Key highlights included the Spring Edition debut of Econogy Hub; the spring show’s largest-ever Japan Pavilion, Hong Kong Pavilion and France Zone; 13 Econogy Talks seminars; and two new display areas for functional fashion. As buyers crossed paths with over 3,100 exhibitors from 25 countries and regions at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai), a wide range of industry players was represented onsite and optimistic about future business.
Econogy Hub made its first appearance at the Spring Edition of Intertextile Shanghai Apparel Fabrics (Source: Messe Frankfurt)
At the fair’s close, Ms Wilmet Shea, General Manager of Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd, spoke to its importance: “This is one of the most omprehensive fairs for the global textile industry, both for sourcing and information exchange, located in the heart of the world’s largest market and production hub. And it is clear that despite global issues affecting every sector, fairgoers have been happy with the business done across the fairground, and reiterated that there is no substitute for the in-person business and connections at this fair.”
Ms Shea continued: “Intertextile Shanghai Apparel Fabrics is a platform that offers opportunities to the entire industry, no matter the size of the company, where they’re from, or the type of product, and the fantastic participation of returning and new exhibitors and visitors this spring demonstrates their votes of confidence.”
Full spectrum of apparel industry represented at Shanghai showcase
From fashion fabrics and accessories and functional fashion, to sustainability, innovation and digital transformation, prospects for the industry’s future were on show across the show’s seven halls. In addition to a host of domestic exhibitors grouped by product end use, the fair gave a platform to seven country and region pavilions and zones (France, Hong Kong, Italy, Japan, Korea, Taiwan, and Türkiye), three group pavilions (Ecocert, Korea Textile Center, and Lenzing), and seven featured zones (Digital Printing Zone, Digital Solutions Zone, Econogy Hub, Functional Lab, Premium Wool Zone, SalonEurope, and Verve for Design).
Compared to the previous Spring Edition, there was an overseas exhibitor increase of nearly 15%, with a more than 50% return rate, while over 100 suppliers made their debuts in the International Hall. Beyond showcasing at their booths, exhibitors submitted visual- tactile samples to not only the Intertextile Directions Trend Forum, but also to two new display zones: The CUBE (Functional Lab), and the Functional Suiting Display Area (Premium Wool Zone).
Exhibitors’ feedback
“We are a sustainable materials and trims company from Sweden, specialising in packaging, labelling, trims, and digital innovation. This is our first time exhibiting at Intertextile Apparel, and it has been very satisfying overall. Particularly, the VIP Tour provided us with an excellent opportunity for in-depth discussions with high-end buyers. What most incentivised our participation was the specially curated Econogy Hub, bringing together sustainable exhibitors. Connected with Econogy Talks, this created an integrated ‘exhibition + seminar’ model, offering a one-stop experience for sourcing and knowledge sharing, and giving more value to exhibitors and buyers.” Ms. Karen Chui, Merchandising Manager, Rudholm Group, Sweden
“We have been to Intertextile Apparel for 25 years straight, and the three features we value here are fashion, function and sustainability, which match with our products. A great pool of industry players from all over the world has gathered here. Exhibiting at this fair helps us explore high-end clients from China and greatly boosts our business. This time, we have brought high-quality stretch fabric for suiting and jackets and received good feedback, with many potential clients from China and Australia coming to our booth on just the first day.” Mr Rejno Marangone, Sales Director, Vitale Barberis Canonico SpA, Italy
“This is our first time exhibiting at this fair, which attracts a high visitor flow, and many quality buyers. Several brand buyers attended with their entire teams, which reflects their recognition of the show’s positioning. This platform is ideal for different materials, fabrics, manufacturers, and brands to connect and learn from each another. That’s why this fair is very important to us, and we plan to return to the next edition. Our product lavalan® is a thermal wool fabric that is natural and fully biodegradable. Thanks to its comfort and breathability, wool is increasingly being used in functional fabrics.” Mr Johnson Qiu, General Manager, Shanghai Ruizha New Material Co Ltd (agent of Baur Vliesstoffe GmbH), Germany
Visitors’ comments
“Intertextile Apparel is a platform I know very well, where my team and I can meet many suppliers. The business matching which Messe Frankfurt coordinated was a great help. We have found a few interesting items, one is sustainable materials in the synthetics itself, such as Sorona; some milk protein-based fabrics; as well as recycled nylon products. Sustainability and functionality really stand out at this platform, and we can find more innovations than within our sourcing network. I don’t think online will ever replace in-person sourcing, because in-person you have that human touch and connection.” Mr Ganesh Anantha, VP- Operations, XYXX, India
| The fair was co-organised by Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd; the Sub-Council of Textile Industry, CCPIT; and the China Textile Information Centre. It took place alongside Yarn Expo Spring, Intertextile Shanghai Home Textiles – Spring Edition, CHIC and PH Value at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai). For more details on this fair, please visit: www.intertextileapparel.com. |
Source: Intertextile Shanghai
Photo: Messe Frankfurt
