TradeCard Inc., the supply chain collaboration and global trade platform used by more than 10,000 retailers, brands, manufacturers and service providers, will play a key role in leading the supply chain agenda at the 28th International Apparel Federation (IAF) World Apparel Convention, being held September 24th through 28th in Oporto, Portugal.

TradeCard Founder, Chairman and Chief Strategy Officer Kurt Cavano will lead a portion of the supply chain program, sharing best practices for evolving sourcing strategies beyond the low cost needle. Long-time TradeCard customer Dr. Harry Lee, Chairman of TAL Apparel, is the featured keynote speaker at the IAF Convention.

“The theme of this year’s event is around the changing environment in the fashion business – and the supply chain side of the fashion business has seen more than its share of change and volatility recently,” said Cavano. “Leading brands and retailers today recognize there’s more to sourcing strategy than chasing low cost product. Speed, agility, quality, local in-country infrastructure and social and ethical compliance are essential factors to consider in any sourcing strategy today. We’ll explore these and other key factors at the IAF.”

Cavano’s session on sourcing strategies takes place September 26th at 14.30. The event is being held at the Sheraton Porto Hotel and Spa.

“My vision is to connect the entire fashion chain, not only producers but also retailers and brands,” Harry van Dalfsen, President of the International Apparel Federation (IAF) says. “As the IAF is a neutral, non-political organization, we aim to build bridges between the continents and ensure that fashion professionals are making use of a worldwide network.”

View the program and register for the IAF at iafnet.eu/events/conventions/2012-oporto/