Informa PLC

https://www.informamarkets.com

Informa PLC is a global leader in B2B events, digital services, and academic markets, headquartered in London, England. Its mission is to connect specialists with knowledge, enabling businesses and professionals to learn, know, and do more across various industries. Informa Markets, a key division of Informa PLC, specializes in creating platforms for industries and specialist markets to trade, innovate, and grow.

Informa Markets operates a portfolio of over 450 international B2B events and brands, delivering live exhibitions, conferences, specialist digital content, virtual events, online marketplaces, and actionable data solutions. Its extensive market segments include Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals, Infrastructure, Construction & Real Estate, Fashion & Apparel, Hospitality, Food & Beverage, Health & Nutrition, Technology, and Manufacturing. The "Manufacturing by Informa" focus specifically caters to the advanced manufacturing industry, covering areas such as automation, robotics, energy efficiency, packaging, plastics, and processing, through events and media. Additionally, Omdia, an Informa brand, provides market intelligence for industrial automation.

Informa PLC is a publicly traded company listed on the London Stock Exchange under the ticker LON:INF and is a constituent of the FTSE 100 Index. Stephen Carter serves as the CEO of Informa PLC, while Patrick Martell is the Group Chief Operating Officer and CEO of Informa Markets. Recent highlights include strong financial results for 2025, continued expansion through strategic partnerships like the creation of inD with Dubai World Trade Centre, and the launch of initiatives such as the Sustainable Manufacturing Expo by Informa Markets Engineering.

Latest updates

MAGIC Nashville Signals Southeast Fashion's Resilience Amidst Shifting Retail Landscape

Event summary

  • MAGIC by Informa in Nashville concluded April 28–29, 2026, at the Music City Center.
  • The event featured over 225 brands, with 90% of registered attendees originating from the South or Midwest.
  • A representative from Prince Peter Collection highlighted the event’s value for relationship building with key accounts.
  • MAGIC is scheduled to return to Nashville May 11–12, 2027.

The big picture

MAGIC Nashville underscores the continued importance of regional trade shows in a fragmented retail landscape. While digital platforms are gaining traction, the event's focus on fostering community and showcasing local talent suggests a persistent demand for in-person networking and trend discovery. Informa's strategy of blending scale with curation, as evidenced by the event's format and educational programming, aims to cater to both large retailers and smaller boutiques, but faces the challenge of maintaining relevance in a rapidly evolving market.

What we're watching

Regional Focus
The event's heavy reliance on the South and Midwest suggests Informa is prioritizing regional market penetration, which could limit scalability if broader trends shift.
Activation ROI
The success of FashionGo's activations (giveaways, happy hours) indicates a potential shift towards experiential marketing at trade shows, but the return on investment for these initiatives warrants close monitoring.
Trend Volatility
The emphasis on gameday and western wear trends highlights the fashion industry’s susceptibility to rapid shifts in consumer preferences, requiring Informa to adapt quickly to maintain relevance.

Manufacturing Event Focuses on Initiative Failures, Automation

Event summary

  • MD&M South 2026 will be held April 22-23, 2026, in Charlotte, North Carolina.
  • Keynote speaker Logan McKnight will address the prevalence of failed initiatives in MedTech, focusing on structural solutions.
  • Blue Sky Robotics CEO Steven King will discuss leveraging VR, AI, and robotics for automation.
  • Sessions will cover lean and smart manufacturing synergies, contract manufacturing relationships, and workforce development strategies.
  • The event is organized by Manufacturing by Informa, a subsidiary of Informa plc.

The big picture

The MD&M South event highlights a growing concern within the manufacturing sector: the difficulty of translating strategic initiatives into tangible results. The focus on automation and workforce development underscores the ongoing need for manufacturers to adapt to technological advancements and address persistent labor shortages, particularly within the $3 trillion advanced manufacturing industry. The prevalence of failed initiatives suggests a systemic problem requiring more than just vendor demos to resolve.

What we're watching

Execution Risk
The focus on initiative failure suggests a deeper problem within MedTech organizations; whether McKnight’s proposed solutions will gain traction and lead to measurable improvements remains to be seen.
Technology Adoption
While VR, AI, and robotics offer automation potential, the event's success hinges on attendees’ ability to translate theoretical insights into practical implementations within their existing infrastructure.
Talent Pipeline
The emphasis on workforce development indicates ongoing challenges in attracting and retaining skilled labor; the long-term effectiveness of the strategies discussed will depend on broader economic conditions and industry-wide adoption.

MD&M South Partners Signal MedTech Ecosystem Expansion

Event summary

  • MD&M South, a medical device manufacturing and healthcare innovation event, announced a network of industry partners for its 2026 edition.
  • The event features a Sustainability Zone hosted by the South Carolina Manufacturing Extension Partnership (SCMEP), including an interactive gallery wall and sustainability maturity model.
  • The Healthcare Businesswomen’s Association will moderate a MedTech Peer-to-Peer Networking session.
  • TAG Awards will recognize breakthrough technologies with an award program and Innovation Wall showcase.
  • NC State University Industry Expansion Solutions will host a Students for Student & Younge Professionals P2P session and an on-site podcast room.

The big picture

MD&M South's emphasis on partnerships highlights the increasing complexity and interconnectedness of the medical device manufacturing sector. The event's focus on sustainability, talent, and regional collaboration reflects broader industry trends driven by regulatory scrutiny, demographic shifts, and the need for greater resilience in supply chains. Informa Markets, as a major B2B event producer, is positioning itself to capitalize on these trends by facilitating connections and knowledge sharing within the $3 trillion advanced manufacturing market.

What we're watching

Sustainability Focus
The prominence of sustainability initiatives, particularly SCMEP’s presence, suggests increasing regulatory and investor pressure on MedTech companies to reduce environmental impact, which could affect capital allocation and R&D priorities.
Talent Pipeline
The SWE panel and NC State’s student outreach indicate a continued struggle to address the engineering talent shortage, potentially impacting manufacturing capacity and innovation timelines.
Ecosystem Growth
The breadth of partnerships, including academic institutions and regional alliances, signals a broader effort to build a more integrated MedTech ecosystem in the Southeast, which could intensify competition for resources and market share.

Informa Resurrects Sourcing Event in New York, Targeting Agile Fashion Supply Chains

Event summary

  • SOURCING by Informa will return to New York City in Fall 2026, co-located with COTERIE at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center.
  • The event aims to create a unified fashion sourcing marketplace, featuring over 700 exhibiting brands and attracting thousands of attendees.
  • 75% of attendees are direct buyers, with brands like Bloomingdale’s, Anthropologie, Shopbop, and Printemps represented.
  • SOURCING in New York will focus on low MOQs, short lead times, and vertical integration options to meet demand for agility.

The big picture

Informa's decision to revive SOURCING in New York reflects a broader trend toward localized and agile supply chains within the fashion industry, driven by shifting consumer demand and geopolitical uncertainties. The event’s integration with COTERIE and the New York Marketplace signals a strategic move to consolidate Informa’s presence in a key fashion hub and capture a larger share of the $400+ billion US apparel market. This move also suggests a response to the increasing pressure on fashion brands to shorten lead times and offer more customized, sustainable products.

What we're watching

Market Positioning
The success of the event hinges on whether Informa can effectively differentiate SOURCING from existing New York fashion trade shows and attract both exhibitors and buyers seeking agile supply chain solutions.
Sustainability Focus
The emphasis on sustainable solutions suggests Informa is attempting to cater to evolving consumer preferences and retailer mandates; the actual adoption of these practices by exhibitors will be a key indicator of the event’s long-term relevance.
Regional Impact
The event’s focus on the Northeast market could create a ripple effect, influencing sourcing strategies for regional brands and potentially impacting competition within the broader US fashion industry.

Battery Show South to Spotlight AI's Energy Demands

Event summary

  • The Battery Show South 2026 will be held April 22–23, 2026, in Charlotte, North Carolina.
  • North Carolina has attracted $20.4 billion in EV manufacturing investment, supported by $314 million in federal funding.
  • Christopher Chung (Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina) will keynote on the state's role in the 'Battery Belt'.
  • Brad Li (Sineng Americas) will discuss the energy demands of the AI economy and its impact on battery technology.
  • The event is organized by Manufacturing by Informa and co-located with Electric & Hybrid Technology Expo South and Energy Storage South.

The big picture

The Battery Show South's focus on AI's energy needs underscores a critical, often overlooked, aspect of the electrification transition. The event highlights the growing demand for battery technology beyond EVs, driven by the exponential energy requirements of data centers and AI infrastructure. This shift could reshape investment priorities and accelerate innovation in large-scale energy storage solutions, potentially creating new market opportunities and intensifying competition.

What we're watching

Regional Focus
North Carolina's aggressive EV investment strategy could create a ripple effect across the Southeast, potentially drawing competition from other states seeking to establish battery manufacturing hubs.
AI Dependency
The increasing reliance of AI on battery technology and energy storage will likely accelerate demand and pricing pressures within the battery supply chain.
Informa's Expansion
Informa's rapid expansion of the Battery Show franchise (South, Asia) signals a belief in continued growth, but success hinges on maintaining relevance and avoiding fragmentation across regional events.

EU Battery Policy & Scale-Up Challenges Dominate Battery Show Europe Agenda

Event summary

  • The Battery Show Europe 2026 will be held June 9–11, 2026, in Stuttgart, Germany.
  • Keynote speakers include Jennifer Karle (European Commission) and leaders from Umicore, CATL, and Mercedes-Benz.
  • The event will focus on battery innovation, electrification, sustainability, and global competitiveness.
  • Discussions will center on Europe’s battery future, scale-up challenges, and the implementation of the EU Battery Regulation.
  • Early bird registration ends April 10, 2026.

The big picture

The Battery Show Europe underscores the strategic importance of battery technology for Europe's industrial future and its commitment to achieving climate goals. The event’s focus on policy, scale-up, and technological innovation reflects the intense competition for dominance in the global battery market, particularly as the EU seeks to reduce reliance on Asian suppliers. The discussions around the EU Battery Regulation highlight the growing regulatory pressure on battery producers to ensure traceability and sustainability throughout the value chain.

What we're watching

Policy Impact
The European Commission’s policy initiatives and funding mechanisms will significantly shape the trajectory of battery manufacturing scale-up, and the success of the Net Zero Industry Act and Industrial Accelerator Act will be a key indicator of Europe’s competitiveness.
Execution Risk
The panel discussion on cost competitiveness will highlight the challenges of scaling battery production in Europe, and the ability of European manufacturers to overcome energy costs, workforce limitations, and regulatory uncertainty will determine their long-term viability.
Tech Adoption
The debate around solid-state batteries versus alternative chemistries will reveal the evolving priorities of European battery producers and the potential for disruptive technologies to accelerate the energy transition.

MAGIC Nashville Signals Southeast Fashion's Resilience Amidst Retail Shifts

Event summary

  • MAGIC by Informa will hold its Nashville event April 28-29, 2026, at the Music City Center.
  • The event will feature over 225 brands, with 35 new brands debuting this year.
  • Educational sessions will cover topics including color trends, website marketing, TikTok sales, and collection building.
  • The event focuses on women’s fashion and game-day apparel, highlighting both national and regional brands.

The big picture

MAGIC Nashville's continued presence signals the resilience of the Southeast fashion market, even as broader retail landscapes face disruption from e-commerce and changing consumer preferences. Informa’s focus on curated collections and educational content aims to differentiate the event from purely transactional marketplaces, but the success hinges on attracting both established brands and emerging regional players. The event’s scale, while significant, needs to demonstrate tangible value to justify participation in an increasingly competitive environment.

What we're watching

Regional Focus
The emphasis on local and Southern brands suggests a deliberate effort to cater to a specific geographic market, potentially indicating a broader shift towards regional specialization within the fashion industry.
Digital Adoption
The inclusion of a TikTok-focused session underscores the increasing importance of social media for retail sales, and whether MAGIC can effectively integrate these strategies into its broader offerings.
Educational Value
The quality and relevance of the educational sessions will be crucial in attracting and retaining retailers, and whether Informa can consistently deliver actionable insights beyond basic trend forecasting.

Sungrow, Huawei Top Inverter Bankability Ratings Amid Policy Shifts

Event summary

  • PV Tech Research released a new quarterly report assessing the risk profile of PV inverter manufacturers.
  • Sungrow and Huawei achieved top-tier AAA ratings in the report, reflecting their market share.
  • The report highlights a slowdown in the residential inverter segment due to factors like high interest rates and policy changes.
  • Chinese inverter manufacturers are expanding production facilities outside China due to policy changes and market access concerns.
  • SMA Solar faces declining profitability and an Altman-Z score indicating potential bankruptcy risk, though it expects a turnaround by 2026.

The big picture

The PV inverter market is undergoing a significant shift, with utility-scale inverters becoming increasingly important as residential growth slows. New policies targeting Chinese manufacturers are creating both opportunities and risks for global players, forcing a reassessment of supply chains and production strategies. The bankability ratings underscore the dominance of Chinese firms but also highlight vulnerabilities stemming from geopolitical tensions and regulatory changes.

What we're watching

Geopolitical Impact
The effectiveness of non-Chinese inverter manufacturers in capitalizing on EU and US policies restricting Chinese imports will determine their ability to gain market share.
Financial Resilience
Whether SMA Solar can achieve its projected return to positive EBIT by 2026 will be a key indicator of the viability of European inverter manufacturers against Chinese competition.
Policy Shifts
The pace at which the Inflation Reduction Act’s equipment sourcing requirements are implemented will significantly impact the competitive landscape and investment decisions within the US inverter market.

High-Speed Design Sector Poised for $975B Growth Amid AI Infrastructure Surge

Event summary

  • DesignCon 2026 concluded March 25, 2026, in Santa Clara, California.
  • The conference focused on high-speed communications and system design, featuring 15 technical tracks and panels.
  • The global high-speed communications and system design sector is projected to reach $975 billion in annual sales in 2026.
  • Keynote speakers included Joseph Lukens, Mark Ren, and Bhanu Sood, covering topics from quantum internet technologies to AI applications.

The big picture

The continued expansion of the high-speed communications and system design sector is directly tied to the explosive growth of AI infrastructure, which requires increasingly sophisticated chip, board, and system designs. Informa Markets' position as a leading B2B events organizer in this space provides a valuable window into the evolving needs of engineers and technologists. The $975 billion market size underscores the strategic importance of this sector to the broader technology landscape.

What we're watching

AI Integration
The rapid adoption of AI-driven design tools will likely intensify competition among design software providers, potentially leading to consolidation or disruptive new entrants.
Supply Chain
Geopolitical tensions and component shortages could constrain the growth of the high-speed communications sector, requiring manufacturers to diversify suppliers and build resilience into their supply chains.
Quantum Computing
The development of quantum internet technologies, while nascent, represents a long-term disruptive force that could reshape the entire architecture of high-speed communications.

Fashion Trade Shows Expand Digital Reach as Industry Rebounds

Event summary

  • FASHION by Informa’s COTERIE and MAGIC events concluded in New York, showcasing women's contemporary and Fall/Winter 2026-2027 fashion trends.
  • COTERIE featured brands like Joe’s Jeans, Pistola, and Mou, alongside a ‘Après Ski’ neighborhood with sustainable vintage pieces.
  • MAGIC’s event included brands like America & Beyond and Barefoot Dreams, with educational sessions on trend forecasting from Future Snoops.
  • A digital extension of COTERIE, in partnership with JOOR, ran for two weeks prior and six weeks after the physical event.
  • The next COTERIE and MAGIC events are scheduled for September 9-11, 2026, coinciding with New York Fashion Week.

The big picture

The COTERIE and MAGIC events represent a crucial touchpoint for the fashion industry, facilitating connections between brands and retailers. Informa’s expansion into digital platforms and focus on sustainability reflect broader shifts in the retail landscape, where online channels and ethical sourcing are increasingly important. The events’ alignment with New York Fashion Week underscores the importance of these platforms in shaping seasonal trends and driving commerce within a multi-billion dollar market.

What we're watching

Digital Adoption
The continued expansion of digital event components, facilitated by JOOR, will be a key indicator of Informa’s ability to reach a broader, global audience and potentially reduce reliance on physical events.
Sustainability Focus
The emphasis on sustainable and upcycled vintage pieces within COTERIE suggests a growing consumer demand and Informa’s attempt to cater to it, which could impact brand selection and event format moving forward.
Trend Forecasting
The reliance on Future Snoops for trend forecasting highlights the importance of accurate predictions in a rapidly evolving fashion landscape; misaligned forecasts could lead to inventory issues and reduced retailer engagement.

Fashion Marketplace Signals Shift to Lifestyle Apparel, Supply Chain Focus

Event summary

  • Fashion by Informa’s Las Vegas marketplace concluded last week, hosting over 1,800 exhibitors and global attendees.
  • MAGIC showcased trends like 'Tough and Tender,' 'Functional Flair,' and 'Wild Heritage,' alongside educational panels.
  • PROJECT highlighted the growing influence of golf, skate, and streetwear-inspired apparel.
  • SOURCING facilitated connections between manufacturers and retailers, emphasizing sustainability and a new assessment program.
  • OFFPRICE offered retailers competitively priced merchandise, with discounts of 20-80% off wholesale costs.

The big picture

Fashion by Informa's marketplace underscores the evolving dynamics within the apparel industry, with a clear pivot towards lifestyle categories and a heightened focus on sustainable supply chains. The event’s scale, hosting over 1,800 exhibitors, positions it as a bellwether for broader shifts in consumer preferences and industry practices. The inclusion of the Sustainability Assessment Program signals a move towards greater accountability and transparency within the fashion ecosystem.

What we're watching

Consumer Shifts
The increased focus on golf and streetwear apparel suggests a broader shift towards lifestyle-driven fashion, which could impact traditional apparel categories and require brands to adapt product offerings.
Supply Chain Resilience
The emphasis on global supply chain connections and sustainability at SOURCING indicates ongoing pressure to diversify sourcing and reduce environmental impact, potentially affecting margins and requiring investment in new technologies.
Assessment Impact
The adoption of the Sustainability Assessment Program powered by Hey Social Good will likely influence exhibitor behavior and potentially create a tiered marketplace, impacting brand perception and competitive dynamics.

MedTech Manufacturing Focus Shifts to AI, Sustainability at MD&M West

Event summary

  • MD&M West, a medical design and manufacturing trade show, concluded its 41st edition in Anaheim, California, attracting over 1,800 exhibiting companies.
  • The event featured country-specific pavilions (Switzerland, Germany, Japan, Costa Rica) and a dedicated zone for California-based businesses.
  • A keynote by Lauren Dunford (Guidewheel) highlighted the increasing integration of AI in factory operations.
  • A panel discussion questioned the true level of innovation within the MedTech industry, suggesting potential repackaging of existing ideas.
  • A two-day Sustainable Manufacturing Conference focused on reducing carbon footprints and improving operational efficiencies within the MedTech sector.

The big picture

MD&M West underscores the MedTech industry's ongoing convergence with advanced manufacturing trends, particularly automation and sustainability. The emphasis on AI reflects the broader push for Industry 4.0 adoption across manufacturing sectors, while the sustainability conference signals growing pressure to address environmental concerns. The panel discussion’s critique highlights a potential risk: a perception of stagnation within the industry, which could impact investment and growth.

What we're watching

AI Adoption
The pace at which AI-driven solutions are integrated into MedTech manufacturing processes will determine the industry's ability to achieve the efficiency gains touted by Guidewheel, and whether those gains translate to tangible cost savings and improved product outcomes.
Innovation Metrics
Whether the industry can move beyond incremental improvements and deliver genuinely disruptive innovations, as challenged by the panel discussion, will be a key indicator of long-term competitiveness and investor interest.
Sustainability
The effectiveness of the Sustainable Manufacturing Conference's strategies in driving meaningful reductions in carbon footprints and resource consumption will be crucial for meeting increasingly stringent regulatory requirements and consumer expectations.

Battery Show Europe Expands Tiered Access Amid EV Supply Chain Growth

Event summary

  • The Battery Show Europe and Electric & Hybrid Vehicle Technology Expo will be held June 9-11, 2026, in Stuttgart, Germany.
  • Registration is now open, targeting thousands of attendees across automotive, energy, and electronics sectors.
  • The event introduces tiered pass options (Explorer, Explorer Plus, Leader) with varying levels of access and benefits.
  • Informa Markets Engineering is launching The Battery Show South and The Battery Show Asia in 2025.
  • The event is co-located with Electric & Hybrid Vehicle Technology Expo and includes listed media partners like Battery Technology and DesignNews.

The big picture

The Battery Show Europe's continued growth underscores the accelerating demand for battery technology and electric vehicle solutions across Europe. Informa's tiered access model and geographic expansion reflect a broader trend of event organizers seeking to maximize revenue and scale their offerings in a rapidly expanding market. The event's size and scope position it as a key indicator of the health and direction of the European EV supply chain, which is currently facing challenges related to raw material sourcing and geopolitical instability.

What we're watching

Tiered Access
The introduction of tiered pass options suggests Informa is attempting to monetize event access more granularly, potentially reflecting increased demand and a desire to capture higher-value attendees.
Geographic Expansion
The planned launches of The Battery Show South and Asia indicate a broader strategic push to capitalize on regional EV growth, but success will depend on tailoring content and partnerships to local market needs.
Networking Focus
The emphasis on networking, particularly with the new lounge and scavenger hunt, signals an effort to differentiate the event and justify premium pass pricing in a competitive landscape.

Quantum Networking, AI Chip Design Take Center Stage at DesignCon

Event summary

  • DesignCon 2026 will feature keynotes from Joseph Lukens (Purdue), Mark Ren (Agentrys), and Bhanu Sood (NASA).
  • Lukens' keynote will focus on quantum networking, including its evolution and challenges.
  • Ren will discuss the use of agentic AI in chip design, moving from syntax repair to full RTL generation.
  • Sood's presentation will detail NASA’s electronics needs for lunar, Martian, and deep-space missions.

The big picture

DesignCon's focus on quantum computing, AI, and space exploration highlights the convergence of these rapidly evolving fields. The event signals a broader shift towards increasingly complex and specialized hardware design, driven by the demands of emerging technologies and ambitious space programs. The event's scale, as the largest annual gathering of chip, board, and systems designers, underscores the importance of these trends to the broader semiconductor ecosystem.

What we're watching

Quantum Adoption
The practical application of quantum networking remains highly speculative; the success of DesignCon’s keynote hinges on demonstrating tangible progress beyond research testbeds.
AI Integration
The limited training data and domain expertise required for AI-driven chip design will likely constrain the speed of adoption, despite the potential for significant productivity gains.
Space Tech
NASA’s reliance on advanced electronics for its exploration goals will continue to drive demand for specialized design capabilities and potentially create opportunities for smaller, agile suppliers.

US Fashion Consumers Prioritize Value, Threatening Industry Margins

Event summary

  • Fashion by Informa released its 2026 US Fashion Consumer Outlook Report on February 11, 2026.
  • The report is based on a December 2025 survey of 1,032 US consumers aged 18+, alongside expert interviews and research.
  • 66% of consumers prioritize 'value for money' when shopping for fashion, significantly outweighing 'trendiness' (10%).
  • Fashion spending ranks fourth behind dining, travel, and fitness, indicating increased competition for discretionary income.
  • 92% of consumers plan to adjust shopping habits due to anticipated tariff increases, potentially impacting brand volumes.

The big picture

The report highlights a fundamental shift in US consumer behavior, moving away from trend-driven purchases towards a focus on value, durability, and functionality. This trend, coupled with increased competition from experiential categories and the impact of tariffs, poses a significant challenge to the fashion industry's traditional business models and margin structures. The findings suggest a need for brands to prioritize customer engagement, purpose-driven storytelling, and a focus on quality over fleeting trends to maintain relevance and loyalty.

What we're watching

Margin Defense
Brands will need to demonstrate a clear path to maintaining profitability amidst rising costs and heightened price sensitivity, potentially through supply chain optimization or premium product offerings.
Experiential Integration
The fashion industry's ability to successfully integrate experiential elements – such as wellness or personalized services – will be crucial for retaining consumer attention and justifying price points.
Fit Technology
The adoption and refinement of fit technology will be a key differentiator, as poor fit continues to be a significant barrier to purchase and a driver of returns.

MAGIC Fashion Event Returns to New York, Signaling Resilience in Women's Apparel

Event summary

  • MAGIC by Informa’s New York event will be held February 24–26, 2026, at the Javits Center.
  • The event will focus on Women’s Trend, Young Contemporary, and Modern Sportswear categories, showcasing Fall/Winter 2026-2027 trends.
  • The 'Women’s Young Contemporary Buyer’s Guide' highlights trends: 'Tough & Tender,' 'Functional Flair,' and 'Wild Heritage'.
  • The event aims to connect buyers, established brands, and emerging labels.

The big picture

The return of MAGIC New York, after pandemic-related disruptions, signals a desire within the women's fashion industry to re-establish in-person networking and trend discovery. The focus on 'Young Contemporary' suggests a continued emphasis on appealing to younger demographics and adapting to evolving consumer preferences for functionality and unique design aesthetics. Informa's role as a platform provider is critical, but its ability to maintain relevance in a digitally-driven landscape remains a key challenge.

What we're watching

Consumer Sentiment
The success of the 'Tough & Tender' and 'Wild Heritage' themes will indicate whether consumers are prioritizing resilience and craftsmanship over purely trend-driven styles.
Event Attendance
Whether attendance rates return to pre-pandemic levels will be a key indicator of the health of the women’s fashion retail sector and MAGIC’s continued relevance.
Brand Alignment
How effectively Informa curates the brand lineup will influence buyer perception and the event's ability to drive meaningful commerce.

COTERIE Integrates Digital Platform, Vintage Focus Signals Fashion Event Evolution

Event summary

  • COTERIE, a fashion event owned by Informa, will return to New York from February 24-26, 2026, at the Javits Center.
  • The event will feature brands from Italy, Korea, Turkey, Brazil, Spain, France, and India.
  • COTERIE has partnered with JOOR to offer a digital extension of the event, accessible two weeks before and six weeks after the in-person event.
  • The Apres Ski neighborhood will include vintage pieces curated by Normal NYC Vintage vendors, offered with a cash-and-carry option.
  • The Incubator Program will feature five Black-owned brands: YESAET, ARCH NYC, Elexjay, Nia Thomas, and Gwen Beloti Jewelry.

The big picture

COTERIE’s strategic pivot towards digital integration and vintage curation reflects the broader fashion industry’s response to shifting consumer preferences and the increasing importance of sustainability. The partnership with JOOR aims to address the need for wider accessibility in a post-pandemic landscape, while the vintage focus caters to the growing demand for unique and ethically sourced pieces. This move positions COTERIE to remain relevant in a market increasingly driven by online commerce and conscious consumerism.

What we're watching

Digital Adoption
The success of the JOOR integration will hinge on retailer participation and whether it meaningfully expands COTERIE’s reach beyond its physical footprint, potentially impacting future event formats.
Vintage Demand
The inclusion of vintage pieces through Normal NYC Vintage could signal a broader shift towards resale and circularity within the contemporary fashion sector, but its impact on overall sales remains to be seen.
Incubator Impact
The Incubator Program’s effectiveness will be measured by the long-term growth and visibility of the featured brands, and whether it attracts further investment and talent to the sector.

Informa Fashion Incubator Program Aims to Bolster Black-Owned Brands

Event summary

  • Fashion by Informa's Incubator Program, launched in 2020, provides support for Black-owned fashion brands operating for less than three years.
  • The 2026 program offers participants access to industry connections, showcases at COTERIE, PROJECT, and MAGIC events, and marketing support.
  • This year's cohort includes brands like YESAET, COCOACENTRIC, Black Angels in Flight, and AJABENG.
  • A 2025 alumni brand, Goat by James King, will be featured at New York Men’s Day on February 11, 2026.

The big picture

Fashion by Informa’s Incubator Program represents a strategic effort to cultivate a more diverse supplier base and cater to evolving consumer preferences for inclusive brands. While the program’s impact on Informa’s overall revenue remains limited, it serves as a valuable brand-building exercise and a potential pipeline for future wholesale partnerships. The program’s success is intertwined with the broader trend of corporate social responsibility and the increasing importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion within the fashion industry.

What we're watching

Market Penetration
The success of the program hinges on whether participating brands can translate exposure into sustained wholesale orders and revenue growth, indicating broader market acceptance.
Program Scalability
Whether Informa can expand the Incubator Program without diluting its exclusivity or effectiveness will be a key indicator of its long-term strategic value.
Competitive Landscape
The emergence of similar initiatives by other industry players could erode Informa’s competitive advantage in attracting and supporting emerging Black-owned brands.

Fashion Marketplace Consolidates Events Amid Shifting Consumer Trends

Event summary

  • Fashion by Informa is combining MAGIC, PROJECT, SOURCING, and OFFPRICE events under one roof at the Las Vegas Convention Center from February 17-19, 2026.
  • The event will showcase Fall/Winter 2026-2027 trends, featuring brands like Free People, Theia Jewelry, and Bobi Los Angeles.
  • SOURCING by Informa remains North America’s largest gathering of fashion manufacturers, suppliers, and service providers.
  • OFFPRICE by Informa is co-located for the first time, focusing on wholesale products with competitive margins.

The big picture

Fashion by Informa's consolidation of events signals a strategic response to evolving consumer behavior and increased competition within the fashion trade show landscape. The move aims to create a more comprehensive platform, but risks alienating attendees accustomed to specialized events. The success of this strategy will depend on Informa’s ability to integrate the distinct offerings of MAGIC, PROJECT, SOURCING, and OFFPRICE while maintaining their individual appeal.

What we're watching

Consumer Shifts
The inclusion of OFFPRICE suggests increasing pressure on margins and a focus on value-driven purchasing, reflecting broader consumer sensitivity to pricing.
Menswear Evolution
PROJECT’s focus on categories like elevated streetwear and tailored clothing indicates a continued shift in menswear preferences, requiring Informa to adapt its offerings.
Event Attendance
Whether the consolidated event format will maintain or increase attendance compared to the separate events will be a key indicator of Informa’s ability to create value for exhibitors and buyers.
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