While 2020 trade shows remain in flux as a result of the global COVID-19 pandemic, Première Vision is providing the industry with hope that in-person events are not a thing of the past.
The event organizer confirmed its flagship event Première Vision Paris will go on as scheduled from Sept. 15-17 at the Parc des Expositions de Paris Nord Villepinte—but it will look slightly different.
For one, the physical show will be supplemented with a digital show for those who can’t attend in person, providing exhibitors with greater visibility across the globe. In addition, the physical show will meet all required government health protocols through the use of digital badges, disinfectant gel and masks, and an updated, spacious layout for social distancing procedures.
The show will also include its “second generation” marketplace, a B2B e-commerce platform launched in 2018, which will feature Fall/Winter 2021-2022 collections and online business discussions in preparation for show visits. Exhibitors have had free access to the marketplace, with the opportunity to showcase an unlimited number of products, since mid-March. Show and seminar access is also free for all visitors who pre-register before August 31.
In April, Première Vision announced it would feature a “denim village” at the marquee event to supplement the May Denim PV show it was forced to cancel. No word yet on how it will be incorporated into the digital show.
“The decision to organize this event, which is first and foremost a physical one, and our investments in new developments designed to optimize our marketplace, and thus more generally the service we provide to the entire global market, testify to our commitment to help the entire industry once again meet, get back on its feet, and begin its recovery,” said Gilles Lasbordes, Première Vision general manager. “We are determined to allow those producers who have placed their trust in us to maintain direct contact with their customers.”
The digital show will include a program of content, services and digital tools to support the creative fashion industry and address the strategic questions on how to move forward through the unprecedented times.
