Kingpins Amsterdam 2026, held on 15 and 16 April 2026, brought together a range of denim industry professionals, including representatives from brands such as Levi’s, Calvin Klein, Burberry, Tommy Hilfiger, Gap, Urban Outfitters, Hugo Boss, Jack & Jones, and others.
Despite the decline in footfall, the number of companies present remained consistent with previous editions, Kingpins said.
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Attendees explored new technologies, sustainable initiatives, and ongoing developments in denim production.
Kingpins CEO Vivian Wang said: “Retailers and brands are being strategic with travel budgets. Our highly curated exhibitor roster packs an extraordinary level of inspiration, innovation and meaningful connections into just two days.”
This year’s show hosted 100 exhibitors and featured expanded areas such as the Jeanius Hub, which supports startups and emerging businesses.
The Made in Japan section, centred on Japanese denim producers’ quality and craftsmanship, also returned to the show floor.
Kingpins Amsterdam 2026 also presented the newest entry in its Most Sustainable Product initiative, featuring recent sustainability-focused developments from exhibitors.
The collection, designed by Piero Turk and Serena Conti and titled “This Rebel Artist,” references 20th-century artists associated with rebellious themes. It was manufactured and finished by Asutex, using fabrics from Foison Textiles, HW Textile, Naveena Denim Mills, Neela by Sapphire, Prosperity Textile, Sharabati, US Group, and Vicunha. Labels were provided by Turtex Etiquette, and buttons, zippers, and rivets came from YKK.
Another initiative, “From ESSENTIALS to SPECIALS,” demonstrated water-saving technologies through collaboration between Denim House and Jeanologia.
The display focused on digital printing and laser applications to promote responsible production without reducing creative design options.
Wang said: “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. 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.”
The event also included a tribute to Adriano Goldschmied, attended by his family, who met with friends and colleagues from across his career.
“Adriano always believed that everything we create should have a purpose and meaning. This was not just how he worked, but how he lived his life. So many people in the denim community reached out to share what he meant to them, and the mark he left over his career,” Wang added.
