Source Fashion sees 'record-breaking' visitor numbers

Responsible sourcing show Source Fashion, running from 18-20 February at Olympia London, saw record visitor numbers through the door on its opening day.

The event features responsible manufacturers from around the world with a spotlight on the UK, Portugal, Egypt, India, Indonesia and Nepal.

Buyers, retailers, and sourcing professionals from NEXT, John Lewis, Reiss, ASOS, Harrods, Barbour, Hunter Boots, Sophia Webster, Evans, Lipsy, The Hippie Shake, Fortnum and Mason and French Connection were among the wide ranging attendees.

Suzanne Ellingham, Event Director of Source Fashion, said: "I’m thrilled that today has seen record numbers of visitors come through the door. That’s including serious buyers from the UK’s largest brands and retailers who are looking to forge new relationships and do better business.

"Our mission is to connect international manufacturers with UK and European buyers seeking responsible sourcing solutions, and the show is delivering on this promise."

Nicola Kirby, Head of Sourcing, Fashion and Home at John Lewis, added: "Sourcing is really important to us, and having an event like this so close to our head office in London allows us to connect with both new and existing suppliers.

"We’re seeing exciting opportunities in emerging markets, including Egypt and Indonesia, alongside strong tailoring expertise here. Specifically, we are looking for new childrenswear suppliers and exploring ways to expand our sourcing network. The event provided a crucial platform for discovering new suppliers, discussing regional trends, and assessing sustainable solutions.

"We’ve been to every show so far and this year is bigger and more vibrant than ever. There’s a strong presence of buyers, fabric suppliers, and garment manufacturers. The discussions around circularity and global sourcing challenges have been particularly valuable."

The Source catwalk show, held three times a day, has "captivated audiences" with trends such as ‘Reconstructed’, ‘Circus’ and ‘Romance’, complemented by a vibrant swimwear story curated by sustainable stylist Rebekah Roy.

Closing the catwalk shows, headline designer Stuart Trevor, founder of AllSaints and a passionate sustainability advocate, unveiled contemporary designs crafted from sustainable and repurposed materials for his new eponymous label.

The panel discussions on the Source catwalk stage and lively conversations on the Source debates stage also drew crowds with a series of thought-provoking talks from industry professionals discussing the latest trends and topics in sustainable fashion.

Speaking on the Source catwalk stage, Nick Reed, founder of Neem London, chaired a panel discussion titled 'From Fast Fashion to Circularity - Encouraging Consumers to Embrace Sustainable Fashion Models'.

Meanwhile, Charlotte Pumford, Head of Sustainability at Vivobarefoot, highlighted three key elements for circularity. Firstly, slowing down production by focusing on local, on-demand manufacturing. Secondly, designing products with intentionality for repair, durability and recycling. And lastly, maintaining transparency to understand the impact of manufacturing.

Jackie Andrews-Udall, Sustainability Director at Johnstons of Elgin, emphasised two categories of circular textiles - ‘soil-to-soil’ biodegradable materials and recyclable textiles that can be reintroduced as new products. Wool and silk were both held in high regard for their recyclability and ability to nourish the soil at the end of their life.

On the Source debates stage, topics ranged from how to produce less while maintaining the same level of profit, to the use of authentic language, building trust, and what can be perceived as "greenwashing".

The liveliest debate of the day came when Giovanni Beatrice, founder of Forward in Fashion, joined Sherin Hosni, Executive Director of the Apparel Export Council of Egypt, to discuss North Africa's potential as a sourcing alternative to Asia.

Beatrice highlighted a shift from traditionally low cost Asian manufacturers towards more sustainable sourcing, driven by environmental concerns and stricter legislation. The pair noted growing interest in African countries such as Morocco, Tunisia, and Egypt, emphasising the importance of matching products to the right markets while minimising environmental impact.

Beatrice said: "Currently Turkey has a very important role in supplying the UK and the EU market. However, due to inflation and increasing cost and minimum wage, the business is being forced to move. The next best country that also makes fabrics and trims is Egypt, and right now, Egypt is a magnet for everybody that's struggling with production in Turkey.

"Next to that, it's all about environmental impact. If we look at nearby countries, Egypt has the lowest minimum wage and zero import duties to the EU. The industry is also looking to increase its near-shoring solutions. If we manufacture in Asia, and transport the goods by boats, environmental impact is high but if you do the same in Egypt, environmental impact is much less."

New to the show, Egyptian Pavilion is showcasing 20 companies highlighting the exceptional quality, craftsmanship, and sustainability practices of Egyptian manufacturers. It is offering UK and European buyers an unparalleled opportunity to source responsibly, reinforcing Egypt’s growing reputation as a leader in sustainable fashion production.