Positive end to Kingpins despite budget-hit numbers
Kingpins organisers have announced there were 1,033 attendees from 514 companies across 40 countries at the latest Amsterdam show (April 15 and 16) - a slight dip in foot traffic from October's show, but around the same number of companies.
Around 1,200 attended in April 2025.
“Retailers and brands are being strategic with travel budgets,” said Kingpins CEO Vivian Wang. “Our highly curated exhibitor roster packs an extraordinary level of inspiration, innovation and meaningful connections into just two days.”
The show featured 100 exhibitors from around the world, spanning denim mills, manufacturers, fibre makers and suppliers.
Brands and retailers at the show included Levi's, Madewell, Tommy Hilfiger, Calvin Klein, Burberry, Urban Outfitters, Target, Gap, Mavi, Jack & Jones, Nudie Jeans, Hugo Boss, Karl Lagerfeld and Zimmermann.
“We’ve been in active conversation with designers, retailers, and brands — listening closely to learn how we can sharpen the experience for everyone who walks through our doors,” Wang said. “The goal is straightforward: smoother navigation, smarter scheduling with the right partners, and enough breathing room to let the unexpected happen.
“I hope everyone who visits Kingpins will go home with something real: a fresh perspective, a connection that matters, a technology worth a second look, or an idea that quietly shapes what comes next.”
This season, the show expanded its Jeanius Hub — the section dedicated to startups and emerging developments — and welcomed back Made in Japan, Kingpins' ongoing spotlight on the quality and craftsmanship of Japanese denim makers.
Most Sustainable Product initiative, designed by Piero Turk and Serena Conti, drew inspiration from 20th century artists who used their work as a form of rebellion. Manufactured and finished by Asutex, it featured fabrics from Foison Textiles, HW Textile, Naveena Denim Mills, Neela by Sapphire, Prosperity Textile, Sharabati, US Group and Vicunha; labels by Turtex Etiquette; and buttons, zips and rivets by YKK.
The show also celebrated Adriano Goldschmied, welcoming his family for a tribute that gave them the chance to connect with the many friends and colleagues he touched throughout his career.
Kingpins is moving its January New York show to a venue in Los Angeles, from 2027.
