TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwired - March 18, 2014) - Now in its fourth season, DHL, the Official Logistics Provider for World MasterCard Fashion Week, will once again host renowned experts in the fashion industry during the "DHL: The Business of Fashion" panel on Tuesday, March 18 at noon in the Studio. The panel will explore the business side of fashion, top industry trends and issues on the minds of young designers, the challenges these entrepreneurs will face and the solutions that will allow them to succeed.

"With this season's panel, we are hoping to help give young designers an in-depth look into today's business landscape and the various sectors they need to consider when starting their journey into the competitive fashion industry," said Greg Hewitt, President of DHL Express Canada. "We bring together Canadian experts, including top designers, who share their experience and advice on the challenges these entrepreneurs will face -- as well as the solutions that have allowed them to thrive."

The DHL panel discussion will be moderated by Greg Hewitt, President of DHL Express Canada and include:

• Shawn Hewson, Creative Director, Bustle Clothing
• Susan Langdon, Executive Director, Toronto Fashion Incubator
• Marissa Freed, MBA - President and Creative Director, Freed & Freed International Ltd.
• Ashlee Froese, Board Member of Fashion Group International and Owner/Editor of canadafashionlaw.com, Partner at Gilbert's LLP

The panelists will discuss the challenges of starting a business, the steps to take when designing a collection, how to legally protect your brand, finding the right manufacturer and how to import and export your collection. The topics also include key insights into creating a comprehensive business plan and developing a sound marketing strategy.

"DHL has been a longtime partner of fashion weeks worldwide and has continuously supported the advancement of the fashion industry," says Jarrad Clark, VP and Global Creative Director, IMG Fashion Events and Properties. "For the past four seasons, these insightful panelists have aimed to help young designers understand the complex nature of the fashion industry and provide them with the tools and advice to succeed."

DHL has developed specific logistics solutions to meet the demanding needs of the fashion sector. As a global company operating in 220 countries worldwide, DHL can deliver optimized supply chains, reduced lead times and easy access to new markets for up-and-comers and established fashion icons. DHL's fashion industry solutions include distribution centre management, international supply chain management, analysis and design, e-commerce management and a European Fashion Network that delivers over 200 million garments per year.

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DHL - The Logistics company for the world

DHL is the global market leader in the logistics industry and "The Logistics company for the world". DHL commits its expertise in international express, air and ocean freight, road and rail transportation, contract logistics and international mail services to its customers. A global network composed of more than 220 countries and territories and about 285,000 employees worldwide offers customers superior service quality and local knowledge to satisfy their supply chain requirements. DHL accepts its social responsibility by supporting environmental protection, disaster management and education.

DHL is part of Deutsche Post DHL. The Group generated revenue of more than 55 billion euros in 2013.

For more information: www.dp-dhl.com.