The 2025 AAFA Global Supply Chain & Trade Conference is going to be a historic event amid the ongoing ‘Tariff Turbulence.’ Surely, the main talking point of global business executives, supply chain experts, and trade specialists will be the impact of tariffs on supply chain networks and international trade.
Each year, the conference drives critical conversations on evolving trade challenges, supply chain disruptions, and sustainability. The focus is to help brands and retailers tackle the shifting business landscape.
The 2025 AAFA Global Supply Chain & Trade Conference will be taking place in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and will be hosted by the American Eagle Outfitters Inc. The event will be held at The Circuit Center Ballroom at the 5 Hot Metal Street. The event will start by a Welcome Reception on May 6, followed by a full day program on May 7, and will conclude with a Networking session.
Triple Tree Solutions, empowering the textile and apparel industry for over 25 years with digital solutions, will be present at the conference. Our US Director of Business Development, Wayne McMann will represent the company and engage with peers, partners, and professionals of the apparel, footwear, and fashion industry.
🔑 Key Themes and Topics
This year’s conference is titled ‘SmartTrade25’ that shows the emphasis on intelligent, data-driven strategies to navigate evolving trade policies and supply chain complexities.
The discussion will be focused on following topics
Trade Policy & Tariffs: The tariff implementation has shifted the trade dynamics for sure. For businesses it is crucial to navigate cost implications and compliance requirements.
Supply Chain Disruption: Tariffs have further impacted global supply chains that are frequently up against geopolitical tensions, pandemics, and price fluctuations.
Sourcing Strategies: Industries depending on the supply chain must redefine their sourcing strategies to balance cost, quality, and speed. The industries must also consider ethical and sustainable practices.
Technology Integration: Leveraging digital tools and technologies can improve supply chain visibility, efficiency, and decision-making processes.
🎤 Speakers
The 2025 AAFA Global Supply Chain & Trade Conference will feature many distinguished and honorary speakers and guests.
Opening Keynote: Sarah Clarke, Chief Supply Chain and Technology Officer, AEO Inc with her wide experience and expertise in driving growth and operational efficiency will start the event.
Other Speakers include people from diverse corporate background who will share their valuable insight and input
- Ozzie Arroyo, Vice President of Corporate Social Responsibility and Traceability, Carter's, Inc.
- Mary Kate Carter, Senior Director, Lot Sixteen
- Chris Cothran, Senior Director Global Logistics, Carhartt, Inc.
- Audrey Clark, Trade and Transportation Specialist, AAFA
- Liana D’Arienzo, Manager, Global Trade and Customs, Tapestry
- Anwar Hossain, Administrator, Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association
- Beth Hughes, Vice President, Trade and Customs Policy, AAFA
- Vince Iacopella, EVP of Strategic Growth, and President-Government & Trade Relations, ALBA WHEELS UP INTERNATIONAL LLC
- Nate Herman, Senior Vice President, Policy, AAFA
- Ken Loo, PhD, Secretary General, Textile, Apparel, Footwear and Travel Goods Association of Cambodia (TAFTAC)
- Yelena Mogelefsky, Senior Vice President of Sourcing and Production, Komar Brands
- José Pablo Maauad, President, CANAIVE
- Tony Pelli, Practice Director, Security and Resilience, BSI Consulting
- Colby Potter, Senior Analyst, Sayari
- Prateeksha Prabhakar, Operations Management, Fashion and Retail Studies, Max M. Fisher College of Business, The Ohio State University
- Felicia Pullam, Senior Director, GeoCommerce, APCO
- Jeff Rohe, VP, Product Management, Infor Nexus
- Vickie Rotante, Head of Product Development and Sourcing, Janie and Jack
- Angela M. Santos, Partner and Customs Practice Leader, Co-Chair Fashion and Retail, ArentFox Schiff
- Andres Saldias, Director of Investment Promotion, Partnership for Central America
- Elise Shibles, Partner; Textiles and Apparel Practice Leader; Forced Labor Practice Leader, Sandler, Travis & Rosenberg, P.A.
- Chris Sichette, Senior Director, Global Logistics and Trade Compliance, Under Armour, Inc.
- Nathan Strang, Director of Ocean Freight, Flexport
📌 Must-Attend Sessions
Let us overview the focal sessions of the event
1. Analyzing Sourcing Challenges: With changing trade policies, sourcing from the West will involve understanding the tariffs along with agreements and regulations. Discussion on sourcing issues, steps to mitigate risks and maximize trade advantage.
2. Impact of Global Threats on Maritime Shipping: The rising global tensions and regional conflicts are disrupting key logistical routes. Conversation on how to assess and manage risks to ensure smooth trade flow.
3. Taking Closer Look on Forced Labor: Talk about how the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act (UFLPA) started, the problems, and the progress made in preventing forced labor.
4. Navigating Customs: The evolving CBP enforcement and key trade policies are reshaping customs practices. Dialogue on how to develop a tariff mitigation strategy.
5. Debate on Tariff Tensions: The one word echoing across businesses worldwide is ‘Tariff.’ Companies must prepare for new duties, shifts in supply chains, and adapt to operational challenges
6. Developing a Tariff Strategy: Discover key strategies to navigate tariffs and duties to restructure supply chains. boost cost savings, and improve operational efficiency in global trade.
🤝 Networking Opportunities
The conference will offer numerous opportunities to connect with industry peers and experts:
Welcome Reception: An informal gathering on May 6 to kick off the event.
Networking Happy Hour: A full day program on May 7 will conclude with a Networking Hour which will be a relaxed setting to interact and discuss insights and ideas.
⭐ Triple Tree Solutions at SmartTrade 2025
Triple Tree Solutions will be participating in the 2025 AAFA Global Supply Chain & Trade Conference. It has developed and provided advanced digital platforms for textile and apparel brands to streamline their production and supply chain operations.
The three digital solutions include
1. QUONDA: Textile Quality Management with complete Visibility of Inline and Final Inspections
2. ColordesQ: Digital Color Management Solution for Faster Color Evaluations and Approvals
3. TrackIT: Real-time Production Tracking to prevent Delays and Ensure Lean Supply Chain
Our U.S. Director of Business Development, Wayne McMann will be actively engaging at the event. Amid the shifts in global trade and supply chain, with Triple Tree Solutions brands can capitalize on the opportunity and optimize their operations.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're looking to stay ahead of regulatory changes, enhance your supply chain strategies, or expand your professional network, the 2025 AAFA Global Supply Chain & Trade Conference is an event you won't want to miss.
Join industry professionals in Pittsburgh to gain valuable insights and forge connections that will drive your business forward.