In this episode, hosts Pankaj Raval and Sahil Chaudry welcome Brian Hecht, founder of Show & Tell Trade Show. Brian shares his journey from growing up in the fashion industry to launching one of the most influential trade shows featuring major brands like K-Swiss and Ed Hardy. He discusses the importance of sales in fashion, emphasizing persistence and relationship-building as key success factors. Brian offers insights on supply chain diversification amid rising tariffs and warns against common pitfalls when dealing with major retailers. As an entity formation attorney advocate, he stresses the critical nature of proper legal protection for fashion startups.

Key Takeaways:

• Sales is the most critical factor for fashion brand success
• Persistence pays off - rejection is part of the process
• Diversify your supply chain beyond China due to rising tariffs
• Be cautious with major retailer deals that cut into margins
• Legal protection is essential, especially for IP and trademark issues
• Building genuine relationships trumps being "too cool" in business
• Show & Tell focuses on creating a collaborative industry atmosphere
• Preparation is crucial before attending trade shows
• Multi-channel approaches to buyers are more effective than email alone
• The fashion industry needs more regulatory oversight for compliance

🔗 Learn More:

Connect with Brian Hecht:
Instagram: show_and_tell_events
Email: [email protected]

Website: carbonlg.com
Connect with Pankaj: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pankaj-raval/
Connect with Sahil: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sahil-chaudry-6047305/