As the global textile recycling market hurtles toward a projected $11.88 billion valuation by 2030, Source Fashion is redefining the trade show experience. Launching at Olympia London from January 13-15, 2026, the new 'Fashion Deconstructed' zone marks a significant shift from passive sourcing to active, ‘material intelligence’ education. This immersive hub arrives as 72 per cent of mid-tier brands face mounting pressure to redesign collection strategies to meet strict new circularity metrics.
Scaling circularity through live tech demonstrations
The program's centerpiece-a live circular denim demonstration by LaundRE - highlights the industry's move toward waterless ozone and laser reprocessing. In an era where traditional denim finishing can consume up to 3,781 liters of water per pair, LaundRE’s tech-driven approach offers an 80 per cent reduction in water usage. These sessions allow designers to witness firsthand how post-consumer textiles are reconditioned, addressing the critical "transparency gap" where 59 per cent of publicly-listed brands still fail to provide basic supply chain traceability.
By integrating workshops from luxury salvage pioneers Elvis & Kresse and traditional handloom weavers, Source Fashion is capitalizing on the ‘Quiet Luxury’ trend, where craftsmanship is the ultimate differentiator. As Gen Z and millennial buyers increasingly prioritize durability, these workshops serve as a blueprint for the Rs 44.8 billion (approx. $5.3 billion) textile-to-textile recycling market expected by 2034. The initiative empowers retailers to move beyond greenwashing by understanding the ‘maker’ side of fashion, turning mending and upcycling from niche crafts into scalable, profit-driving ESG pillars.
Source Fashion is Europe’s premier destination for responsible sourcing, acting as a gateway between global audited manufacturers and high-profile retailers. The trade show connects designers and buyers with ethical manufacturers, raw material suppliers, and sustainable service providers across 25+ countries.
