First edition of Beyond the Trend brings the footwear and fashion industries together to explore the future of retail
9 October 2026Yesterday, CAST in Nieuwegein hosted the inaugural edition of Beyond the Trend, a new inspiration event organised by CAST in collaboration with Textilia. Bringing together a diverse mix of fashion retailers, suppliers and other industry professionals, the event focused on knowledge sharing, innovation and future-proof entrepreneurship. Attendees gained fresh insights and practical inspiration to help them navigate the rapidly changing retail landscape.
The Future of Retail: Adapting to Change
The programme focused on the future of retail, smart technology and future-proof entrepreneurship. Why are these topics so important? The retail industry is evolving rapidly. Markets are changing, consumers are changing, and the questions retailers face every day are changing with them. How can retailers stand out from the competition? Where do new opportunities lie? How can they make the right decisions and prepare for the challenges ahead? These questions formed the central theme of Beyond the Trend.
From Trends to Strategy
Trend forecaster Jan Agelink explored the developments reshaping the retail industry. Among other topics, he highlighted the role of artificial intelligence (AI) and the shift from consumption towards participation and experience. Drawing on his insights into societal developments and consumer trends, he offered brands and retailers valuable perspectives to reassess their strategies and market positioning.
Practical business experience was also at the heart of the programme. Jurriaan van ’t Hoff, CEO of Studio Anneloes, shared his experience of building a successful and agile fashion brand. He demonstrated how data, transparency, B Corp principles and the use of AI can contribute to sustainable growth and help reduce waste.
Challenges and Opportunities for Fashion Retailers
Isolde Delanghe, Director of Mode Unie, addressed the current challenges and opportunities facing independent fashion retailers. Drawing on her extensive knowledge of the Belgian retail market, she explored how fashion retailers can remain relevant and encourage consumers to make a conscious choice to shop in their stores. Her contribution provided valuable insights into the realities of retail, including developments across national borders.
Practical Insights and In-Depth Sessions
In addition to the main programme, Beyond the Trend offered a range of breakout sessions, allowing attendees to explore current topics directly relevant to their day-to-day operations and future business challenges.
The sessions covered a variety of themes, including:
Building Trust in Buyer-Supplier Relationships – Derk van Geel of act legal highlighted the importance of trust and collaboration between suppliers and buyers.
Digital Product Passport (DPP) – Jeanet van der Stoel of GS1 Netherlands provided an update on developments surrounding the Digital Product Passport.
The Future of Stock Management – SKUU presented an innovative network solution designed to help online retailers prevent out-of-stock situations.
Colours and Materials – Aïsha van Dorssen of Colour Confessions shared insights into the power of colour and its practical applications.
Visual Merchandising – STIJL lab demonstrated how a well-considered in-store presentation can enhance the shopping experience and improve commercial performance.
By combining strategic insights with practical applications, the sessions gave attendees the opportunity to discover new ideas and translate them into actionable steps for their own businesses.
Building Connections to Drive Progress
The day concluded with a networking reception, where attendees, speakers and partners continued their conversations and exchanged experiences. This underlined the importance of personal connections and collaboration within the footwear, sports and fashion industries.
Through Beyond the Trend, CAST and Textilia aim to encourage industry professionals to look beyond today's trends. By bringing together current knowledge, practical experience and fresh perspectives, the event provides a platform to explore developments, identify opportunities and look ahead together.
CAST and Textilia look back on a successful first edition of Beyond the Trend and would like to thank all attendees, speakers and partners for their valuable contributions. This inaugural edition provides a strong foundation for future events, with inspiration, knowledge sharing and industry connections remaining at the heart of the initiative.
