More power for the largest sectoral entity in the United States
In a statement addressed to the press, the FDRA, the association representing the large commercial chains, distributors, wholesalers and the most recognized footwear brands of the United States, reported that it assumed the management of operations of the FFANY, the organization dedicated to the realization of commercial events and promotion of the national industry.
In this way, Matt Priest, president and executive director of FDRA will continue to oversee the entity, accompanied by John Heron, executive director of FFANY, who will become strategic advisor to the FDRA.
“This is a pivotal time for our industry and I am pleased and excited that our respective boards of directors have been able to make it happen. FFANY has served the industry incredibly well and its integration into the FDRA structure will allow us to bring together executives to better coordinate the direction of the industry and support initiatives to strengthen it", said FDRA President and executive director Matt Priest, who was the author of the agreement.
He then added: "I look forward to working with John in the coming months to welcome the members of FFANY to our association and to ensure that the legacy of FFANY continues on a positive and impressive path."
“FDRA will take care of day-to-day operations, commercial brands and finances, as well as coordinating dates and industry activities at the famous FFANY New York Market Week. In addition, current FFANY members will now be part of FDRA and will be provided with a wide range of business tools and services to assist during these difficult economic times”, the statement specified.
“FDRA is the gold standard for industry associations across our country due to its tremendous impact on politics issues, as well as its solid communication platforms, information services, and many programs that support all activities in the footwear industry. This organization will position FDRA as a stronger association that we can trust to be a platform for industry communication, guidance as we evolve, and leadership in establishing priorities in collective actions to advance", said the president of the FDRA, Mike Jeppesen.
Berkshire Hathaway Shoe Holdings Chairman Jim Issler, who was also a longtime director and former chairman of both organizations, applauded the measure saying: “Consolidation is nothing new for our industry, and in the past three decades we have witnessed of the merger of retailers and wholesalers into larger entities. The merger of FDRA and FFANY will create an alliance tthat will have the most important market in the footwear industry, while forging an even stronger entity to advance the common interests of all members of this new association".
With the addition of FFANY, the FDRA now holds 95% of the representation of the entire US footwear industry.
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