Scheduled for 14 April 2026 in Columbus, Ohio, the event will bring together industry leaders to explore innovations aimed at enhancing efficiency, scalability, workforce development, and competitiveness within the supply chain.
Attendees will have the opportunity to delve into topics such as automation, digital production tools, and data-driven decision-making.
The conference will take place at The LOOM, an expansive innovation hub developed by the Columbus Fashion Alliance (CFA), which is expected to open early next year. The choice of venue, according to SPESA, reflects its commitment to spotlighting communities that are actively investing in the growth of US apparel and sewn products manufacturing.
SPESA president Michael McDonald said: “Advancing sewn products manufacturing is not just about the technologies we adopt. It’s about supporting and strengthening our workforce, building resilient supply chains, and ensuring the long-term competitiveness of our industry.
“This conference represents an opportunity to celebrate innovation, share solutions, and foster partnerships that will help manufacturers thrive in a rapidly evolving global landscape.”
Each year, SPESA’s Advancements Conference spotlights a new market in order to showcase regional advancements in sewn products manufacturing. Columbus was selected for 2026 due to its prominent role as a fashion and apparel hub.
The city is home to major brands like Abercrombie & Fitch and Victoria’s Secret, supporting extensive employment across design, manufacturing, sourcing, and supply chain operations. Ohio's ranking as the third highest state in manufacturing employment further reinforces Columbus' industrial significance.
Columbus Fashion Alliance collaborates with SPESA for this event. As a nonprofit organisation, Columbus Fashion Alliance aims to position Columbus as a leading fashion capital by supporting designers, brands, manufacturers, and creative entrepreneurs through education and workforce development initiatives.
Columbus Fashion Alliance founder Yohannan Terrell said: “Columbus is one of the fastest growing and most dynamic fashion hubs in the United States, making it an ideal city for SPESA’s upcoming Advancements Conference.
“We’re excited to welcome SPESA and leaders from across the industry to experience, firsthand, how Columbus is shaping the future of fashion and sewn products manufacturing.”
The LOOM will feature over 40,000ft2 of creative studios, coworking spaces, event areas, industry equipment, and production resources, designed to foster innovation and collaboration.
SPESA represents suppliers to the sewn products industry, including sectors like apparel, home textiles, leather goods, footwear, and industrial textiles. These suppliers provide machinery and technology essential for developing and distributing sewn products. Through its annual conference, SPESA facilitates discussions on critical industry trends and technologies shaping the future of manufacturing.
The group’s 2025 Executive Conference was held in late August at the Sofitel Magnificent Mile in Chicago. The annual gathering attracted over 70 participants for three days focused on education and networking, with a strong emphasis on the theme of resiliency.
