Networking
Disruption and Transformation in the Textile Value Chain
Disruption and Transformation in the Textile Value Chain
Future Supply Chain Expert Panel Discussion at MUNICH FABRIC START
In the February edition of MUNICH FABRIC START, KEYHOUSE hosted an expert led panel discussion, merging their collective knowledge and experience under the topic, ‘Future Textile Supply Chain – Disruption and transformation through sustainability and networking in the textile value chain’. Moderated by Jana Kern & Alex Vogt of KERN.Consulting with Prof. Dr. Michael Braungart (Braungart EPEA), David Shah (View Publications), Hans H. Jung (Unity AG) and Dr. David Schmelzeisen (RWTH Aachen).
The fashion industry is currently facing unprecedented challenges as a result of COVID-19, especially critical are those concerning the global supply chain. Change is accelerated during these times and it has become crucially important to share our collective knowledge and expertise in order to develop positive, future proof solutions. On the KEYHOUSE stage, our industry experts exchanged their thoughts and expertise, offering their unique insights and key points for further action and reflection.
How attractive has the option of localisation become to companies?
While local production may look like an attractive alternative that could perhaps satisfy a growing standard of consciousness and need to keep up with demand, it is problematic because companies will always seek out the cheapest option, said David Shah as he offered a further insight:
“Turkey will become the new ‘China’ to Europe, just as Mexico will become the new ‘China’ for America.”
On the one hand, there are the typical pressures demanded from the point of view of the manufacturer which will always exists, such as; speed, price, product diversity, range and lifespan, speed of delivery as well as waste reduction. However on the other hand there is now a need to satisfy the consumer demand for those who are seeking a more meaningful experience, individuality and faster to market which is almost counterintuitive.
To what extent will consumer demand for sustainable manufacturing shape current business practices?
While fashion movements, professionals and activists advocate for greater transparency and traceability which can ideally change this damaging mind-set mentioned previously, panellist David Schmelzeisen believes it is still the case that the majority of end consumers want faster change times but at the same time lower prices. He believes that the controlling power does not yet lie with the conscious consumer, adding:
“We need to be more flexible and that is where digital technology comes in and why we will see a lot of changes in the future. For this we need smaller MOQ’s (Minimum Order Quantities) which is leading producers to look for new digital and technical solutions as well as new design solutions.”
How can digitisation provide a solution for more accurate production quantities?
Digitisation is transforming the entire supply chain, the connection between production and actual customer demand is getting closer. Hans Jung believes digital tools offer the unique opportunity to learn what the customer wants, such as with customer interface throughout all the different stages of usage, acting as a systematic feedback loop for optimisation. He states
“Production industries are now evolving and adding additional functions in a much more sustainable way than in the past.”
How crucial is the practice of circularity for the textiles industry in the future?
Circularity is crucial to the future of our industry and it should be explored as there is a lot of opportunity to build on this kind of system within the textile industry. Michael Braungart strongly believes the future lies in opening up the circular processes and materials which conventionally may be contained to only the textile industry. As these may have other relevant applications in production industries across various stages of the process and thus increasing the effectiveness of circularity. He also shared his crucial opinion that where brands use smart textiles, there must be an equally smart effort to communicate with the consumer. It is important to educate the consumer on how to use the product better for circularity to truly be in effect.
Want to know more? Watch the full discussion now available on our YouTube channel.
What to Expect From Munich Fabric Start
There is less than one week to go until we kick off the new season! We want to let you know what you can expect from MUNICH FABRIC START when you arrive in Munich on September 3-5.
International Brands
At MUNICH FABRIC START around 1.000 international exhibitors from 40 countries will present over 1.800 collections, including a comprehensive range of fabrics, trims and additionals, fabric finishing and manufacturing solutions, thus ensuring the proficiency and professionalism demanded by more than 20,350 trade visitors. We work with established specialists from all over the world who are ready to business on a global scale.
Networking
MFS provides an ideal opportunity for networking, the three day preview textile fair is guaranteed to be full of like-minded fashion and textile professionals. It is a great place to meet and exchange with new and existing partners who are also there to strengthen their business relationships and look for new opportunities.
Designs for the season
In addition to the new collections and previews on showcase for the new season AW2020/2021, we also offer you the possibility to view the highlights for SS2020. It has become more important than ever to curate sustainable fashion pieces using select fabrics which will transcend the seasons, with this new edition of our trend forum, we explore the power of slow fashion and sustainability which comes as standard, demanded by the new kind of conscious consumers.
An Event Tailored to You
Every aspect of the show is designed and organised with your requirements as designer, buyer or product manager in mind. We have created spaces that are perfect for working, relaxing, reflecting and recharging. We serve fresh coffee, snacks and tasty food all day long and we also invite you to a fun and relaxing Munique Moods event during the evening of September 3rd.
Trend Forecasting
We are a reliable source for future trends and leading indicators of trend styles and consumer behaviour. Our dedicated trend forum will showcase a hand-picked selection of fabrics, additionals and denim articles which define the new Autumn.Winter 20/21 season, a must see for those developing their new collections! The new COLOUR CODE and TREND BOOK publication release for Autumn.Winter 20/21 is planned for early August.
There is still plenty time to register for Munich Fabric Start this September 3-5 in Munich, we can’t wait to see you!
Prepare your visit to VIEW Premium Selection
VIEW Premium Selection is just over a week away and the excitement and anticipation is building for what is set to be a successful two days of networking and talking textiles. We cannot wait to welcome visitors old and new. Here are our top tips for making the most of your visit.
REVIEW OUR EXHIBITORS
Do a little research into what products you are looking for at your next visit. Ask you sales teams, what products are the most popular? What fabrics will be essential for your new collections? Are you missing those all important details? Perhaps you will be searching for small, local businesses or large international manufacturers. It is important to understand your needs and consider these when approaching an exhibitor. Check out our list of exhibitors in advance here.
SET UP MEETINGS
From our handy list of exhibitors online we also provide the relevant contact details for the company exhibiting at our show. Schedule meetings with your existing partners as well as new brands in advance. Our top tip, make sure to specify the meeting area, there are several handy locations on site such as cafes, lounge areas, outside eating and relaxing area, as well as seating areas spread throughout the halls.
PREPARE BUSINESS INFORMATION
Get ready to talk minimums, turnaround times and of course price. Take advantage of your time at VIEW with targeted questions about the product offering, pricing and manufacturing support.
MAINTAIN CONTACTS
Are there more people you want to meet at VIEW? Use your time at the fair in Munich to meet with colleagues, brands or representatives from your agencies. Plan time to maintain these business contacts perhaps with a lunch or dinner with partners and friends – for example at the VIEW Sundowner on Tuesday, 16 July from 18.30pm
VISIT THE VIEW WEBSITE
Our website shows important information such as the location, times, directions, product offerings and more. Check out the VIEW website here.
RELAX AND RECHARGE
Take care and remember to schedule time for recharging and refueling. Browse our trend and ReSOURCE areas for inspiration between meetings allowing you to discover new brands and visit interesting exhibitors.
LET US INSPIRE YOU
Surrounded by beautiful and diverse fabrics, denim and additionals offerings it will be difficult to not feel inspired in this hugely creative and beautiful atmosphere. To make the most of it, take notes of your favourite samples from our trend areas and be sure to pay the maker a visit.
REGISTER FOR YOUR TICKET IN ADVANCE
Our booking system requires each visitor to hold their unique visitor account with us, it is therefore faster and recommended to register for the event in advance. To ensure the event is well attended by industry professionals we ask for proof of affiliation which you can upload online. Register to attend VIEW here.
BOOK TRAVEL AND ACCOMMODATION
Munich is a busy city with many events and tourism, booking your accommodation in advance is the easiest way to ensure a stress-free stay in our beautiful city. Check out ahead of the event what’s the best way to travel around the city, SBahn, UBahn, Tram, Bus or Uber. Plan your travel to the MVG Museum here.
PLAN ACTIVITIES IN AND AROUND MUNICH
Make your trip even more enjoyable and make time for doing something fun! Munich is a beautiful city with many attractions, great connections to surrounding villages and as well as the mountains. Shopping, sports, sightseeing, hiking, Instagramming or simply soaking up the sun in any of our Beer Gardens, beer in hand of course!
CONNECT WITH US
Share your fair experience with us online, tags us in your photographs and use our event hashtag #viewmunich. Perhaps the best way to boost your company and designer profiles as well as connect and gain exposure from a broader audience.
There is still plenty time to register for VIEW on July 16th-17th in Munich!
We can’t wait to see you!