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chairman's column
“Adapting to Change”
The word “change” can be defined as undergoing a modification or a transformation; to give a different course or direction; or to pass from one phase or another. Regardless of the definition you prefer, I believe we can agree that change is inevitable. All one has to do is wake up each morning to be reminded that the world in which we live encounters change daily. Subsequently, our industry and our companies must make decisions on how and/or if we are going to respond to change. Mergers at retail and supplier levels impact not only the demographics but also the identities of those companies that remain viable in the global marketplace. It is critically important for these entities to have access to information and resources that provide a degree of predictability as well as flexibility. Relationships and partnerships heighten in their significance through innovation and technology…how do I get the right product into the right hands before my competitor?
The Hosiery Association shares many of the same challenges as we do. In fact, staff, officers and the Board of Directors work diligently to maintain this organization’s relevance as our world and our needs evolve. It represents our voice within the industry, the retailing community, government, media and even the consumer. I have selected “Adapting to Change” as the theme for my term as Chairperson as I firmly believe that THA offers us tools and resources that can enable us to more clearly define who we are and who we want to be. In order for us to remain viable, we must fulfill a need or a purpose. While these opportunities may be in existence today, it is perhaps more critical from a longevity standpoint that we challenge ourselves in discovering those which are not. Globalization, economic volatility, governmental uncertainty, natural disasters and energy crises are just a few of the factors that we all face and must make decisions on how to best adjust or modify.
Our industry is known for its survival instincts, tenacity and most importantly, the passion that we each possess. Representing a fourth generation business owner and leader within this organization, I speak from the heart by saying that working collectively through the Association we can leverage our strengths to ensure success.
 I look forward to serving you.
chairman's column ARCHIVE
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