Designers in the spotlight: Why Scoop remains the ultimate showcase for retailers

From emerging talent to established names, Scoop continues to be the show for designers seeking a beautifully curated setting and inspiring environment to unveil their latest collections. As the UK’s only premium womenswear show, and increasingly a destination for European buyers, Scoop consistently attracts top-tier retailers eager to discover the next standout collection. This season, we spotlight the creative forces behind the fashion and discover why Scoop remains a must-see show in the global style calendar.

We spoke to leading fashion agents Daniel Morris, Co-Founder Morris Fyfe Agency, David Smith, Director Level One Showroom and Ian Campbell Smith, Co-CEO Palladio Associates to learn why Scoop remains such a powerful platform for the designers they represent. For Daniel Morris, Scoop offers more than just exposure, it's a key driver of growth. “It’s not only the only premium womenswear show in the UK, but increasingly one of the most relevant also in Europe,” he explains. “Our brands are proud to have their collections on display at Scoop.”

Having exhibited continuously for over five years, Morris points to the show’s thoughtful curation and consistent quality of buyers as reasons for returning season after season. “The curation of the show is so important. The brand and exhibitor mix means that, without fail, the quality of visitors makes it worthwhile - whether we take orders at the show or in our showroom because of meetings at the show,” he says.

David Smith, Director of Level One Showroom, echoes this sentiment. “The well-curated layout and the show's neutral stands ensure that no brand has an unfair advantage, creating a balanced and inclusive experience for all exhibitors,” he notes. “Scoop draws influential buyers and has helped launch the showroom’s most successful brands.” Smith, whose showroom has shown at Scoop since 2019, is particularly enthusiastic about this season’s new lineup. “We’re excited to showcase Desigual, Compañía Fantástica, Grace & Mila and Chicosoleil—new additions to Scoop that fit perfectly with its vibrant, diverse mix.”

Compañía Fantástica

Among Morris Fyfe’s standout brands this season are Devotion Twins and Sorena from Greece, Emily Lovelock from India, and Alix the Label from Holland—each one chosen to reflect Scoop’s distinctive aesthetic. These brands have seen real momentum thanks to the show: “Devotion Twins launched at Scoop in 2020, and each season has been more successful than the previous,” Morris shares, “Sorena launched in 2023, and the unique DNA of the brand has attracted both key account retailers and some of the best independents in the country.”

Smith believes, for Level One designers, that it’s consistency and exposure that makes Scoop invaluable. “It’s the ongoing opportunity to present fresh collections in a focused environment that has been crucial in building brand visibility and driving steady sales growth.”

Retail partnerships forged at Scoop underscore the show's influence. Morris lists names like Brown Thomas, Selfridges, Anthropologie, and The Dressing Room among their clients. “Too many to mention,” he says, “but many of our strongest relationships began at Scoop.”

Among the show’s most loyal supporters is Ian Campbell Smith, Co-CEO of Palladio Associates, whose agency has now shown at Scoop an impressive 24 times. “We have been long-term advocates of the show,” he says. “The reason we come back is that it is an event that puts UK and Irish buyers front and center with brands that are relevant to the market in an easy-to-shop environment.”

Campbell Smith praises the event’s unique flair and creative energy. “Scoop has moved the dial in terms of what buyers expect from a UK fashion trade show. It is slick, well thought out, visually an assault on the senses, and what an inspiring fashion trade show should be.” He cites the show’s famous floral displays and curated ambiance as hallmarks of its distinct identity: “It’s the amount of thought and creativity that goes into each show which makes every edition unique.”

This July, Palladio Associates brings with them standout names such as Vilagallo, Sofie Schnoor, Handprint Dream Apparel, Orfeo Paris, and the newly launched Psophia, a debut collection from the original founder of Hoss Intropia. “We’re super excited to launch Psophia at Scoop,” he adds. “It features beautiful unity, striking sculptural shapes, and elevated fabrics & details.”

Psophia

Reflecting on the impact of the show, Campbell Smith is clear: “Scoop did change our business in a hugely positive way. Our overall turnover leapt from the first edition we took part in, and it’s now an essential part of our business planning.” It’s not just about numbers, Scoop also continues to be a powerful gateway to new markets, “We work with several buyers from the Caribbean, that we would not have met with in any other circumstance.”

Scoop’s buyers programme also plays a vital role in nurturing new talent. “Karen is always supportive of new brands and brings interesting buyers to the show,” says Campbell Smith. He also believes the event is well-positioned to respond to changing consumer preferences, “With the increased shift to a faceless shopping experience, we feel that the role of the independent retailer will become more sought after and appreciated by those seeking service and social interaction. Scoop attracts the best of the independents and helps us maintain our customer portfolio.”

Looking ahead to this season’s show, Campbell Smith is enthusiastic about the move to a new venue, “We are super excited for the move to National Hall Olympia and feeling the buzz of a busy show. We’re also looking forward to catching up with our peers and forging new and maintaining existing relationships.”

Beyond business, all three agents agree that Scoop has become more than just a trade event, it’s a moment of creative renewal and community. “It’s an essential part of how we stay relevant,” says Morris. “Scoop always keeps us aware of up-and-coming labels, both homegrown and international.”

With its unique balance of style, substance, and community, Scoop remains the go-to destination for those looking to discover what’s next in fashion.

Europe’s most innovative lifestyle event will open its doors at Olympia National Kensington, 13–15 July, with an edited line-up of premium women’s fashion as well as luxury home, beauty, and lifestyle collections. Visitors will discover over 200 new and emerging designer labels in a beautiful space designed to make the buying process seamless. Visit https://scoop-international.com/home for more information.

Further reading: Scoop announces new venue and campaign for SS26

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