The Indx Intimate Apparel Show last weekend took the bold move of hosting a two-day show at the Cramore Park site. Whilst welcomed by some brands, it was felt by many that a third (be it a shorter) day was essential going ahead. AIS members were well represented but there was less footfall from the smaller independent shops which help create a buzz around the event and this in part at least was due to the staging of the Wonderland Show just two weeks earlier.
Brands such as Cyberjammies who opted to do only one show this season were happy with the customers that they met and who placed orders. Mark Tweed, Brand Director, commented: “INDX is a convenient show which enables us to showcase our brands in the best way with space. We had pretty full diaries for the two days. It’s a cracking order writing show. We realise that time away from their stores and added costs of travel sometimes make it a difficult decision to attend trade shows.”
Spokesperson for Patricia Eve Agencies said: “We believe we have to be at INDX Intimate Apparel Show – and we also want the usual 3-day format. The first two days are filled with meeting our existing customers and completing their orders but we then miss those shops who are interested in our product offer but we do not have time to talk them through it.”
Guido Buck of Mey said that they also had a steady attendance but missed the footfall from indies and that the show felt a little flat.
Mary Cameron, MD of Chantelle UK, which had one of the busiest stands at the event, commented: “We did have a very steady show across the two days. But I guess we are in a dilemma too in that it is proving expensive to try and attend two shows a season.”
Mandy Dixon, Sales Manager UK & Ireland for Panache Lingerie, added: “We had a steady show during the two days with a dip later on Sunday. Buyers are excited with our new collections.”
Lizzie McMillan, Head of Sales for UK & Ireland at Triumph and Sloggi, commented: “We will continue to do both UK trade shows … at least for now. They are very different environments for both exhibitors and visitors so we will see what happens after the Summer shows.”
Some of the promised improvements to the fixtures and fittings had been implemented for the February show with more to follow for the July 2025 event. Speaking to James Crabtree, Head of Fashion at AIS Stores, he commented: “It is clear that the vast majority of brands and visitors will require a three-day Show in July. We were pleased that the AIS members were in attendance but realise we need to work harder to have a better representation of smaller independent shops and stores. We are already working to achieve this for next season.”
The next edition of INDX Intimate Apparel will be held from 27-29 July 2025.