St. Petersburg, long celebrated for its cultural and intellectual contributions, is now making waves in the global fashion industry. With over 4.6 million people employed in Russia's creative economy—6.2% of the country's workforce—the city is becoming a focal point for innovation in fashion and design. According to recent data, the creative sector has contributed 9.4 trillion rubles to the national economy over the past five years, with 2.3 trillion rubles coming from the fashion and design industries alone.
The "Petersburg Design" project has been instrumental in fostering local talent. In its third season, the initiative supported 200 brands, with 13 designers opening their own stores since 2022. By 2024, 26 brands gained access to multi-brand stores in St. Petersburg and Moscow under favorable terms. The project has evolved from mitigating the impact of international brands leaving the market to creating a thriving ecosystem for local businesses in light industry and design.
Beyond retail, the project has emphasized education and collaboration. Partnering with leading institutions like the British Higher School of Design and St. Petersburg State University of Industrial Technologies and Design, it offers training programs for entrepreneurs in the fashion industry. Designers also have opportunities to showcase capsule collections and participate in events like Podium Seasons, further solidifying St. Petersburg's reputation as a creative hub.
Rodion Maltsev, founder of the Gerrusi clothing brand, highlighted the importance of such initiatives for business growth and community building. He stressed the need for economic education for designers to help them navigate the challenges of running a business. Meanwhile, the project's organizers are planning to expand sales channels through integration with major marketplaces and launch a new accelerator program for brands.
As St. Petersburg continues to nurture its creative industries, it is poised to become not just a cultural capital, but a global leader in fashion and design.
