The fifth edition of the IFCO Istanbul Fashion Connection, held from February 7-10, 2024, witnessed a remarkable turnout, welcoming a record-breaking 38,545 visitors. The event, hosted at the Istanbul Expo Centre across eight expansive halls, saw participation from 545 exhibitors who engaged with international trade visitors hailing from 159 countries worldwide.
A diverse array of attendees from across the globe graced the event, highlighting its international significance. The Middle East constituted the largest contingent at 33.4 per cent, followed closely by Europe at 24 per cent, with Asia and North Africa contributing 23.3 per cent and 13.3 per cent, respectively. Notably, 6 per cent of visitors represented regions including the USA, South America, Australia, and Africa, underscoring the event's global outreach.
Exhibitor satisfaction
Mustafa Paşahan, Vice President of İHKİB, expressed immense satisfaction with the event's success, emphasizing its pivotal role as a nexus for the global fashion industry. Exhibitors lauded both the quality and quantity of visitors, alongside the creative presentations and high-caliber products showcased.
Spanning an extensive 100,000 sq m, the exhibition featured distinct zones showcasing the latest collections across various fashion domains. Notably, 'The Core Istanbul' embraced the Color of the Year 2024, boasting a peach-colored ambiance and hosting 25 acclaimed designers.
In the 'IFCO Brands' section, leading market players like Armine, Giotelli, and Kayra captivated attendees with trendy displays, showcasing their latest collections and fostering international business opportunities.
Specialized showcases
Lingerie and hosiery manufacturers were showcased in the LinExpo section, while FashionIST presented a diverse range of bridal and evening wear selections, reinforcing the event's comprehensive scope.
The event's unprecedented attendance reaffirmed its stature as a premier international fashion hub. Notable international buyers, including 6th Street Apparel and Ted Baker, leveraged the platform for networking and order placements.
IFCO collaborated with the Fashion Designers' Association for the first time, enriching the event with curated projects and thematic engagements. Additionally, the inclusion of educational institutions and innovative trend showcases added depth to the visitor experience.
Insights and outlook
Expert sessions highlighted industry trends, emphasizing a shift towards sustainable fashion and digital transformation. The Turkish textile and clothing sector's robust performance further underscored the nation's pivotal role in the global fashion landscape.
With plans underway for Texhibition Istanbul in March 2023, IFCO continues to fortify its position as a comprehensive platform for the international fashion trade. The forthcoming edition, scheduled for August 7- 9, 2024, promises to further elevate industry standards and foster global collaboration.
