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. The 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 follows the departure of Caroline Krouwels as CEO, who had implemented a more compact and efficient setup for the trade show during and after the pandemic. The upcoming edition of Modefabriek is scheduled for July 5 and 6, 2026, at Taets Art & Event Park in Zaandam, featuring a modified layout and a focus on sustainability and young designers.
Why It's Important?
The acquisition by van Rijthoven and van den Hoeven is significant as it brings the original founders back to the helm, potentially revitalizing Modefabriek's influence in the fashion industry. This move could enhance the trade show's role as a key meeting place for fashion brands, retailers, and industry professionals. The focus on sustainability and young designers aligns with current industry trends, potentially attracting a new generation of fashion professionals and consumers. The changes in leadership and strategy may also impact the broader fashion trade show landscape, influencing how such events are organized and perceived in the future.
What's Next?
With the new ownership structure, Modefabriek is expected to undergo further development and strategic changes. The upcoming edition in July 2026 will serve as a test for the new layout and focus areas. The founders' experience with the Shift trade show, which has expanded internationally, may lead to similar expansions or innovations for Modefabriek. Stakeholders in the fashion industry will likely watch closely to see how these changes affect the trade show's reputation and influence. The departure of Caroline Krouwels as CEO and her continued advisory role may also influence the transition and future direction of the organization.
