The 2nd of November was notable in the workwear sector, as it saw the commencement of the annual PCIAW® Summit, Networking & Awards 2021. As one of the most informative and eagerly anticipated events of its kind, the gathering was the centrepiece for the Professional Clothing Industry Association Worldwide, bringing all stakeholders together in one location.
Helping to bring people together to discover new business opportunities and connect PPE, workwear and corporate wear suppliers with buyers, the non-for-profit organisation puts its member at the forefront of everything it does, with this year’s summit focus fixed firmly on sustainability, supply chain transparency and resource efficiency.
An Amazing Event Enjoyed By All Attending
The event was full of glitz and glamour, hosted by Charles Ross (Postgraduate Lecturer at The Royal College of Art) and featuring over 25 international speakers. Everyone at the event agreed that the standard this year was exceptional, with every attendee bringing value to proceedings.
While only one company/person was able to come out on top and win each category award, the true champion on this occasion was innovation, critical thinking and inspiration after what has been a difficult 12 months. The PCIAW represents the voice of a rapidly-growing sector and provides a platform to advance the agenda of professionals in this unique sphere.
The Main Themes of the Event
Coinciding perfectly with climate-focused COP26 Summit, the workwear event was held at the Hilton London Metropole and among the topics covered were important elements like sustainable procurement, longevity, durability, upcycling, designing to recycle and other environmentally-centered measures to reduce the ecological impact of clothing manufacturing.
The use of biodegradable fibres, Artificial Intelligence (AI), supply chain transparency and the benefits of a fully-sustainable circular economy were also discussed. There’s still much to do in this regard, but by bringing thought leaders and influencers together in this way, great things can be achieved.
Dressbest Wins Industry Recognition
We’re pleased to be able to say that Dressbest was given official recognition at the event, being named as the Best Managed Boutique Project. While this wasn’t one of the main categories it still represents a major achievement to be recognised in this way, as it demonstrates a commitment to everything the event and indeed the industry stands for.
Other winners included Milliken & Company (Best PPE Innovation), International Brands Group (Best Innovation in Footwear), and Bodi.Me (Best Newcomer Award). Dressbest was certainly rubbing shoulders with those making waves in the sector, as they illustrated their undoubted worth at one of THE flagship workwear events.
An Opportunity to Celebrate The Achievements of the Industry
The event brought people together to provide an unmissable opportunity to celebrate the extraordinary efforts those in the industry have made and the sheer amount of talent available. It certainly bodes well for this fast-growing sector that there are so many great minds and entrepreneurs driving it forwards - like Dressbest and their amazing team.
It’s been a challenging time since the pandemic and if the PCIAW awards have proven anything, it’s that there is sufficient entrepreneurial spirit and expertise out there to realise a better, greener future. The truth is that everyone at this year’s awards was a winner.
