Behind Mandatory CPH is Mads M. Petersen, who is bringing more than 25 years of fashion industry experience into the project, including being the co-director of CIFF for seven years. On board for the project as a partner is also Clara Leone.
— Clara knows the industry from her former role as Director at Revolver Trade Show and Scandinavian Manifesto by Revolver at Pitti Uomo in Florence. Clara’s skills, network, and relations within the Scandinavian and international fashion trade industry is second to none, says Petersen.
Using a so-called by-appointment-only approach, Mandatory CPH aims to bring Scandinavian and international fashion brands, distributors, and agencies together, in Øksnehallen in Copenhagen’s meatpacking district. Blender Group is one of the region’s key players that has got attracted by the new format.
— To us, the ’by-appointment-only’ is very appealing as we have been on the outlook for a Scandinavian setup matching our brand mix and the exclusive feeling of a more curated platform welcoming buyers in a more intimate and personal setting, says Kyrre Alver, owner.
According to Joe Sharpe, Managing Director of Options Distribution, the choice of dates (June 26-28), is even a necessity, both for Copenhagen and the industry.
— The brand mix and the organisation are super strong and the dates are finally correct, following the international calendar, he says.
Mads M. Petersen describes Mandatory CPH as an add-on for the industry running independently, but in alignment with the international fashion and market calendar — including Copenhagen Fashion Week, to be held in the beginning of August.
— Where Copenhagen Fashion Week stands out as a leading player with showcases of runway shows, presentations and talks in August, Mandatory CPH is simply a showroom supporting the brands with a platform for trade at an earlier timing in the season”.
Mandatory CPH has also partnered up with the digital global B2B platform NuORDER by Lightspeed.
— This show will be the first of many industry-changing regional events that will enable brands and retailers to expand their networks, grow their businesses, and deepen their partnerships, says Mike Ganci, General Manager.
The brand list includes local brands like mfpen, Henrik Vibskov, and Hope along with international ones such as Missoni, Sunspel, and Aspesi. The full lineup will be announced from early May. Mandatory CPH will run bi-annually but the dates for the AW25 season are still to be revealed.
