While Yarn Expo has long been the leading choice for fabrics manufacturers for sourcing, in recent editions it has attracted more brand buyers as well. As the fashion industry has evolved in recent years, so too has Yarn Expo’s position and importance in the market. Fashion brands are more experienced nowadays in terms of yarn and fiber selection, and are having more impact on the look and function of the fabrics, which is flowing through to the final outcome of the garment. The need for brands to stay ahead of the latest fashion trends and textile innovations in such a competitive environment makes it vital they can source at a comprehensive event with innovative and quality suppliers, which has propelled Yarn Expo to become one of the most influential fairs on the textile calendar.

Another trend noticed at Yarn Expo is the strong demand for emerging products such as fancy and specialty yarns and synthetic fibers. Last year’s autumn edition saw 55 per cent more buyers sourcing fancy yarns compared to 2016, 40 per cent more for specialty yarns and over 30 per cent for synthetic fibers.

This growth is also reflected in the number of trade buyers choosing Yarn Expo as their sourcing platform in recent years: from 7,375 in the 2015 autumn edition to 17,185 from 84 countries and regions last year.