Briefs

Pac a Punch 
NATIONAL:Australian apparel giant Pacific Brands has defended its slumping share price. Shares at the listed company have fallen by more than 20 per cent on their issue price four years ago, with fund managers reportedly concerned about further effects from the slowing economy. According to a story in the Financial Review, Pacific Brands is feeling pressure from some of its larger retail customers, which are increasingly shifting away from their wholesale suppliers to direct supply arrangements with Chinese manufacturers. The company hit back at the allegations, arguing that its range of everyday items such as socks, underwear and value-driven clothing acted as a buffer against external issues affecting retail.  

Limited edition
SYDNEY:Premium eyewear wholesaler Dita has collaborated with Cazal on a range of limited edition products. After a year of negotiations, the internationally renowned Cazal Eyewear brand granted Dita permission to re-release its 902 vintage frame through its distribution channels. Priced at $825, the range is available in four colour-ways with only 200 products landing in Australian stores next month. National stockists include Eyezone Emporium in Victoria's Albert Park and Malvern, TOY Boutique in Queensland's Surfers Paradise and Eyeballs in Sydney's Paddington district.

:A vintage touch
SYDNEY:Merino activewear brand Red Island is on a wholesaling mission. Originally developed by Australian Wool Innovation (AWI) for exclusive distribution in Purely Merino concept stores, the range is now being produced by fabric house Charles Parsons, using its own Merino wool jersey fabrics. Distributors said they are aiming to grow the brand's presence beyond Purely Merino stores for the spring/summer 2008 season with activewear and retail stores both on the agenda. The Red Island range is made from 100 per cent Australian Merino Wool fabrics – including Elastane blends for additional stretch and minimal crease – and has hick-wicking, odour dispelling properties.

Innovative Renaissance
MELBOURNE:The Australian TCF Technology Network has sourced a broad range of national and international speakers for its 2008 Annual Conference. Based around three main themes – Fibres Development, New Products and Process Developments and Market Needs for Textile Applications – the presentations will include a representative from The German Institute for Textile and Fibre Research, the CSIRO Textile and Fibre Technology Division and Rudolf Hufenus from EMPA Materials Science and Technology. The conference will be held at the Crown Casino on July 22 and will be followed by dinner at the Melbourne Aquarium. For more: http://www.tcftechnet.com.au/