FN Platform refreshes February trade show plan

By

Gabriella Lacombe

Published
Nov 28, 2018

Footwear trade show FN Platform is returning to Las Vegas this February with an updated program, debuting a new strategy that organizers have said will better serve the "constantly evolving" needs of buyers and retailers.

First, the trade show has altered its location: FN Platforms will move from its usual place in the South Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center to the North Hall, putting the footwear event closer to WWD's women's ready-to-wear and accessories show, WWDMagic. The new proximity will allow buyers to move more fluidly between the two shows, while the South Hall will be dedicated predominantly to manufacturing and sourcing vendors.

Both the FN and WWD trade shows are being produced by Informa-owned UBM Fashion. 

Another change to the February FN show will include a renewed concentration on retail relations and what the company has described as brand-retailer "matchmaking opportunities," as part of an initiative guided by David's Shoes founder, David Jassem. 

“We brought on David Jassem [...] to spearhead this program," said Leslie Gallin, president of footwear for FN Platform parent company Informa, in a release. "We want to bring new eyes to the product, and with the new location and layout, that will happen organically."

This push for a matchmaking boost will place special focus on independent boutiques, who the trade show will provide with "tools to navigate the show, including a new digital app and more educational offerings," according to FN Platform.  

The trade show will also commence its WIFI Impact Awards with an opening night cocktail party for added networking opportunities.

Finally, FN Platform plans to add new elements of design and décor to its February show, with the intention of debuting a full futuristic aesthetic at its August event.

These changes come after FN Platform's parent company Informa announced that it will invest $15 million over the next three years to grow its fashion portfolio. 

The February FN Platform floor plan will be divided into 6 sections, including Black Diamond, luxury women’s footwear; Cosmo, women’s fashion footwear; and Camp, women’s and men’s casual lifestyle, and advanced contemporary footwear.

The FN Platform trade show will take place from February 5 through 7.