Moda to focus on footwear reputation with key hire

By

Barbara Santamaria

Published
Jun 12, 2019

Moda, the fashion trade show taking place in Birmingham every February and August, is looking to boost its footwear credentials with the appointment of Lisa Govier as its first  director of footwear.

“With responsibility for all footwear exhibitors, my aim is to cement its position as the national footwear show, to build on this reputation, and take it to the next level by attracting more exhibitors and buyers from the best footwear retailers,” said Lisa Govier in a statement.

She has over 20 years of experience in the media industry, and was most recently heading up sponsorship and marketing solutions for footwear at Drapers. She had also commercial responsibility for the Drapers Footwear Awards, which celebrate the best in the sector.

“I have an in-depth understanding of the challenges and opportunities in the industry and having these insights has helped me to build trust and understanding. It is no secret that there have been a number of challenges in the fashion retail sector in the last few years; from business rate in increases, footfall down on the high street, ongoing uncertainty about Brexit and trading tariffs, currency devaluation and the impact this has on sourcing and manufacturing; all squeezing the margins of brands and retailers,” Govier continued.

“It is not all doom and gloom, however, as there are still a number of great success stories that need to be celebrated. At Moda Footwear, we want to work with brands to ensure more success stories going forward! What we do is not rocket science, brands want to meet as many relevant buyers as possible; and buyers want access to the best brands, and both want a return on investment.”

Martin Arnold, fashion portfolio director at ITE Group, added: “Lisa joins us with a wealth of experience and knowledge of the footwear industry. She can hit the ground running and we are delighted to welcome her to our growing Moda team as we build and adapt to the changing marketplace and continue to make the customer experience as rewarding as possible.”

Her appointment follows the show’s decision to shift its menswear section to sister brand Pure London, in a move that was criticised by some for affecting footfall numbers and diverting some menswear buyers.

Men’s footwear continues to be a part of Moda, alongside women’s footwear, womenswear and accessories.

The show’s next edition will take place on 4-6 August at the NEC in Birmingham.