Advanstar Communications Inc. today announced the appointment of Jon Kapelson as vice president of menswear at MAGIC International – the world’s most influential and comprehensive fashion trade event. Jon will lead the team to redesign and expand Menswear at MAGIC, and oversee national and international growth and expansion.
“Jon is a 4th generation menswear retailer and this business is in his blood. His experience, understanding and perspective of the menswear business is second to none,” said Chris DeMoulin, MAGIC International President and Executive Vice President of Advanstar’s Fashion Group. “Jon is widely known by vendors and retailers for his integrity, creativity and merchandising expertise. We are excited to see his impact at our August show.”
“MAGIC is the perfect place for me. I know this arena and can’t wait to dig in and get moving,” said Jon. “I am excited to work with the MAGIC team to make the show better than ever and help our customers attain their goals.”
Along with his brothers, Jon owned and operated Kaps, a multi-million dollar better men’s specialty chain in Massachusetts. With stores in Andover, Burlington, Marblehead and Wellesley, the Kap’s legacy began over a century ago with the opening of a haberdashery in Lawrence, Massachusetts. For 123 years, the Kapelson family ran the shops with an assortment of brands including Canali, Bruno Magli, John Varvatos, Cole Haan, Hugo Boss and Ermenegildo Zegna.
Jon has also been an active member of The Forum Group, a leading association of 14 fashion merchandising companies from around the country who have the common goal of sharing information in an effort to learn more about the business and stay one step ahead of the curve.
Known for its twice a year MAGIC Marketplace in Las Vegas, MAGIC International is the world’s largest and most widely recognized organizer of trade shows for the apparel industry. Its premier event MAGIC Marketplace features MAGIC, WWDMAGIC, MAGIC kids, and Sourcing at MAGIC, PROJECT, and Pool.
The next event takes place August 31 – September 2, 2009 in Las Vegas, NV. For up-to-date exhibitor listings, seminar scheduling, travel support and registration information, please visit www.magiconline.com.
Source: Magic International, Woodland Hills, CA, May 12, 2009
