NEWS Briefs
MELBOURNE: Innovation and the environment will be the key theme at the impending Australian TCF Technology Network's annual international conference. Staged at Melbourne's BMW Edge in Federation Square, the May 23 conference will again be staged in conjunction with the Australian Innovation Festival. A host of international guest speakers have been invited to speak at the event which also aims to provide networking opportunities beyond the TCF sector. The conference ends with dinner and entertainment. For more: 03 5267 2426.
Store rollouts
NATIONAL: The parent group of sister womenswear brands Noni B and La Voca has announced plans to dramatically increase its retail portfolio - aiming to construct an additional 100 stores in the next few years. Having opened 12 new locations and closed one store in the past 12 months, the group currently operates around 201 stores across both brands. Noni B group managing director Alan Kindl said La Voca - which launched into stores last year - had enormous growth potential. Eventually the group would like to operate as many as 100 La Voca stores and 200 Noni B outlets, he said.
Zebra duo
SYDNEY; Womenswear retailer Pink Zebra will throw open the door to its second Sydney location later this month. The Paddington-based flagship store, which opened to the public in February 2006, will be joined by a second store in Sydney's Chatswood Chase. Brands stocked at the stores will include denim labels Paige, Joes Jeans, Antik Denim, Union, True Religion and Citizens of Humanity. Cashmere ranges include Vince, Christopher Fischer, New Scotland and Pink Zebra's own Yum Cashmere.
French flavour
NATIONAL: French-inspired Christchurch-based label Mille Feuille is set to try its luck this side of the Tasman. The label, designed by Robyn Stewart, features highly tailored casualwear with beaded silk tulles and chiffons being a key point of difference. The collection, which began selliing last month, has already been
Japanese Aus tour
MELBOURNE: Representatives of four of Japan's largest menswear retailers have had a close encounter with Australian Wool. As part of its ongoing commitment to the promotion of Australian wool, Woolmark hosted the group of eight, all buyers or sales staff from Aoyama Trading, Aoki Holdings, Haruyama Trading and Konaka. Arriving in Australia last month the group, who between them sell more than 4 million men's suits each year - were given a whole-of-pipeline.