Quarterly Footwear Forecast Webinar

We are pleased to welcome the return of this dynamic duo: the BFA’s resident Economist, Gary Raines, and Wayne Gibson of RIF Worldwide to present a webinar for BFA members on Tuesday 24th May 2022 at 2pm.

Wayne will present an overview on the shipping challenges, provide an update on rate levels in the market and explain new products from RIF in the small parcel solutions to and from Europe.

In reviewing & forecasting the UK footwear market, Gary will likely discuss the impact from a few key issues that have developed over the last quarter, namely:

• Downshifting economic UK growth forecasts for this year and next

• Surging inflation, especially retail footwear prices

• The Bank of England’s rate-hiking cycle

• Plunging consumer confidence across the UK

• Impact from the Russia/Ukraine conflict

After the presentation, there will be an open Q&A session. You will have the opportunity to ask any questions you may have to Gary and Wayne.

GARY RAINES

Gary Raines is the Chief Economist and co-Founder of Red Sky Economics. He forecasts and manages all of the Red Sky Economics consulting projects and has over a quarter-century of experience in risk management, supply chain analysis, forecasting and economic modelling.

Gary brings a wealth of experience to all his clients. He has an undergraduate degree in Economics, a minor in statistics and two Master’s degrees in economics and Textile & Apparel Technology Management so is well placed to advise our members at the BFA.

WAYNE GIBSON

Wayne is the Managing Director at RIF Worldwide Plc. He started his career as an Import Clerk and has held a variety of different roles within the business which has enabled him to gain vast experience in all aspects of the business from the ground up.

Wayne is a highly driven & focused individual who has over 20 years’ experience within international freight forwarding. He is always forward-thinking and has sound decision-making skills.