Charlotte, North Carolina: The Hosiery Associations (THA) Board of Directors voted to dissolve the 108 year-old organisation effective December 31, 2013. According to the announcement, "Economic volatility and increased globalisation of the hosiery industry caused consolidation within the membership. Also, the membership demographics have changed and some companies diversified the types of products they sell (both hosiery/non-hosiery). Most companies have fewer employees and time for active involvement in association activities has become more challenging. The requested needs and services within the current membership have become decentralised."
All of these factors caused a steep decline in THAs membership over the last several years resulting in a drop in revenue that has left the Association unable to sustain itself. While the decision was a hard one to make, we believe it is the right one given the circumstances. Change is not always easy, but it does often provide new opportunities.
THA has been in talks with The American Apparel and Footwear Association (AAFA) regarding opportunities for AAFA to serve THAs membership in the future. As a result of discussions with them, AAFA is forming a Legwear Committee and has invited all current THA member companies to become AAFA members.
The ownership and management of THAs sock/sheer sizing forms has been transferred to The Hosiery Technology Centre (HTC), now known as the Manufacturing Solutions Centre (MSC) effective December 1, 2013. The MSC has long been a champion for the hosiery industry and a valuable partner to THA. The MSC played a vital role in developing the sizing form programs.
For further information:
The Hosiery Association
North Carolina.
Tel: 704 365 0913.
Fax: 704 362 2056.
www.hosieryassociation.com.