INTUITION

An interview with the organisers of MUNICH FABRIC START about the zeitgeist, trade shows and new chances

3. September 2024

The MUNICH FABRIC START is about to start. How does it feel to get going again after the challenges of the last few years?

Sebastian Klinder: It feels good! The industry has been in a thoroughly challenging situation. After the last VIEW in June this year, there is a slight upward mood. And that is exactly what we noticed during the preparations for this trade show. There is a cautious spirit of optimism, which has a motivating effect. MUNICH FABRIC START offers the perfect framework for transforming this positive energy and putting it into practice.

Frank Junker: Absolutely. It’s also the right time for us to come together again. The MUNICH FABRIC START is more than just a trade show – it is a platform where ideas are born and new paths are taken. I firmly believe that we need more joy and fun in the industry again. This is also reflected in our September programme: it is varied, inspiring and full of new ideas.

This season’s theme is ‘INTUITION’. What does this theme mean for MUNICH FABRIC START and the industry as a whole?

Sebastian Klinder: ‘INTUITION’ is the central contemporary theme for us because it reflects the way in which we can react resiliently to the current challenges both in society as a whole and in the fashion industry. Our industry is still undergoing disruptive change and it is at times like these that it is particularly important to trust your intuition. The main theme aims to highlight human emotion as a source of creativity. We want to focus on the instincts that help us make the right decisions in uncertain times. This is also reflected in the trends for Autumn.Winter 25/26, which focus strongly on resilience, dreams and a return to the essentials.

Frank Junker: Exactly, and it’s explicitly not just about fashion, but about the entire environment in which we operate. ‘INTUITION’ means that we have the courage to rely on our inner voice instead of just relying on hard facts and data. MUNICH FABRIC START provides the space where creativity and intuition can go hand in hand to drive innovation. It is an invitation to our industry to embrace the unknown and break new ground by relying on what you feel deep inside.

Sebastian Klinder (Managing Director) & Frank Junker (Creative Director & Partner), MUNICH FABRIC START

» INTUITION means that we have the courage to rely on our inner voice instead of just relying on hard facts and data «

This year’s motto at BLUEZONE is ‘DENIMINED’. What can visitors expect in this area?

Frank Junker: ‘DENIMINED’ is a neologism that reflects our deep commitment to denim. BLUEZONE has always been a place where tradition and innovation meet, and that will be the case again this time. Visitors can look forward to a wide-ranging programme, from new technologies in denim production to live design sessions. It’s about seeing denim not just as a fabric, but as part of a global culture that is constantly on the move.

Sebastian Klinder: Thanks to the runtime synchronisation of MUNICH FABRIC START and BLUEZONE, the two platforms will become an even more integrated ecosystem in which we can offer the denim community an even bigger stage. ‘DENIMINED’ brings together the A-Z of denim in the directly adjacent Zenith Area and showcases everything the industry has to offer. Whether sustainable production, innovative materials or creative designs – everyone will find something to inspire them here. The BLUEZONE is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the world of denim and experience the latest trends and developments up close.

MUNICH FABRIC START presents around 1,000 collections from international suppliers on around 40,000 square metres. Where do you see yourselves in this context and what are your next goals?

Sebastian Klinder: MUNICH FABRIC START has become one of the most important trade shows for the international fashion industry. But we prefer quality to quantity. We focus on gaining importance in different markets within Europe. Of course, the 40,000 square metres of exhibition space and around 1,000 collections show how diverse and dynamic our industry is. But above all, we are proud to once again make Munich the central venue for designers, product managers and the entire fashion industry. Numbers are not the ultimate measure for us – we are more interested in our show being a platform where not only business is done, but where trends are set and sustainable, value-adding and creative partnerships are established.

“Numbers are not the ultimate measure for us – we are more interested in our show being a platform where not only business is done, but where trends are set and sustainable, value-adding and creative partnerships are established.”

Frank Junker: In a nutshell, our show is where the industry comes together to shape the future of fashion. We offer different areas and themes that allow visitors to get informed and get inspired at the same time. It is this synthesis of diversity and structure that makes MUNICH FABRIC START so unique and a must for everyone in the fashion industry. And our goal is to continue to improve within these structures.

In addition to the hard business factors, the MFS always offers plenty of opportunities for networking and dialogue with industry experts. What can visitors expect?

Sebastian Klinder: This year we have put together a particularly rich programme of seminars and presentations. Topics range from sustainability best practice and supply chain challenges to internationally influential trend seminars – such as the Trendlectures by Li Edelkoort and Peclers Paris. As well as providing valuable insights, these events are a great opportunity to network with other industry experts and make new contacts. The legendary MUNIQUE Night Aftershow Party is one of the highlights, taking place as always on the evening of the first day of the show. Here, visitors can network in a relaxed atmosphere and gain new inspiration for their work through discussions.

Frank Junker: Effectiveness and flexibility are core principles of our work. Our aim is to create an authentic, competent, approachable and open event that meets market requirements. We listen carefully to our exhibitors, partners and visitors and use our lean structures to act boldly and decisively. MUNICH FABRIC START is a trade show that is constantly evolving to meet the needs of the industry. This is the reason why we will continue to play a central role in the fashion industry in the future.

How is MUNICH FABRIC START positioning itself at a time when the requirements for trade shows that reflect global markets are becoming increasingly complex?

Sebastian Klinder: We have responded to the changing requirements by shortening the duration of the trade show to two days without compromising on quality and service. This enables our exhibitors and visitors to use their time efficiently and still make all the important contacts and gather information. Our platform is designed to be flexible and adaptable – this reliability is our key to success in an age where change is the only constant.

Frank Junker: Effectiveness and flexibility are core principles of our work. Our aim is to create an authentic, competent, approachable and open event that meets market requirements. We listen carefully to our exhibitors, partners and visitors and use our lean structures to act boldly and decisively. MUNICH FABRIC START is a trade show that is constantly evolving to meet the needs of the industry. This is the reason why we will continue to play a central role in the fashion industry in the future.

How do you see the future of MUNICH FABRIC START and the fashion industry in general?

Sebastian Klinder: I am optimistic. The challenges of the last few years have shown us how adaptable our industry is. With MUNICH FABRIC START we are creating a platform that brings the right people together at the right time and in the right place. We are ready for what lies ahead. I am convinced that as an industry we will emerge stronger and more creative.

Frank Junker: The future is full of opportunities. If we continue to focus on our strengths – creativity, innovation and collaboration – there is no limit to what we can achieve. MUNICH FABRIC START will continue to play a key role in shaping that future in the years to come. I look forward to seeing how we can move the industry forward together.

Sebastian; Frank – thank you for the interview!

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