Kingpins Show sets new standards for exhibitors

The first required standard will address CSR. Kingpins' organisers will offer clear guidance and support to its exhibiting mills. As part of the process, exhibitors will be engaged in open discussions about standards and expectations related to certifications across all designated categories, Kingpins said in a press release.

Kingpins Show, which hosts denim supply chain shows in New York, Hong Kong, China and Amsterdam has found few denim suppliers who have made serious efforts toward establishing CSR standards.

Kingpins believes that industry trade shows are in a position to simultaneously help the denim industry be more responsible and support brands and retailers choose best-in-class suppliers by requiring exhibitors to comply to the highest industry standards.

"For example, in social compliance we have found that virtually none of our denim mills have an SA 8000 certification or a WRAP certification - which is disappointing," said Andrew Olah, founder of Kingpins Show and Kingpins Transformers. "We are unaware of any trade show where exhibitors are required to have any standards so Kingpins has decided to implement a new approach to make shows more than a window display."

Rather than develop a new CSR standard programme, Kingpins will review the many existing industry standards and certifications (SA8000, WRAP, BSCI, ETI, FLA, SEDEX-SMETA, etc) and require its exhibitors to select one to implement.

"Kingpins is a very responsible organisation and this a true responsible action. Such a strong commitment will guarantee all exhibitors and visitors much higher quality standards. There will be much more to say in the future as we add new requirements for our exhibitors to meet," said Alberto Candiani, owner of Candiani Denim in Italy.

Once Kingpins establishes its standard protocol, the organisation will share all its information with other trade shows in the hope that they use the standards criteria for their exhibitors as well. (RR)

ALCHEMPro News Desk – India