most popular shows in the US for so many years - what is the magic behind it? What sets Magic apart from other apparel shows/ events?
Christopher Griffin: MMW is a "HAPPENING" - one that brings together brands, buyers, deal makers, and all the movers and shakers of our industry - that along with the $3 Billion in business that gets written is what sets us above all the rest.

What are your expectation from the upcoming show in terms of participants and visitors? What are the new categories to be introduced this time?
Christopher Griffin: We expect a record show, largest since 2008, with over 1 million feet, 4,000 exhibitors and 30,000 buyers.

Kindly share some light on the present situation of the US apparel industry and the challenges & opportunities it involves? What is the growth prospect for the industry in the coming days?
Christopher Griffin: The US apparel industry is blessed by great creativity at both the luxury and the fast fashion ends of the spectrum. Men's apparel - particularly tailored dressing, is experiencing a renaissance. While women's Yoga/ active wear is booming. Some of the challenges include the price of cotton and the lingering after effects of the recession. Nevertheless, US retailers are expecting a solid sales performance for the Christmas selling season.

As per latest figures, India is in the list of top three apparel and textile exporters to the key US market. What is your take on this?
Christopher Griffin: India presents a strong alternative to China and Vietnam - modern facilities, good pricing, and fast turnaround, all make India a logical country to source in.

How Indian apparel and related goods suppliers can make use of Magic?
Christopher Griffin: Sourcing at MAGIC draws attention from our 4,000 brands that exhibit with us - what better way to access sourcing executives from key US brands! Indian factories that exhibit at SAM can also expect to see supply chain executives from outside the US - over 100 countries at last count.

India has emerged as the most preferred destination for global brands and stores like Zara, H&M, Tommy Hilfiger, Walmart etc. What makes India their preferred destination your thoughts on this?
Christopher Griffin: It's no surprise, India's pricing, ability to work in knits and wovens, high tech cad abilities and quick shipping all make it compelling for the brands mentioned.

Which overseas manufacturing destinations are most preferred by US companies?
Christopher Griffin: Well, certainly China, Vietnam and Bangladesh are popular sources but India has great appeal - a stable, strong producer of both knits and wovens.

Any plans to spread Magic to other countries/ regions? Any other shows planned by Advanstar complementing Magic which our members can make use of?
Christopher Griffin: None at this time.