SPESA Executive Conference 2025 to Emphasize Resilience and Circular Economy

The SPESA Executive Conference 2025 will focus on resilience and circularity in the sewn products industry. The conference will take place in Chicago from August 27-29, 2025, featuring sessions on circularity, making in America, AI in sourcing, and succession planning. The event aims to provide an educational and networking opportunity for industry stakeholders to discuss trends and challenges. Registration opened in May.

The SPESA Executive Conference 2025, scheduled for August 27-29, 2025, in Chicago, IL, will focus on resilience and circularity in the sewn products industry. The event aims to provide an educational and networking opportunity for industry stakeholders to discuss current trends and challenges. Registration opened in May.

The conference will feature sessions on various topics, including circularity, making in America, AI in sourcing, and succession planning. These sessions will delve into how the industry can build resilient, future-ready businesses. The event will kick off with a fireside chat featuring designer Maria Pinto, who will discuss "Design, Resilience & Building a Global Brand." Following this, a session titled "Circularity Reimagined – Building a Product Meant to Last" will explore how collaboration and technology are revolutionizing garment longevity and creating new consumer value [1].

The conference will also include sessions on "Making in America." Robert McMillan of Dearborn Denim & Apparel will share his experience on "Building a Brand with Local Roots," highlighting the benefits of a localized supply chain. Julie Rader, sourcing director of Walmart, will discuss the progress of the company's partnership with clothing manufacturer American Giant in bringing US-made t-shirts nationwide [1].

The role of AI in sourcing will be explored by Anthony Sardain, CEO and founder of Cavela, and Liam Howlett of Western Welder Outfitters. They will discuss how AI is transforming sourcing strategies and supplier relationships. Dr. Sheng Lu, professor of apparel studies at the University of Delaware, will provide an analysis of current tariff policies and their effects on sourcing and manufacturing strategies [1].

Additionally, the conference will feature a session on succession planning strategies for business continuity and growth, led by Miguel Montero of in2track Solutions. Lenny Marano, president of the Americas at Lectra and SPESA board member, will lead a conversation on automation's role in manufacturing efficiency, cost reduction, and supply chain agility [1].

The SPESA Executive Conference 2025 will take place at the Sofitel Chicago Magnificent Mile, with a discounted room rate of $279 available for attendees. The event will feature a welcome networking reception on August 27th, educational sessions on August 28th, and an interactive workshop session on August 29th. The overarching theme of the conference is "Forging Forward - Building Resilient, Future-Ready Businesses," reflecting the industry's resilience in the face of uncertainty [2].

The conference aims to provide a platform for industry professionals to engage in open dialogue, share insights, and collaborate on solutions to the challenges facing the sewn products industry. With a strong focus on U.S. manufacturing, the event will bring together stakeholders from across the supply chain to discuss the most pressing issues and explore opportunities for growth and innovation.

References:
[1] https://www.just-style.com/news/spesa-executive-conference-2025-cgicago/
[2] https://www.spesa.org/2025-spesa-executive-conference