As global supply chains undergo transformation and consumer demand shifts, industry platforms focused on fast-growing markets are becoming increasingly important. One such platform is the BRICS+ Fashion Summit, which will take place in Moscow from 28 to 30 September. It is the largest international Fashion Business Forum of Fast-Growing Economies and is included in the list of accredited BRICS events. Over several seasons, it has brought together representatives from more than 100 countries.
Professional Expertise
Most of the growth in global demand for fashion goods is now coming from Asia, Latin America, Africa and the Middle East – and the BRICS+ Fashion Summit offers direct access to these markets. The event enables participants to find manufacturing partners, develop industry standards and explore growth strategies in new markets within a short timeframe.
The BRICS+ Fashion Summit speaker line-up reflects the event’s high level of professional expertise. This season’s speakers include leading industry experts and visionaries, among them Yeli Gu, Founder of Ontimeshow, Susan Sabet, Board Member and Secretary General of the Egyptian Fashion & Design Council; Ozlem Sahin Ertas, Founder and CEO of Modest Fashion Weeks by Think Fashion; and Mahlet Teklemariam, Founder of Hub of Africa Addis Fashion Week.
Susan Sabet explains what draws professionals from different markets to the forum: “The BRICS+ Fashion Summit is an essential event on the global fashion calendar because it brings together a growing network of international fashion industry leaders, designers, manufacturers, educators, investors, and experts from diverse markets. The Summit provides a unique platform for meaningful dialogue and collaboration around the key challenges and opportunities shaping the future of fashion”.
The Business Agenda
The BRICS+ Fashion Summit programme covers the key areas shaping the development of the global fashion industry: the use of artificial intelligence in design and manufacturing, the application of advanced materials, certification and standardisation, the role of craftsmanship in modern supply chains, and distribution in the platform economy.
The discussion, however, is shaped by a different perspective. While in London these issues are primarily considered from the point of view of brands seeking optimal manufacturing and distribution solutions, the focus in Moscow is on the opportunities available to producing countries looking to develop their own brands and strengthen their export potential.
“The next generation of global luxury does not have to come from traditional fashion capitals,” notes Nichole M. Bess, Founder and CEO of Noir Fashion Week from the USA and a regular forum participant. She believes that platforms such as the BRICS+ Fashion Summit are shaping a new generation of contemporary fashion. “I believe BRICS+ brands have the potential to become global competitors, not simply regional alternatives. Consumers are increasingly looking for originality, cultural authenticity, and new perspectives. The opportunity is there; the challenge is building the infrastructure, investment, distribution, and visibility that allow these brands to compete globally,” says Nichole.
Remarkable Energy
Moscow, which hosts the BRICS+ Fashion Summit, is one of the key centres of the fashion business, combining a substantial consumer market, well-developed urban infrastructure and a growing local brand landscape. With a population of more than 13 million, the city has seen steady growth in its fashion industry – increasing by 50% over the past five years – alongside the continued development of digital retail, while its cultural and business venues are well equipped to host international events.
As Sergio Puig, Director of Mediterranea Fashion Week Valencia, notes: “Moscow has made a very strong impression on me. There is a remarkable energy, professionalism and ambition within the Russian fashion scene. Russian designers demonstrate a strong identity and a willingness to experiment while remaining connected to their cultural background. I was also impressed by the Moscow audience: it is curious, sophisticated and genuinely interested in discovering new designers and new aesthetics. There is a real appreciation for creativity and for the experience surrounding fashion”.
Practical Value for UK Participants
Participation in the BRICS+ Fashion Summit enables UK companies to establish direct contacts with representatives of fast-growing markets, evaluate the potential of new manufacturing hubs and suppliers, and align with standards and requirements relevant to target markets.
Ozlem Sahin Ertas, Аounder and CEO of Modest Fashion Weeks by Think Fashion, shares this view: “Having attended previously, what impressed me most was the diversity and quality of the fashion ecosystems represented in one place. Several connections I made in Moscow continued beyond the Summit, opening opportunities for international collaboration, designer exchange, and market access,” says Ozlem.
The event combines the functions of a business platform and an industry conference, providing participants with access to up-to-date expertise and opportunities to conclude partnership agreements.
The upcoming Summit will take place from 28 to 30 September.
David Prior
David Prior is the editor of Today News, responsible for the overall editorial strategy. He is an NCTJ-qualified journalist with over 20 years’ experience, and is also editor of the award-winning hyperlocal news title Altrincham Today. His LinkedIn profile is here.
