We're Going to Ohio!

SPESA Speaks

The 2026 SPESA Advancements in Manufacturing Technologies Conference will take place April 13-14 in Columbus, Ohio.

Which may leave you asking: Why oh why oh why-o? Why would we ever go to Ohio?*

We're so glad you asked!

WHY COLUMBUS?

As its name implies, the SPESA Advancements in Manufacturing Technologies Conference, looks to explore the new and exciting ways that manufacturing is developing throughout the country. We have always chosen strategic locations — Texas, Detroit, and Los Angeles, for example — as our host cities for the event to allow us to not only discuss the industry as a whole, but to really dive into the challenges and initiatives taking place within specific manufacturing hubs.

And, as we continue to hear chatter throughout the industry that Columbus and its neighboring region may just be the "future of manufacturing," we couldn't miss the chance to learn more about it in person!

The region's accessible location, established infrastructure, and skilled workforce have long been an attraction for manufacturing for consumer goods industries — including apparel and footwear — as well as advanced materials, defense, and aerospace. It is a hub for both traditional manufacturing models and emerging tech.

"Columbus is anchored by numerous retail giants, emerging brands and distribution hubs. The city is a hub for skilled professionals in merchandising, logistics, manufacturing and design. Ohio State University, the Columbus College of Art & Design, Kent State University and others pump out emerging talent in the fashion industry." - The Columbus Dispatch

INVESTMENT IN INDUSTRY

While the fashion industry in Columbus hasn't yet caught up with the powerhouses of New York and Los Angeles, tremendous effort has been made to unify the region's various creative silos into a central hub that both supports new ventures and provides resources for growth. The construction of The LOOM, led by the Columbus Fashion Alliance, is a big part of that effort, creating a physical place that can be strategically utilized by industry leaders and newcomers alike.

And that's not the only investment the industry is seeing. There are more than 132,000 people who work in the creative economy in Columbus, and Franklin County, where Columbus is located, sees the value in investing in and expanding this workforce. In the past three years, Franklin County has invested more than $5 million in the fashion industry. 

THE COLUMBUS FASHION ALLIANCE

While our global footprint is vast, one of our favorite things to do at SPESA is support local organizations who are doing the work at home to support their community and the individuals at the heart of a region's industry. For 2026, we are thrilled to partner with the Columbus Fashion Alliance!

The Columbus Fashion Alliance (CFA) is a collective of creatives passionate about the fashion industry in Columbus. The organization's goal is to support the creation and growth of creatives and fashion-based business through multiple facets. It looks to educate its members and the community with skills that add value to their brands and increase their knowledge as a professional. CFA constructs facilities that house industrial-grade equipment, such as sewing machines, sergers, DTG, fabric, etc., which its members can access in order to build a business without the overhead. CFA also coaches its members and community on how to go from conception to production and all the areas in between. Lastly, it looks to create opportunities to connect artists with retail professionals and find opportunities that are mutually beneficial. 

"In Columbus, fashion is our business as we are one of the top cities in the nation equipped with the means and opportunity with which to grow a fashion based business. We have record numbers of production houses, distribution centers and retail headquarters which allows a new and emerging brand to have their desired resources at the end of their street. CFA is so excited to help move fashion forward and enhance the culture of Columbus into one that fosters and supports emerging artists and brands." - Columbus Fashion Alliance

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One of SPESA's keystone events, the annual SPESA Advancements in Manufacturing Technologies is designed specifically for manufacturers, brands, retailers, suppliers, and industry stakeholders to learn about new innovations and advancements in manufacturing sewn products.

Click here to register now!

Click here to learn more about the 2026 SPESA Advancements in Manufacturing Technologies Conference.

*Also, so that Marie could sneak another Broadway number into SPESA Speaks (#8 so far, we believe).