COMING SOON: A NEW REGIONAL TRADE EVENT IN MEMPHIS

In light of COVID-19 and in the spirit of getting creative, over the past few months industry veteran Lauren Vestal has been gearing up to launch a smaller, regional trade event in Memphis at the end of January 2021.

Vestal, who has been in the wholesale world for over a decade (she currently works for Mobile Showroom), set her sights on this launch after several calls with her industry friends where they brainstormed on how to drum up sales when retailers aren’t traveling to big conventions.

This new show, called Memphis Prime, is approaching the show experience differently by focusing on community with morning seminars where each brand can give their elevator pitch to buyers. The first 45 minutes to an hour of each day will allow buyers to hear high-level intros from the reps and brands in attendance. This will provide an opportunity for all in attendance to come together as a community and showcase each brand.

Additionally, show organizers are giving back to the local community in Memphis by partnering with the University of Memphis fashion department to provide micro-internships and shadowing opportunities during the event. It’s a unique opportunity for those students to get a foot in the door and some exposure to our industry that may not have easy access to otherwise.

As of now, the show has confirmed Benson, Brax, Emanuel Berg, Edwin, Faherty, Johnnie-O, M. Singer, Nobis, Paige, Peter Millar, Sol Angeles, Trinidad3 Jeans, Vuori, We Norwegians, and W. Kleinberg as participating vendors. Even more brands are likely to sign on before the show opens for business.

Memphis Prime is slated to debut on Monday, January 25th and will run through Wednesday, January 27th. It will take place inside the Grand Hall at the gorgeous Central Station Hotel in Downtown Memphis.

Interested buyers can register to attend here. Special hotel room rates are available as well.