The Hub makes the move to Shanghai

The Hub, one of Asia's leading fashion trade shows, has decided to make the move to Shanghai for its next edition, a step which further cementing the city's reputation as the fashion capital of China.

Coinciding with Shanghai Fashion week, the event is set to take place from October 13 to 15 at Central Studios, in the Xintiandi district of Shanghai. As the trade fair's first venture into mainland China, the event has carefully curated its selection of exhibitors, which will include 40 international brands as well as a selection of the top Chinese designers to appeal to the ever emerging multi-brand retail scene in China.

"From the outset just two years ago we knew that at some point we would take The Hub to Mainland China and now is the right time," commented co-founder Richard Hobbs. "Even though the multi-brand channel is relatively immature, new stores are opening weekly and the existing players are getting better and better. There are still hurdles when it comes to doing business in China and we are here to help and advise. From today China will be reducing import tariffs on a number of clothing and footwear categories and we can only see more openness as China makes it easier for brands to import, find buyers and partners."

The Hub's founders aim to keep the event small, as well as exclusive to ensure its unique selection. Brands who have confirmed to exhibit at the event's 5th edition include Boy London and Dienastie from Sweden, Rack & Ruin from the UK, Swims from Norway, Flying Zachinnia and Zuma from the US as well as Beijing based designers Zhang Chi and Capitale Nord.

"We have worked hard to demonstrate to exhibitors and the wider fashion industry that The Hub is the safe pair of hands for entering the Greater China market and beyond in Asia," added Peter Caplowe, the Hub's other co-founder. "We are long terms veterans of the global branded fashion business and regional Asian fashion markets. We are confident we will offer the best environment and support for brands that are serious about getting in to Asia whilst protecting their brands identity and positioning."

The Hub first launched in August in 2013 in Hong Kong, where it host four previous editions. ITE Moda, which is part of th e ITE Group has an investment in the The Hub whilst owning and operating leading fashion trade fairs in the UK such as Scoop, Scoop London, Bubble and Moda.