Hosiery Firms Turn Toward Global Markets

In November 2005, MDCP began work with Hickory, North Carolina based Hosiery Technology Center (HTC) to boost the competitiveness of U.S. hosiery producers. HTC works closely with MDCP in preparing U.S. firms to enter and commit to new foreign markets.

Trade Shows

HTC has provided a staff member dedicated to working with U.S. firms at foreign trade events. ITA staff also continue to provide pre-event planning and onsite support at these events. In fact, U.S. firms have continued to trade in Germany and Japan because of MDCP and HTC trade shows in these countries.

Success

HTC's strategy has paid off. Many U.S. hosiery producers who have suffered from waning domestic orders have found that consumers in Japan and northern Europe appreciate the quality hosiery that U.S. producers offer. Since HTC began its MDCP partnership with ITA in November 2005, it has helped U.S. firms generate more than $26 million in exports.