Owning its status as the childrenswear industry’s national show, for 2025, INDX Kids is returning as the INDX National Kidswear Show complete with a whole new look and the exciting addition of a new dedicated kids’ footwear show, all curated by buyers from Associated Independent Stores (AIS). CWB’s Laura Turner speaks to James Crabtree, Head of Fashion at AIS, and AIS Event Manager Varsha Chohan, to learn more.
Laura Turner: For anyone new to the industry, can you provide a brief history of INDX Kids, what it offers, and who it’s relevant to?
James Crabtree: AIS has been bringing the kidswear industry together at retail trade shows for over two decades. As the UK’s leading buying, service and events group for independent retail, we know a thing or two about what kidswear buyers are looking for. Our INDX Shows brand was created over 10 years ago and INDX Kids has since expanded to become the UK’s go-to trade show for all childrenswear suppliers and stockists. Showcasing over 150 leading brands, the show is curated by experts with a plethora of kidswear industry knowledge, bringing together unrivalled expertise across retail, buying and event management. INDX Kids is a twice-yearly event taking place in January/February and June/July. We spotlight both well-established and up-and-coming brands, providing a platform for new businesses to flourish alongside our key returning exhibitors.
LT: For 2025, INDX Kids will be returning as the INDX National Kidswear Show. What inspired the rebrand?
JC: All our INDX shows are always buzzing with business and orders, but some of our events have really taken the retail industry by storm. We’ve seen first-hand how much of an impact these shows have had, so we’re giving them the recognition they deserve. That’s why we’re excited to announce that INDX Kids is becoming the INDX National Kidswear Show for 2025.
LT: Does the rebrand reflect a new direction for the show?
JC: The rebrand instigates a completely revamped look and feel that will elevate the entire INDX experience. We’re also redefining our online presence with a fantastic new website offering a bold new look, a streamlined user interface, and content that pops.
LT: INDX National Kidswear Show will also feature a new stand system. Can you tell us more?
Varsha Chohan: To complement our rebrand, Cranmore Park will be introducing a cutting-edge, fully sustainable modular exhibition stand system for 2025. This innovative shell scheme is designed to accommodate any vision, empowering our exhibitors to create stunning, bespoke displays, and elevating the INDX experience to new heights.
LT: Will January’s edition of INDX National Kidswear Show be hosting any networking opportunities?
VC: We’re inviting all visitors and exhibitors to join us at our networking drinks event, which will take place onsite at Cranmore Park straight after the show finishes on Sunday evening. It’s an informal, relaxed, and always enjoyable chance for everyone to get together and catch up.
LT: INDX is also launching a kids’ footwear show for 2025. What can we expect?
VC: INDX shows are constantly evolving to keep up with the fast-paced retail world. We’re always on the lookout for new ways to equip retailers with the tools and connections they need to thrive. That’s why we’re excited to introduce fresh show formats, products and services. We’re thrilled to announce that we’re teaming up with the kids’ footwear industry to bring you a brand-new event… Get ready for the INDX National Kids Footwear Show, which will launch alongside the INDX National Kidswear Show on 26-27 January 2025. Look forward to a dedicated exhibition space, leading brands and exciting product, with more details coming soon.
LT: Why is a visit to INDX’s shows essential for anyone in the childrenswear industry?
JC: Quite simply, we’ve created the ultimate one-stop kids’ retail destination. Our West Midlands event home, Cranmore Park, is easy to get to and offers first-rate hospitality, and while we are open to all retailers, our pre-vetted admission policy ensures a professional, buying-focused environment. All in all, we’re providing a unique and unmissable opportunity for retailers and suppliers to connect, do business, collaborate and thrive.
Both INDX National Kidswear Show and INDX National Kids Footwear Show will take place on 26-27 January 2025. For further information and visitor registration, please click here.
