TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwired - Oct. 24, 2014) - DHL, the world's leading logistics provider, revealed the competitive and global nature of the fashion industry by kicking off its fifth DHL Fashion Industry Panel. As the Official Logistics Partner, DHL, fashion designers and other industry experts will share insights and real-world expertise to help budding fashion enterprises learn what it takes to create successful, international fashion brands. The panel will be held today, Friday, October 24 at 11 a.m. in the Studio at WorldMastercard^® Fashion Week, and is moderated by Deirdre Kelly, style reporter at the Globe and Mail.

"Designers in today's era of global trade have an unprecedented opportunity to build international brands," said Greg Hewitt, President at DHL Express Canada. "We are committed to helping them break down international barriers with our knowledge, experience of the fashion industry and our worldwide network."

Panel discussion topics included current trends shaping the fashion industry, how to secure financing and overcome challenges of expanding internationally, how designers can market and protect their brands abroad, as well as the importance of working with a knowledgeable logistics and business partner when doing business across borders.

Panel participants include Deirdre Kelly, style reporter at the Globe and Mail; Greg Hewitt, President at DHL Express Canada; designers, Laura Siegel and Karen Beach; Susan Langdon, Executive Director at Toronto Fashion Incubator; and Carolyn Quinn, Director, IMG Fashion Events & Properties.

"Becoming an internationally known brand doesn't happen by accident, and it isn't all about the artistic vision and designs," says Quinn. "Knowing how to seek out growth opportunities, how to find key business allies and handle the business aspect of a fashion label or retailer are integral considerations for any successful brand."

DHL - The logistics company for the world

DHL is the global market leader in the logistics and transportation industry and "The logistics company for the world". DHL commits its expertise in international express, national and international parcel delivery, air and ocean freight, road and rail transportation as well as contract and e-commerce related solutions along the entire supply chain. A global network composed of more than 220 countries and territories and around 315,000 employees worldwide offers customers superior service quality and local knowledge to satisfy their shipping and 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 revenues of more than 55 billion euros in 2013.