just-style authors and correspondents

Biography

Leonie Barrie joined just-style as managing editor 14 years ago, and during that time has been instrumental in steering the site's editorial content and direction. Under her leadership, just-style has raised its profile internationally, and today boasts a team of contributors around the world who provide a unique blend of up-to-the-minute news, research and analysis on the apparel and footwear industry and its supply chain.

An experienced business journalist with a background in fashion and textiles, Leonie has written extensively about global sourcing and production, technology, emerging markets, as well as retail, brand and marketing strategies. She has also interviewed industry leaders across the globe. As managing editor Leonie has travelled around the world to gain first-hand experience of the industry in various countries, and continues to deliver keynote speeches, chair roundtable and panel sessions at conferences, and write about the international apparel industry and the challenges and opportunities it faces. 

Columns by Leonie Barrie

Viewpoint

just-style editor Leonie Barrie shares her thoughts on some of the top stories in the news.

Articles by Leonie Barrie

Retailers still rely on outdated tools to manage sourcing 27 July 2017

The use of digital tools can help sourcing teams reduce sampling time, costs and the time to market – but a new survey suggests retailers still have a long way to go to better streamline communication and simplify their supply chain operations.

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VF Corp lifts FY view on strong Q2, CEO to add chairman duties 24 July 2017

VF Corporation CEO Steven Rendle will take on the additional role of chairman when Eric Wiseman retires later this year – as the US apparel giant booked second quarter gains and raised its outlook for the year.

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Pakistan’s MA Textiles moves into digital printing 24 July 2017

MA Textiles, one of Pakistan’s leading textile printers, is expanding into digital production in a bid to enhance its services with fast turnarounds, short runs and crisp detail.

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Trade policy tops sourcing concerns for US fashion firms 21 July 2017

The impact of trade protectionism, increasing market competition from e-commerce, and supply chain risk are the top concerns for US fashion industry executives in 2017, a new survey has found, overtaking more traditional worries like cost. Other findings point to an emerging ‘China plus Vietnam plus Many’ sourcing model, and more weight given to social compliance and sustainability in sourcing decisions.

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WFSGI Manufacturers Forum to focus on digitalisation and disruption 21 July 2017

The World Federation of the Sporting Goods Industry (WFSGI) is heading to Germany later this year, where its annual World Manufacturers Forum is set to take a look at ‘Moving on to a digital and automated business of the future.’

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New quick-dry cotton fabrics for active and outdoor wear 21 July 2017

An ongoing collaboration between Invista's Cordura brand and Cotton Incorporated has led to the development of new performance fabrics that combine the durability of Cordura fibre and the comfort of cotton.

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NGC Software rolls out latest quality control system 21 July 2017

NGC Software has launched the latest release of its Andromeda Quality Control solution for fashion retailers and brand owners, a Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) solution designed to help companies identify product quality problems on the factory floor.

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NAFTA renegotiation – Key issues for textiles and apparel 19 July 2017

As the United States, Canada and Mexico prepare to begin formal talks to renegotiate the 23-year-old North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) – which could be as early as mid-August – we take an in-depth look at key issues for textile and apparel supply chains. In the latest development, the US has set out its roadmap for the discussions.

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US sets out NAFTA negotiating stance for textiles and apparel 19 July 2017

The United States has set out its goals for the upcoming talks to renegotiate the 23-year-old North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) with Canada and Mexico – with a focus on reducing the trade deficit with Canada and Mexico, and bringing more manufacturing jobs back to the United States.

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US seeks talks on amendments to Korea free trade pact 19 July 2017

The US has requested the first-ever special session to consider "possible amendments and modifications" to the US-Korea Free Trade Agreement (KORUS).