Thousands of visitors from brands like Clarks, French Connection, PepsiCo, and Amazon gathered at Olympia London for day two of Source Fashion, Europe's largest responsible sourcing show. The event featured seminars on trends, legislation, and big-brand sustainability approaches.
Event Director Suzanne Ellingham emphasized collaboration, education, and storytelling as keys to improving the fashion industry. Attendees listened to fashion activist Caryn Franklin and former ASOS CEO Nick Beighton discuss leadership and sustainability. Beighton highlighted the need for purpose-driven brands and transparent production practices, advocating for conscious capitalism to drive positive change.
Jack Stratten of Insider Trends spoke on the significance of storytelling in brand loyalty amidst AI-fueled fast fashion. Mike Coates from the UK Competition and Markets Authority addressed greenwashing and the importance of transparency in product journeys.
Afternoon sessions included a fireside chat with Jo Mourant of Next Retail on responsible sourcing challenges and opportunities. Hayley Shore from PepsiCo showcased a new sustainable fashion collection, stressing the importance of traceability and collaboration.
Caryn Franklin returned to discuss the intersection of culture and politics in fashion with Tina Wetshi, Creative Director of Colechi. They highlighted the need to re-humanize fashion by reconnecting it with nature and agriculture.
The final day of Source Fashion promises talks on education and certification, including the Developing Countries Trading Scheme and Global Organic Textile Standard. The event aims to foster an ecosystem where the industry can discuss big issues and success stories in a safe space.