Staff Report
STAFF REPORT August 18, 2003 To: Economic Development and Parks Committee From: Joe Halstead, Commissioner Economic Development, Culture and Tourism Subject: 2003 Toronto Fashion Industry Report All Wards Purpose: To provide an update on fashion cluster activity, including the upcoming New Labels documentary, Toronto Fashion Week, the Apparel Industry Development Council and export development initiatives. Financial Implications and Impact Statement: There are no financial implications resulting from the adoption of this report. Recommendations: It is recommended that this report be received for information. Background: Since 1984, the Economic Development Division has been working together with the City’s Fashion Industry Liaison Committee (FILC), to support and promote this significant sector of our economy. Our strategy has included the promotion of Toronto as an international fashion centre improving linkages among the industry members, and to enhance the economic viability of the industry. Efforts are focused on the broader fashion cluster, including apparel manufacturing as well as design, wholesale and retail sales and marketing, education and training, fur, accessories, fashion media, hair, makeup, photography, choreography and modeling. The purpose of the report is to provide an update on the results of the cluster development strategy. The report also discusses some recent changes in trade legislation expected to have a negative impact on the cluster. The City’s efforts to support the fashion/apparel cluster will - 2 - continue to be important. Economic Development staff are working together with the industry to implement a number of key projects, that are outlined below. Comments: The City’s sector support strategy, developed and delivered in partnership with the industry, has focussed on enchanting and promoting the innovation, quality and value inherent in the product and services delivered by the fashion/apparel cluster, its quick response capabilities, and the development of a skilled workforce.
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