The International Sourcing Expo and the Footwear and Leather Show are set to return to Melbourne in November following a three-year absence.
In addition, Melbourne will also host the PayPal Melbourne Fashion Festival in mid-October.
This is a major refresh for the city, following strict lockdowns this time last year for the state.
Co-located with the China Clothing Textiles Accessories Expo, the International Sourcing Expo and the Footwear and Leather Show combine to provide sourcing direct from the manufacturer.
With over 300 exhibitors from south-east Asia to Africa to the Middle East, including a large participation from China in their co-located event, the combined events will connect global apparel manufacturers, service providers and fashion labels with trade buyers and industry professionals from Australia and New Zealand.
The International Sourcing Expo includes a seminar series, featuring revered industry professionals from around the world, sharing their thoughts and examining the big issues and changes occurring in international sourcing and fashion trends.
The Footwear and Leather Show will bring a range of exhibitors, including manufacturers, suppliers, exporters, and other industry leaders.
The combined event will run from November 15-17 at the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre.
International Exhibition & Conference Group CEO Marie Kinsella said the event will bring the world to Australian fashion professionals.
“In light of Covid, which has made international travel more difficult and cost prohibitive, we see the two shows as providing a one-stop local shop,” Kinsella said.
“We’re so excited about reinvigorating relations, and witnessing the business opportunities that will transpire, between our apparel and textile industry and global suppliers.”
Visitors to the International Sourcing Expo will have the opportunity to discover new trends in fashion and manufacturing, as well as connect with international manufacturers, suppliers, agents, and industry experts.
There is also the opportunity to order direct from suppliers, as well as networking with international industry contacts.
The Footwear and Leather Show also brings networking and sourcing opportunities through footwear and leather goods.
The 2019 expo saw more than 4,000 visitors, from large fashion retailers to start-up labels, including Peter Alexander, Myer, Kookai, Lincraft, Cotton On Group, Fila, Forever New, and Wittner.
The events will be held in a Covid-safe format, with an additional and related sourcing event to be held at the Sydney Exhibition Centre in June 2023.