Sourcing Journal Fall Summit Letter from the Editor
Sometimes in our business it can feel like the troubles never end.
When one problem subsides, another arises in its place. While the pandemic might have been a once-in-a-lifetime event, any hope of a return to normalcy was dashed by myriad new challenges. Port negotiations, rail strikes, tariff concerns, new legislation, rampant inflation, weakening consumer demand. Any of these on its own is cause for concern, but in concert, it amounts to perhaps the most difficult operating environment many of us have ever faced.
Is there hope? Of course. I’ve been covering this industry for nearly three decades and can say with certainty it is nothing if not resilient. One way we have persevered, if not thrived, is by an ability to remain flexible, alter course and adapt new learnings and ways of conducting business.
It’s in this spirit that I’m asking for your attention today. Sourcing Journal’s flagship event, the Fall Summit, or as we like to call it “The Super Bowl of Sourcing” is taking place next month. I know of no other industry event that puts a greater emphasis on bringing pertinent and relevant knowledge to its attendees from the leading experts in their fields.
This year’s edition, entitled “Strategic Solutions for Complex Challenges,” features a top-level lineup of decision-makers and thought leaders from some of the biggest players in our industry. The mission: to highlight what’s working, where the obstacles lie, and provide actionable ideas on how to navigate these rough waters.
From an intimate chat with Bonobos founder Andy Dunn, to sessions with executives from Li & Fung, Macy’s, SPARC Group, ASOS, OEC, Vera Bradley, Zappos, American Eagle Outfitters and many more, the day’s agenda will cover all facets of your business, dirt to shirt, first mile to last mile and all the road in between.
It seems we are all busier than ever, and time is our most precious commodity. Let’s use it wisely. One day of learning that could inform, educate and enlighten is well worth the investment. I encourage all of you to attend, participate, and perhaps even gain an edge on your competition. And of course, see old friends and make some new ones.
