What's Happening?
Rick van Rijthoven and Lucel van den Hoeven, founders of the fashion trade show Shift, have acquired the remaining shares of Modefabriek, a prominent Dutch fashion trade show. This acquisition marks a new phase for Modefabriek, which has been a central
figure in the Dutch fashion industry for decades. Van den Hoeven, who co-founded Modefabriek in 1996, has been closely associated with the company since its inception. The acquisition allows the founders to focus on further developing the event and enhancing its position within the fashion industry. The next edition of Modefabriek is scheduled for July 5 and 6, 2026, at Taets Art & Event Park in Zaandam, featuring a modified layout to improve visitor experience.
Why It's Important?
The acquisition by van Rijthoven and van den Hoeven is significant as it consolidates leadership under the original founders, potentially bringing renewed vision and innovation to Modefabriek. This move could strengthen the trade show's influence in the fashion industry, particularly in the Netherlands. The founders' focus on development and sustainability aligns with current industry trends, which could attract more brands and professionals to the event. The changes in leadership and event structure may also impact the broader fashion trade show landscape, setting new standards for efficiency and sustainability.
What's Next?
With the new ownership structure, Modefabriek is expected to undergo further development under the guidance of its original founders. The upcoming event in July 2026 will serve as a platform to showcase these changes. Additionally, the founders' previous experience with the Shift trade show, including its expansion to international locations, suggests potential for Modefabriek to explore similar growth opportunities. Stakeholders in the fashion industry will likely monitor these developments closely, as they could influence future trade show formats and collaborations.
