Those keen to effect change to combat the current climate of candidate shortages are increasingly looking towards retail training firms to provide a solution. But does the cost and effort involved translate to a happier workforce? Samantha Docherty investigates.

A fresh new year often brings with it a desire to changes jobs. Chase Recruitment defines the market value of those already working - or looking to work - across all fronts of the fashion field.

Greetings earthlings! I've always wanted to say that. Don't worry, I don't actually believe there's life on other planets, despite a recent doco on usually reputable TV channel which argued too many people claim they've been abducted by aliens for it not to be true. As if that made for a watertight case!

It's not only A-list type celebrities who employ the services of a personal shopper and stylist. Today hundreds of women across Australia are enlisting their own through the World Wide Web, as Ragtrader discovered.

Name Gill Milligan

SYDNEY: The Australian Wool and Sheep Industry Taskforce has accused animal welfare groups of attempting to sabotage a planned meeting with Swedish retail chain H&M.

NATIONAL: Australian Wool has been given the bum's rush by international clothing retailer H&M.

NATIONAL: The Federal Court has found Australasian jewellery retailer Prouds misled consumers into believing its products were being sold at discounted prices.

<p>MELBOURNE: The&nbsp;latest edition of Melbourne's public catwalk event will unfold in the wake (literally) of the city's iconic water festival. </p>

<p>SYDNEY: Industry trade fair Fashion Exposed has expanded its childrenswear offering.</p>

MELBOURNE: Craft Victoria, the organisation dedicated to fostering creativity and professionalism in contemporary craft and design, is to launch its own festival.<br />

<p>MELBOURNE: Bag and accessories brand Catherine Manuell Design (CMD) has unveiled a &quot;luxe&quot; winter 2008 collection and re-located to a new-look store. </p>

NATIONAL: Listed apparel retailer Speciality Fashion Group (SFG) will continue to look for new acquisitions despite remaining cautious about the chances of a slowdown in consumer spending.

SYDNEY: Westfield Bondi Junction has enlisted Australia's top photographer for its autumn/winter fashion ad campaign.

SYDNEY: The organisers behind Rosemount Australian Fashion Week (RAFW) have announced details of a new festival set to give much needed promotion to the city's fashion, retail and tourism sectors.

SYDNEY: Australia's first self-proclaimed climate neutral company is venturing into the retail sector.