The 5^th edition of the International Apparel Sourcing Show that took place at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City last month succeeded in maintaining its significance for the apparel sourcing industry.

The event featured 193 exhibitors from 9 different countries including China, Mauritus, Colombia, Guatemala, Pakistan and the United States. 

Visitors took advantage of the many services offered by the show exhibitors, such as contract manufacturing, original design manufacturing and private label development.

Market growth

Together with co-located Texworld USA and Home Textiles Sourcing Expo, the shows welcomed 5,895 verified attendees, which is an 11% increase comparing with last year.

 “We continue to see a growth in this market which is consistent with our 20% increase in space rented to garment manufacturers from the key sourcing countries in the Far East and South America,” said Dennis Smith, President of Messe Frankfurt North America. “The buzz on the floor began immediately after opening and lasted completely through to the end of the show.”

Sourcing options

Messe Frankfurt organises the International Apparel Sourcing Show together with the Sub-Council of Textile Industry, China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT TEX). 

Lin Yunfeng, Vice Chairman of CCPIT TEX commented: “In cooperation with Messe Frankfurt, we are very proud to present a diversified apparel sourcing platform to the American market.  Apparel Sourcing has successfully integrated suppliers from multiple countries that have adapted to the changing US consumer markets.  The co-location with Texworld USA provides buyers access to the full spectrum of sourcing options for apparel fabrics and manufacturing.”

Country pavilions

Attendees had access to several new and returning companies and countries represented on the show floor.  Among the popular destinations were the returning Mauritius and Colombia pavilions as well as first time pavilion participants from Guatemala.  Buyers were also able to view products from first time exhibitors from Mongolia.

 “The International Apparel Sourcing Show provides an excellent opportunity to meet new apparel suppliers with various areas of expertise from numerous countries around the world.  The venue is excellent and the proximity to the New York Garment Center makes it so convenient.  I have been going to the show for years and have always found it helpful and beneficial to my business,” commented Abe Mamiye, Vice President of Global Sourcing, Mamiye Brothers.

Complimentary seminars

Adding to the attendee experience, Lenzing Innovation organised a diverse offering of complimentary seminars. 

Over the three day event, the seminar sessions were attended by 1,685 total participants, 912 of which were unique.  This year’s seminar series benefited from a 17% increase in attendance compared to July 2013 and is the most attended to date, according to the show organisers.  A few of the most popular sessions include:  The What, Where and How of Garment Production, Preferred Fibers, Making the Right Fiber Choices and How Not to Start a Fashion Brand.

www.apparelsourcingshow.com