INTERNATIONAL BRANDING SPECIALISTS

Manila FAME continues the story it began in October 2011, bringing the show to a level that is beyond design, beyond skill, and beyond artisanship. International experts Michael Cleghorn and Linda Simpson are back for Merchandise Specialist Program, leading the development of export products that combine quality, design, and value, inspired by the global trends: Paradiso, Tribal Fusion, and Stone Age.

MICHAEL CLEGHORN

Michael Cleghorn is an International Business and Branding consultant as well as a retail and product development leader in furniture and homeware.

For the last 20 years, Cleghorn has worked with various organizations to ensure that their products authentically reflect their brand essence and personality. These organizations include Freedom, David Jones, Sheridan, Breville, Zak Designs, and Disney Corporation. Products he developed can be found in Crate and Barrel, Williams-Sonoma, Conran, Printemps House of Fraser, and Selfridges.

LINDA SIMPSON

Linda Simpson is recognized internationally for her innovative merchandising strategies and extensive experience in product design, development, sourcing and licensing. Her areas of expertise include, Home Furnishings, Decorative Accessories, Holiday Trim, Tabletop and Fashion Accessories.

Simpson has developed several dynamic, multimillion-dollar programs for companies such as Bloomingdale's, Associated Merchandising Corporation (AMC), Syratech Corporation (Wallace International, Towle Silversmiths, International Silver, Melannco), SILVESTRI, DEMDACO, and Enesco/Department 56 and ENESCO. Simpson currently leads her own successful consulting organization called Imagination Network.