TORONTO /CNW/ - Retail Council of Canada (RCC) and Association of Footwear + Apparel Canada (AFA) announce a partnership with a strong mandate to build a united platform for the retail and supplier community.

The goal of this relationship is to support the critical eco-system of independent retailers and suppliers within the fashion category of footwear, apparel, and accessories. The two national associations will focus on retail-specific member programs that support these retailers and wholesalers.  

Both organizations will collaborate on joint communications, education programs and benefits relevant to the retail industry.

AFA Canada (formerly Ontario Shoe Travellers Association) launched in February 2020 to address the need for retailers and suppliers to strategically work together to build a stronger voice for independent fashion retailers. Once exclusive to suppliers, AFA Canada now welcomes retailers from across the country to join and contribute their voice toward a stronger future.

"In an effort to advance the community supporting retailers and suppliers within the footwear, apparel and accessory industries, the alliance with Retail Council of Canada will unify our community platform to help the buying and selling process, facilitate business, share information and support through education. This partnership will serve as a vehicle for growth, opportunity and progression for both organizations and the industry in general.  We are excited and looking forward to seeing the evolution of our partnership", Janelle LeBlanc, President, AFA Canada.

"Strong independent retailers in the footwear, apparel and accessory industries are essential to maintaining and growing a vibrant retail sector in communities across Canada," said Diane J. Brisebois, President and CEO Retail Council of Canada. "Helping these retailers and vendors remain vibrant and expand has never been more important. "