SPESA revealed its latest developments during its annual business meeting, held as part of the 38th World Fashion Convention, co-hosted with the International Apparel Federation (IAF).

New addition to SPESA board of directors

The organisation explains Agencia J.E. Handal is an authorised distributor specialising in industrial sewing, cutting, and finishing equipment for the apparel industry, based in Honduras.

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With over 40 years contributing to the development of the textile, apparel, and sewn products industries in Central America, Handal is keen to use his board of directors seat to support SPESA with its plan to pursue initiatives in the region by sharing his expert knowledge.

Board Class of 2026 election results

The SPESA membership also voted to re-elect several current board members, constituting the board class of 2026.

The elected members include Daniella Ambrogi of CGS, Inc., Dan Berzack of Sewn Products Equipment Co., David Handal of Agencia J.E. Handal S.A. de C.V., Ed Gribbin of Gribbin Strategic, and Nina McCormack of DAP America, Inc.

Each member will serve a three-year term beginning on 23 October 2023.

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Approval of officer slate

The SPESA board approved the officer slate on 23 October, introducing a new leadership team:

  • Mark Hatton, managing director, of Americas at American & Efird, will serve as the chairperson of the board
  • Daniella Ambrogi, global senior marketing director of CGS, Inc., as vice chairperson
  • Michael Rabin, sales director of the Americas at Morgan Tecnica Spa will be secretary/treasurer.

The newly-elected officers will each serve two-year terms, while Ed Gribbin will continue to serve on the board as the immediate past president.

At the 38th World Fashion Convention, the International Apparel Federation’s secretary general, Matthijs Crietee told Just Style he hopes more fashion manufacturers and factories will break out of the low price trap in 2024.

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