The Schoolwear Show is the biggest event in the schoolwear industry’s calendar and has been a key gathering for schoolwear retailers, suppliers and industry professionals for many years. This year’s event on 6-7 October includes a refreshed corporate image, a strong exhibitor line-up, and the return of the seminar programme. Here are the highlights of what’s in store.
As well as providing a platform for independent schoolwear retailers to connect face-to-face and foster connections with suppliers, peers and industry experts, The Schoolwear Show is an annual showcase of the latest collections, ranges, fabrics, designs, and customisation options in school uniform and related product. The event is also a source of education and inspiration, allowing visitors to explore the latest industry trends, regulations and business strategies, as well as gather ideas for their store to stay ahead of the curve.
Armed with refreshed branding, this year’s show will also play an integral role in uniting the industry and providing support and guidance in the face of industry challenges, including the potential impact of the new government’s uniform bill. The return of the event’s seminar programme, therefore, will provide a key source of insight and information, covering timely and essential topics alongside strategies designed to boost business, while enabling visitors to exchange ideas and build valuable relationships.
Seminars
The seminar schedule kicks off on Sunday at 11am with Dan Honour from Red Hawk, who will be advising retailers on how to reduce their energy bills. This will be followed at 4pm by a Q&A session for retailers and suppliers to include a “wine down.” On Monday at 11am, Marc Woolfson from WA Comms will host a 45-minute talk to provide an industry update and action plan followed by a Q&A. Monday will also include a seminar at 2pm hosted by Schoolwear Association (SA) Chair Matthew Easter and Deputy Chair Marie Bradburn, who will provide an update on the Association and its work. For further information on the SA, please click here or visit its dedicated stand at the show.
Exhibitors
In terms of exhibitors, you will find a mix of established suppliers and new faces that collectively provide a comprehensive overview of the latest in schoolwear, related product and services. In terms of school uniform, key players include 1880 Club, Banner, Charles Kirk, David Luke, Innovation Schoolwear, Magicfit, One+All, Trutex, and Winterbottom’s Schoolwear. Sportswear specialists include Chadwick Teamwear, Europa and Falcon, while footwear is available from Little Green Feet, POD and Term. For all your school accessories needs, including ties, socks, tights, rainwear, bags, nametapes, labels and stationery, don’t miss Dry Kids, Magicfit, Maped Helix, National Weaving, Pex, Roamie, Stabilo, Tie & Scarf Company and William Turner. The show line-up also includes relevant service providers such as embroidery specialists Brother and Madeira, school uniform fabrics from Marton Mills, and software and ecommerce experts Eskimo Epos and Top to Toe Epos.
Charity partner
The show’s charity partner, Goods For Good, will also be on hand to discuss its work, which includes delivering £53 million of overstocked goods to vulnerable individuals, providing hope and dignity for humanity while also reducing CO2 emissions by diverting goods going to landfill. Goods For Good has an annual Back to School initiative focused on collecting and distributing essential school supplies to children whose families are facing financial difficulties. Donations of unused schoolwear stock with logos go overseas to children living in abject poverty, while plain items go to vulnerable children in the UK. The charity also accepts preloved schoolwear, which is collected by school uniform retailers such as Uniform4Kids. Visit the Goods For Good stand at the show to learn more about supporting or partnering with the charity.
Show Information
The Schoolwear Show 2024, Cranmore Park, Shirley, Solihull, West Midlands B90 4LF
Sunday 6 October 2024, 9am – 5pm
Monday 7 October 2024, 9am – 4.30pm
For further information, please click here.
