The Kingpins Show, focusing on the denim supply chain, will showcase over 100 exhibitors and a special section dedicated to high-quality Japanese denim in Amsterdam on April 16-17, 2024.
The upcoming Kingpins Show, which focuses on the denim supply chain, is set to take place on April 16-17, 2024, at the Sugar Factory in Amsterdam. This edition marks the first time the event will be exclusively organized by Messe Frankfurt, with Vivien Wang serving as the new CEO.
The trade show will feature over 100 exhibitors encompassing various segments of the denim industry, including manufacturers, fiber specialists, chemical and finishing companies, and producers geared towards technological advancements. A highlight of this year’s event will be the introduction of a special section dedicated to high-quality Japanese denim, showcasing esteemed brands such as Kurabo, San Marino, Rainbow Textiles, Betty Smith, Big John, Ideablue, and Japan Delivery Service.
Vivien Wang remarked on the significance of Japanese denim within the Kingpins framework, stating, “Japanese denim has been central to Kingpins since our very first show. We appreciate the quality and craftsmanship of Japanese denim fabric and jeans makers and created a special section within the Kingpins show to highlight the work of a curated selection of companies.”
While some brands like Kurabo have been longstanding participants since the show’s inception in 2004, others like San Marino are new entrants. San Marino operates textile and apparel manufacturing facilities across Japan, Italy, China, and ASEAN countries, adding diversity to the offers at the show.
This special section will be located near The Boxes on the ground floor of the Sugar Factory, easily accessible to visitors who can spot an oversized denim kimono commissioned by Kingpins, created by Showa, a sustainable denim manufacturer from Kurashiki. Inside the Made in Japan enclave, attendees will have the opportunity to enjoy matcha tea while exploring the curated collections from various exhibitors.
Additionally, the show will host a series of discussions and presentations aimed at sharing insights and exploring industry trends. On April 16, a panel titled “Denim drought: tackling water waste in fashion” will convene at 1 PM to discuss water conservation strategies involving experts from mills, chemical companies, and brands.
The following day will include discussions on advancing technology in the denim design and production processes. At 11 AM, a panel featuring representatives from Rajby Industries and D_Archive will showcase projects utilizing 3D and AI technologies for replicating historic apparel. This will be moderated by Darren Glenister from Material Exchange.
Furthermore, at noon, Nick Baur and Max Kaupp from Lildenimjean will present alongside Jeremy Sebaoun from Paradoxe, discussing their inspirations and perceptions of the future of denim.
Capping the programming at 2:30 PM will be a session led by Michael Morell from Freedom Denim, designed to introduce students to denim and jeans fundamentals, thus cultivating interest in the industry among the next generation.
Among other initiatives, ZDHC will host a session on sustainable chemical management in denim production, presenting responsible textile production methods through partnerships with OEKO-TEX® and Testex. Additionally, Material Exchange will present “The Best of Denim,” featuring collections of sustainably sourced denim that minimizes water use and specifies innovative textile qualities.
The Kingpins Show promises to be a significant platform for networking and knowledge exchange within the denim industry, setting the stage for future developments while maintaining a focus on sustainability and innovation.
Source: Noah Wire Services
