The FINANCIAL — Regent’s was fortunate to recently host two excellent speakers from the fashion industry at the Marylebone campus, according to Regent’s University London.
Zoe Cokeliss, Corporate Responsibility and Governance Manager for Pentland Brands’ Lifestyle Division, and Roger Smith, Head of Design at Ted Baker Shoes, focused on the philosophy of sustainability in fashion and gave an informative and interactive session on Ted Baker’s footwear range on 25 February to over 120 attendees including students, staff and external guests.
Zoe described how Pentland – the name behind some of the world’s best sports, outdoor and fashion brands – partners with others to understand corporate responsibility trends, share experiences, and build relationships that make progress possible.
Zoe said: “It is vitally important to source responsibly to improve conditions for the people who make our products. We are also committed to reducing the environmental impact of the materials and processes used to make our products. As well as being a signatory to the United Nations Global Compact, we are longstanding members of the Ethical Trading Initiative and Sustainable Apparel Coalition, and a Better Work programme ‘buyer partner’.”
Roger provided an overview of the latest range and described the process of coming up with an initial concept and the planning behind it. Various product examples were displayed during the event and attendees were asked to guess the top sellers based on information which was given out throughout the session. Prizes for the winners included a pair of Ted Baker shoes.
A group of Regent’s Media and Communications students filmed the event and took the opportunity to interview Zoe regarding Pentland’s approach to corporate responsibility and ethical trade.
Roger said: “It was a pleasure to present in front of such an engaged audience. Pentland and Ted Baker are strong advocates for promoting sustainability in this industry and both myself and Zoe will be looking at ways in which we can further collaborate with Regent’s in the future.”
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