Students and faculty members at the North Carolina State University College of Textiles are participating in the 2006-2007 Guest Lecture Series focusing on “Consumerization.” The Guest Lecture Series consists of multiple lectures given by two leading industry professionals who provide a forum for students and faculty to interact with global executives. The Series focus on global business strategies, current textile information and the changing dynamic in the global marketplace.

Marshal Cohan and Sally Kay are providing the Guest Lecture Series for 2006-2007. These indsutry experts provide a unique and varied perspective on the subject of “Consumerization.”

Marshal Cohen Chief Industry Analyst for the NPD Group, Inc

Marshal Cohen is currently the Chief Industry Analyst for the NPD Group, Inc. Mr. Cohen’s lectures have offered insights into data application and industry topics specific to the NPD Group, Inc. Mr. Cohen has stressed the importance of understanding your businesses’ macro-environment while never losing sight of your company’s internal goals and objectives.

Sally Kay is currently the President of the Hosiery Association. Her responsibilities include spokesperson, media relations expert, and committee and Board liaison. Ms. Kay’s experience with the Hosiery Association enabled her to supplement Mr. Cohen’s lectures, which provided additional insights into todays global textile complex.

The first lecture of the Guest Lecture Series focused on "Understanding Today's Consumer." Mr. Cohen stressed the importance of not only analyzing micro factors in terms of consumer behavior, but macro-factors as well. Sally Kay supported Mr. Cohen’s presentation with specific examples related to textiles through the hosiery industry.

The second lecture "Today's Luxury Market," provided keen insights related to pure luxury, aspirational and affordable luxury models. Graduate students discussed with Mr. Cohen the economic determinants as it relates to “Consumerization.” Both Mr. Cohen and Ms. Kay discussed the shift in the traditional luxury market to a more affordable luxury market due to the current economic state. In addition, graduate students continued this discussion with a focus on the future of retail in the changing luxury market.

Sally Kay President, Hosiery Association

The third lecture, "Power Branding," addressed innovative branding stratagies and brand position. Graduate student forum allowed individuals the opportunity to ask questions related specifically to their research topic. Mr. Cohen presented information regarding the difference between traditional marketing and lifestyle marketing as it relates to branding a company.

In addition to the scheduled lectures both Marshal Cohen and Sally Kay took the time to meet individually as well as in small break-out sessions with undergraduate and graduate students. Senior TAM student Ian Raulston states, “The 2006-2007 Guest Lecturer Series really gave me an insight into the luxury market and the importance of branding.”

The 2006-2007 Guest Lecture Series has been a premier opportunity for students to actively engage with some of the most respected, forward-thinking business leaders in the world today. Dean Blanton Godfrey states, “This program is a wonderful fit with the Universities’ ongoing effort to become a truly engaged institution.” The link between the academia and professional minds provides a unique forum for innovative thoughts and ideas to present themselves in understanding the textile industry and all that it entails.

College of Textiles
P.O. Box 8301
Raleigh, NC 27695-8301
Telephone: (919) 515-6646
FAX: (919) 515-3733
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Last Site Revision:
February 2, 2006