MFGS 2023: The challenges for brands and supply chain

The timeless luxury of Hermès, Chiara Ferragni’s evolution between digital and physical platforms, Missoni’s future objectives under the guidance of Fsi and Claudio Marenzi’s global perspective at Herno. These topics were discussed in the context of fashion’s significant role in Italy’s trade balance. «In the first seven months of the year, from january to july, the italian fashion industry grew by 7% as opposed to 1% for manufacturing in general. As a result, these are extremely promising figures», Fabrizio Guelpa, head of industry and banking research at Intesa Sanpaolo, explained.

During the second day of the MFGS-Milano fashion global summit 2023, ceo of Hermès Italia Francesca di Carrobio’s speech focused on the strong relationship with Italy and the brand’s support for artisanal training and development. «We have a great partnership with Italy, where we have had a presence since 1965 through our distributors. 20% of our production happens in Italy while 80% of it is produced in France», she stated. «Despite being listed on the stock exchange, we are still a family business, and we possess a good understanding of entrepreneurs in the supply chain. This is why we prefer to maintain partnerships instead of acquiring manufacturers», she continued. According to Fabrizio Guelpa, research indicated that Italy will require approximately 60,000 workers by 2027. «As much as half of the workforce needed in the fashion industry is considered challenging to find. Either because the profiles are unsuitable or simply because these professions do not exist at all», he added. «The next year will pose challenges for the industry although no significant setbacks have been predicted», he stated. «The year will demand a careful analysis and reflection». Among the first areas of concern is production sustainability. As a result, companies must advance in this direction.

«2023 has been productive, and I am delighted by the surge of financial interest in my companies and approach to business. The increased attention validates our path», Chiara Ferragni said, who boasts 30 million followers and is expanding the enterprise beyond the board of Tod’s. «Since 2017, I have served as the ceo of Tbs crew, a company that manages The blonde salad and specializes in talent representation and digital marketing strategy consulting. Since 2018, I have held the position of ceo at Fenice, the company responsible for overseeing the Chiara Ferragni brand», she explained. One of the objectives listed was the recognition received from the Harvard university, which invited her to speak to its students of business. Currently, Fenice, whose shareholding underwent a reorganization, is worth 75 million euros. On the second day of the MFGS, which was dedicated to brand and supply chain challenges, the focus was on the supply chain’s evolution among the new generation of entrepreneurs, aggregations of manufacturing realities, macroeconomic analysis, and strategic directions, which include the areas of digital and sustainability. The event provides a chance to release the inaugural Top 20 players in the supply chain based on revenue. In addition, the MFF Luxury stock index (see MFF of October 20) makes its debut, which analyses over 70 listed companies and pinpoints the leading 10 in revenue, ebitda, market cap and growth over the year. The closing day will center on contemplation of craftsmanship and knowledge transmission. Today, the event kicks off with Alfonso Dolce, ceo of Dolce&Gabbana. (All rights reserved)