DHL links with BFC for 'international potential' designer award

By

Sandra Halliday

Published
Jun 19, 2017

Parcels delivery giant DHL has launched a new DHL Award for International Fashion Potential in partnership with the British Fashion Council that it says is designed “to support the global ambition of British fashion designers.”

The company, which interacts much more regularly with both UK and global consumers following the relentless rise of online shopping, is clearly aiming to be viewed as a key fashion industry partner for the future with the focus on young businesses with this new award.

Only last week it inked a deal in the US to be the official logistics partner of the CFDA, the not-for-profit group that represents the designer community.

This latest UK initiative is seeking up-and-coming fashion brands “with the drive to take their products to new, international markets.” There will be a panel of judges with one British fashion brand winning £20,000 to help them recognise their international export potential.

Just as important though, along with the cash prize, the winner will also gain support and advice from the logistics giant and from the BFC. The company said its e-commerce specialists will share insights gained from working closely with many of Britain’s largest online retailers and BFC will provide additional support through its Designer Business Development Programme.

To be eligible to enter the race, designers must have registered their fashion business with Companies House between 1 January 2012 and 1 January this year. Entrants have until 11 August 2017 to submit their entries and the winner will be announced in September during London Fashion Week 2017.

BFC chief executive Caroline Rush said: “British brands continue to perform well in export markets and London is still home to the best talent in the global fashion industry.”