Mandatory Copenhagen 2024: A New Benchmark for Industry Gatherings
The inaugural Mandatory CPH event, held from June 26-28 at Øksnehallen in Copenhagen's vibrant meatpacking district, concluded on a high note. This independent trade event, with its innovative showroom format and cool, minimalist sensibilities that highlight product over promotion, marked the beginning of the season by providing buyers an exclusive opportunity to place orders ahead of later shows. With around 100 leading brands in attendance, the trade show fostered an environment of networking, forward-thinking business strategies, and optimism for what is to come for the Copenhagen fashion scene.
A Premier Platform for Early-Season Orders
Mandatory CPH was crafted by founder Mads Peterson and his business partner, Clara Leone to give buyers a head start on the season, allowing them to secure orders early. This strategic timing proved advantageous for both brands and buyers who soaked up the atmosphere at the Øksnehallen event with brands showcasing their latest collections and innovations, while buyers explored new possibilities and opportunities for collaboration.
"Mandatory was really good, especially seeing as this was their first show, and we are really excited to see what's coming next. We will continue to show here," shared a representative from ATP Atelier. "It was fantastic to meet other brand peers and talk about ways of growing the business."
The showroom format of Mandatory CPH was specifically designed to elevate the products being showcased and facilitate meaningful interactions between these brands and buyers. The event's layout, combined with its strategic timing, ensured that participants could make the most of their appointments and forge lasting connections.
"The show was arranged really well, a really cool vibe, and everyone feels really optimistic with the concept. We believe in it and want to keep partnering with Mandatory to make it happen," said a spokesperson from Hope Brand. "NuORDER made all the difference for us at the show, allowing us to drive more sales. It's super user-friendly for us reps, and that's also the feedback from our buyers. It really saves us time, and we love working with NuORDER."
Petersen, who brings over 25 years of fashion industry experience to the project, along with Leone, who was formerly a Director at Revolver Trade Show and Scandinavian Manifesto by Revolver at Pitti Uomo in Florence selected digital global B2B platform NuORDER by Lightspeed to enhance the trade experience for trading brands at the event.
On the first show, Clara Leone said, “We are extremely proud of what we have achieved with the very first execution of Mandatory. Bringing together like-minded professionals created the right energy necessary to move forward in a challenged industry. Within the next months we will focus on the communication to the buyers to make the next edition, and Copenhagen, even stronger."
Tom Groves from NuORDER by Lightspeed added, "Collaborating with Mandatory CPH has been an excellent experience. The integration of NuORDER’s technology with the trade show’s vision has set a new standard in how brands and buyers interact. We're already looking forward to next year's show. Mandatory CPH has not only met but exceeded our expectations, and we can't wait to see how it evolves".
As the first edition of Mandatory CPH comes to a close, the future looks bright. The event has laid a strong foundation for subsequent editions, promising even more opportunities for brands and buyers to connect and thrive.
Thank you to all the brands, buyers, and attendees for making the first Mandatory CPH a memorable and impactful event. See you in January!
