During the American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) Annual Executive Summit in Bonita Springs, FL, AAFA chairman Peter J. Gabbe, Chief Operating Officer of Carole Hochman Design Group, turned over the chairmanship of the AAFA Board of Directors to Carol Hochman, President and CEO of The Triumph Apparel Corporation (Danskin).

Peter's guidance and insight over the years have been invaluable, said AAFA President and CEO Kevin M. Burke. While I am saddened to see him depart this position, I am thrilled that Carol has accepted the charge of leading our association during this time of economic uncertainty for our industry. Her top-notch leadership experience and innovative thinking will provide our association with fresh ideas as we move forward.

I am excited to assume this new role with the AAFA, especially at this time of great progress in our industry, said Ms. Hochman. In my career, I have seen the highs and lows our industry has endured. By staying focused on innovation and opportunity, together we can navigate this difficult economic climate and meet the challenges ahead.

Burke also announced that Killick S. Datta, chairman and CEO of International Brand Partners LLC, moves up to AAFA vice chairman, Rick Darling, President of Li & Fung USA, moves up to AAFA treasurer.

By a recent AAFA Board of Directors membership election ballot, 14 Board members were re-elected and 4 new nominees were elected to the Board of Directors to three-year terms through 2012. New to the Board are Alan Colman, CEO of ATSCO Footwear, Katherine Gold, President of Gold Bug, Terry Lay, CEO of Haggar Clothing Co., and Mark Weber, CEO of LVMH Inc./chairman/cEO of Donna Karan International.

Through a special appointment by the Board earlier this year, Rich Noll, Chairman/cEO, Hanesbrands, Inc. and Maurice Reznik, President, Maidenform, Inc., were confirmed to fill open positions on the Board.

The American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) is the national trade association representing apparel, footwear and other sewn products companies, and their suppliers, which compete in the global market. AAFA's mission is to promote and enhance its members' competitiveness, productivity and profitability in the global market by minimizing regulatory, commercial, political, and trade restraints.

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