Eighth edition kleine fabriek: enthusiasm and optimism

05 Feb '09

3 min read

On the 11th and 12th of January 2009, the eighth edition of children's trade fair kleine fabriek took place in the Amsterdam RAI. On 13.000 sqm, the fair offered a strong combination of traditional brands and exciting newcomers in the field of clothing, shoes, interior accessories and toys. The number of foreign visitors increased again, this time with 11%. This was appreciated by the exhibitors. There were visitors from Italy, Belgium, Spain and Germany, and from England and Sweden, but even from the United States and Japan.

Despite the gloomy economic forecast, the number of visitors remained stable (in total 5.500), in comparison with last winter edition. Right after opening on Sunday morning, it was immediately crowded: “The amount of visitors in our stand was evenly divided over the two days of the fair,” says Evelien Vlasblom from old time exhibitor Moodstreet. “Once again, there were a lot of foreign visitors, for example from Belgium, Ireland, Scandinavia and Germany.” This edition Moodstreet successfully launched their XS Feet collection for babies from 0 to 6 months. It attracted a great number of people. “It also struck me that the atmosphere was super optimistic, you wouldn't tell there were any economic difficulties.”

Also Lianne Schim van der Loeff from agency Pingo de Mel praises the pleasant atmosphere of the fair. She represents the ecological baby accessories line Noonoo and interior- and kids' accessories label Zid Zid Kids and participated for the fifth time. “A great start of 2009! I am happy I was there.” What she appreciates most about this fair is the effort that has been put into the styling of the whole fair, with beautiful flowers and nicely decorated terraces. Very professionally done.”

A total of 447 labels (in 251 stands) participated in this show. This means a growth of 10% in the number of brands on offer. This edition, kleine fabriek presented a “new design” section, where small and new brands had the possibility to launch their collection on the Dutch market. Many visitors appreciated this possibility to discover new labels. Patricia Hessing was there with new children's furniture label STEK. “For us this section was a great opportunity to see how visitors would react to the products. From the enthusiastic reviews and feedback, we're happy to conclude that we're on the right track.” There was also a lot of interest from the press: “All in all, the fair was very open, it's easy to meet the right people.”

The visitors were satisfied about the fair as well. The German Jürgen Steybe has two shops in Germany, he sells clothing, furniture and toys. “Here I can find all under one roof. Also the combination of renowned brands, such as Replay, with smaller labels appeals to me. Here I can find new products.” Laura Bergsma from De Droomvlinder is a regular visitor. “My main focus is new stuff, but kleine fabriek also offers a perfect opportunity to meet my suppliers. It is a beautifuland spacious fair, it all looks very chic.”

On Sunday, children walked the isles of kleine fabriek in a children's parade - organised in collaboration with the international magazine, Kid's Wear. The children were all styled in a combination of Old Dutch costumes with fashion of various brands, exhibiting at kleine fabriek.

Many exhibitors have already indicated they plan to join kleine fabriek again next Summer edition on 5 and 6 July 2009.

kleine fabriek

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