Paris, June 13, 2006 – Lectra, the world leader in software, CAD/CAM equipment and related services dedicated to the fashion businesses, is the official technology sponsor of the 22nd World Apparel Congress. The event, organized by the International Apparel Federation (IAF) in partnership with the Hellenic Clothing & Fashion Industry Associations, will be held June 18-20 in Thessaloniki, Greece. 

This year’s Congress marks the 30th anniversary of the IAF, the largest federation of apparel manufacturers, associations and the supporting industry, with members from more that 60 countries. The event will provide an opportunity for executives from textile and apparel companies and representatives of the fashion industry to discuss the future of the sector. The Congress will also focus on sourcing and networking opportunities with entrepreneurs from a wide geographical area, including the Balkans and Black Sea region and countries from the Mediterranean basin.

“In an era of disruptive change in the global fashion market, I believe that it is more important than ever to bring together key players from the fashion sector to discuss its future,” said Vassilis Masselos, President of the International Apparel Federation. “For more than 30 years, Lectra has supported fashion industry professionals in the realization of their projects through a combination of business expertise and innovative technology. This is why I have asked Lectra to be our partner for this year’s Congress."

Lectra’s software, CAD/CAM equipment and value-added services – completed by a PLM offering launched in April 2006 – enables fashion professionals to master each phase of the product lifecycle and optimize the collaborative work between all players involved in the development of their collections throughout the world.