The IFCO event, which ran from 5 to 8 February, unfolded across 35,000m2 within eight halls of the Istanbul Expo Center. The trade show attracted over 30,000 national and international visitors who explored offerings from more than 500 exhibitors and brands.
IFCO #7 provided an extensive platform for prominent labels to display collections that spotlight Türkiye as a hub for premium apparel fashion on the international stage.
İHKİB vice-president Mustafa Paşahan said: “Our fashion industry plays a strategic role in our economy through its value-adding production, its contribution to employment and its exports. For years, we have consistently been one of the top three export sectors. We are the sixth largest supplier worldwide and the third largest for the European Union. Today, we are a country of brand production with a solid infrastructure and extensive expertise.
“Every year we make significant progress in design and branding. Our brands represent the sector in 3,000 shops in more than 100 countries. Some of our brands are even market leaders in the countries in which they operate. IFCO acts as a driver of the Turkish fashion industry and is an indispensable part of the international fair calendar.”
IFCO highlights
One of the key highlights was the strong presence of Turkish fashion brands that have been gaining market share in Europe and the US.
In hall 7, 'The CORE Istanbul' spotlighted Turkish design excellence with 25 designers including Meltem Özbek, Tuba Ergin, and Erkan Demiroğlu showcasing their latest creations.
This segment demonstrated the innovation and creativity propelling Turkish retail brands such as İpekyol, Damat, and Kığılı.
The FashionIst area in halls 5 and 6 featured fashion shows and events focusing on evening wear. It highlighted the Turkish fashion industry's strengths in high-quality designs and emerging trends.
Lingerie and hosiery industries—vital components of Türkiye's export economy—were prominently featured in halls 9 and 10 at LinExpo. Here, trade visitors engaged with top products while exploring international quality standards and potential partnerships.
Children's fashion took the limelight in hall 8 with dedicated fashion shows that offered attendees a chance to discover new collections and establish connections with leading brands.
IFCO also acknowledged the European Union's eco-design initiative by emphasizing sustainable practices and innovative designs at the trade fair. This approach aimed to foster industry transformation towards sustainability.
“Every season we receive tens of thousands of international visitors. At IFCO February 2024, we set a record by welcoming 38,545 visitors from 159 countries, almost half of whom were international - a significant milestone. Franchise brands network with new partners, export companies make new business contacts. As a result, all our participants leave the trade fair with positive results every season,” Paşahan added.
