Los Angeles: The Preface trade show, held on January 22–23, debuted initiatives focused on sustainability, including carbon footprint tracking and collaboration with recycling expert Ambercycle, while Betsy Franjola announced the establishment of Hocking Hills Garment Center to boost local manufacturing and employment.
The latest boutique trade show, Preface, took place in Los Angeles on January 22–23, bringing a new focus on sustainability to the forefront of the fashion industry. Organised by Betsy Franjola, founder of BFF Studio, this year’s event collaborated with Ambercycle, a leading textile-to-textile recycling company renowned for its innovative product, cycora. The venue was chosen to further reinforce the commitment to sustainable practices within the apparel sector.
Franjola highlighted a significant milestone for the show: “This year marked a significant step forward in our commitment to sustainability—we began tracking our carbon footprint for the first time. It’s essential for our show to not only discuss change but to actively embrace it.” She introduced a focal initiative during the trade show—a call to action encouraging participants to consider, “What is just one thing you can do—personally or as a brand—to make a positive change in the industry?” This interactive approach resonated with attendees, promoting rich discussions and the sharing of ideas aimed at enhancing sustainable apparel manufacturing.
“We’re not just here to showcase materials but to foster collaboration and inspire actionable steps toward a more sustainable future,” Franjola remarked, emphasising the dual purpose of Preface not only as a showcase but also as a movement towards eco-consciousness in fashion.
In addition to her role at Preface, Franjola has been proactive in expanding her sustainable initiatives beyond the trade show. She recently established the Hocking Hills Garment Center (HHGC) in her hometown of Buchtel, Ohio. The centre aims to provide employment opportunities while supporting domestic manufacturing, operating both as an industrial sewing school and an apparel manufacturer.
“Southeast Ohio offers a lower cost of living for a workforce looking for new industry opportunities,” Franjola explained. “The goal is to bring living-wage manufacturing to the community. Incorporating one-piece flow lean manufacturing, our production methods eliminate waste and offer flexibility for small-batch to mid-size production needs.”
The launch of HHGC was a collaborative effort, with Franjola engaging various organisations to strengthen resources and secure funding. Notable support came from the Ohio University Social Enterprise Ecosystem, the Survivors’ Advocacy Outreach Program, a grant from the U.S. Department of Labor, and assistance from the Athens County Economic Development Council, which helped secure a vital $50,000 grant for the garment centre.
Through these efforts, Franjola is contributing to the broader conversation around sustainable fashion, upcycling, and the imperative of slow fashion paradigms. By focusing on second-hand clothing, she is highlighting the importance of reducing environmental impact and promoting greener practices within the industry. The developments at Preface and HHGC showcase innovative solutions intended to empower readers and attendees to make sustainable style choices that do not compromise on aesthetics, thereby reinforcing a growing movement towards a more responsible fashion industry.
Source: Noah Wire Services
