The number of visitors from outside of France increased this season. Thanks to the strong presence of export clients, the number of visitors to the WHO'S NEXT show rose from 36% to 38% in comparison to last July, confirming the international relevance of the WHO'S NEXT trade show.
A total of 36,810 visitors passed through the doors of the Porte de Versailles between 4th and 7th July.
Although the show witnessed an overall drop of 15%, closely linked to the decrease in the number of French visitors (-18.4%), the “buyer” category continues to evolve. Exhibitors have noted the presence of quality buyers as well as large numbers of international origin, who were on the look out for designer pieces and strong products. If the central walkway appeared calmer than usual, it can be largely attributed to the increase in the size of this space (from 7000 to 18,000m2) and the changeable weather conditions during the weekend of the show.
BUSINESS
This edition saw a great number of international buyers arrive at the Porte de Versailles for the first time. Representatives from beautiful boutiques in Asia, Italy and the Middle East made the trip from Paris, many of them on the hunt for mid-high range products.
CLOTHING
With regards to FAME, the climate remained positive and satisfactory throughout the show. The selection and the scenography were praised by buyers: the layout of the hall, on a slant, continues to be well-received by visitors and encourages the flow of traffic in the aisles. EVENING WEAR greatly suffered as a result of the absence of the Middle East, due to the Ramadan dates, even if great international numbers were present. Designer brands and the reference points for each area of WHO'S NEXT READY-TO-WEAR have been able to negotiate the current economic climate. Some, who were participating in the show for the first time and in the midst of established brands, sealed a number of contracts. The involvement of exhibitors in a number of different events, (bars, the catwalk show) was very much appreciated.
PREMIERE CLASSE visitors were generally pleased with their participation in the show. The new layout of this zone in Hall 4, close to FAME, was well received. For WHO'S NEXT ACCESSORIES, which was for the first time situated in Hall 5, the assessment is a story of contrasts. Despite the localisation of the offer at the entrance to the show, designed to energise the traffic, and the numerous attractions at the heart of the hall, certain exhibitors struggled to establish contacts. The economic crisis and the buying calendar for the leather goods and footwear sectors can be seen as the root causes for this sedate buying climate. The MARO & GO show, which will be held from 14th - 16th September this year, will provide much opportunity for the confirmation of sales objectives.
ASSESSMENT
The trend forum, the conferences and the free services, such as the Retail Expert Club, were a great success; these tools allowed visitors and exhibitors from both France and abroad to easily decode the trends and the market.
Fashion Catwalk Video July 2014:
#wsn14 catwalk show - S/S15 // from WHO'S NEXT on Vimeo.
Learn more about the Who's Next fashion industry trade show from Paris.
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