Moda x Pure celebrates South African creativity

Moda X Pure joins Autumn Fair, the UK’s leading marketplace for Home, Gift & Fashion, at the NEC Birmingham from 7–10 September 2025 with an exciting celebration of global craftsmanship.

Model wearing Rowdy Bags Playing a key role in this international showcase, the South African Footwear and Leather Export Council (SAFLEC) will lead a curated selection of exceptional brands, showcasing the country’s flair for quality, sustainability, and bold creativity. This growing international profile signals the rising appeal of South African-made products to UK and European buyers seeking fresh, design-led sourcing opportunities.

SAFLEC continues to champion export-ready South African businesses, creating valuable pathways to international markets and helping buyers discover products that embody authenticity, quality, and compelling brand stories. The line-up of brands at Moda x Pure reflects the country’s rich and diverse design identity. From artisanal footwear to premium leather goods and contemporary fashion, the collection strikes a balance between heritage craftsmanship and fresh, forward-looking aesthetics.

Hero brands exhibiting under the SAFLEC banner include Blu Betty, celebrated for its distinctly modern, handcrafted leather footwear designed and produced in Durban, Rowdy Bags, whose timeless leather backpacks and accessories have garnered a strong UK following, and Groundcover, known for its sustainable, hand-stitched leather boots and outdoor footwear.

Also showcasing are Burgundy Collective, offering premium leather bags and wallets with clean lines and understated elegance, and Zip & Zen (LDJ Collection), an emerging lifestyle brand that blends contemporary fashion with artisanal detail. Tuska Leather and ZA Gear bring a rugged aesthetic with beautifully made travel bags and accessories, while Nguni Shades adds flair with distinctive leather eyewear. The line-up is further enriched by Ekamu Brands and Sea Gems, each representing a unique expression of South African design ethos.

Nerisha Jairaj, Executive Director at SAFLEC, commented, “Autumn Fair provides the perfect platform to showcase South Africa’s finest in footwear, leather goods, and fashion. Our exhibitors represent bold design, ethical craftsmanship, and innovation rooted in heritage. With duty-free access and a growing appetite for South African-made products, this is an exciting moment to build fresh partnerships and explore the untapped potential of a dynamic, fast-growing nation. We invite buyers to come meet the makers and experience the creativity shaping Africa’s fashion frontier.”

Together, these brands exemplify the dynamic energy and innovation that Moda x Pure brings to the global sourcing stage. As a key platform for international trade, Moda x Pure offers UK and European buyers a unique opportunity to discover South Africa’s rich design culture and export-ready talent. Through its partnership with SAFLEC, the show continues to champion diversity, sustainability, and craftsmanship, connecting retailers with a new wave of bold, design-led products rooted in authenticity and cultural storytelling.

Rory McAuley General Manager at Rowdy bags said, “We’re proudly South African and can’t wait to share Rowdy Bags at Autumn Fair this September. In our Cape Town workshop, skilled makers handcraft each bag from premium fullgrain Namibian leather, taking the time to perfect every detail. Built to last a lifetime and backed by our repairforlife promise, every bag carries the story, heart, and skill of its maker. Come and explore our mostloved designs, feel the quality for yourself, and meet one of our talented makers, here from South Africa to share the journey behind your next bag.”

Nihat Berktas, Head of International Development at Hyve Retail & Fashion added, “We are once again excited to welcome South African collections to our event. The UK is both a culturally natural and strategically important market for South Africa, particularly since the UK-South African country’s trade agreement. We are committed to supporting these brands by helping them prepare and promote themselves ahead of the show, ensuring they can attract the right buyers. This year, visitors can look forward to a vibrant mix of accessories, bags, footwear, and clothing.”

With South African creativity taking its place among a global line-up of world-class exhibitors, Moda x Pure at Autumn Fair 2025 is set to deliver an inspiring showcase of design, innovation, and opportunity. Whether sourcing premium footwear, leather goods, or contemporary fashion accessories, buyers can expect fresh perspectives and standout craftsmanship across the show.

Autumn Fair takes place from 7–10 September 2025 at the NEC Birmingham—register now to discover the best in Home, Gift & Fashion from around the world: www.autumnfair.com.

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