Today was an opportunity to sleep in at first, which was fortunate because it was pouring for most of the morning. In the afternoon we were able to visit the Verona Fashion Consortium, a company that helps designers and small fashion labels expand their operations and try new designs. Their main goal is maintaining a competitive edge for Verona-based fashion labels on a national and international stage.

We were given a lecture on the business model and mission of the fashion consortium. This was interesting because it showed the Italian perspective on business planning. The lecturers described a balance being struck between business and creative priorities, and a focus on product quality and uniqueness that does not exist in the US. They also described an effort to move supply chains and keep production local, an initiative which is also prevalent in American brands since consumers in both countries prefer to buy products made in their home country. To an Italian brand, keeping production close by means more easily controlling the quality of production.

After the lecture we were given a tour of the building in which designers could bring their products to life. Designers could create samples of their products or full clothing lines at thsi facility. I was particularly impressed by the emphasis on creativity that was maintained in this primarily industrial setting. We were provided a buffet dinner at the facility, which was a great end to an informative day.