The fair will be held from 12-14 March at the National Exhibition and Convention Centre (Shanghai). © Intertextile Shanghai Apparel Fabrics

Sourcing needs have diversified in the apparel textiles industry, and flexible solutions can be found at Intertextile Shanghai Apparel Fabrics. Next week, the fair will gather a variety of suppliers from all over the world, the majority of which can meet specific sourcing needs, such as smaller quantity orders, fast turnarounds and custom-made products.

With access to exhibitor lists and onsite appointment scheduling available now, planning a visit to this year’s Spring Edition is easier than ever, organisers report. “This fair is the alpha to find new suppliers, and the alpha for relationship building with companies as everyone is here,” said Nicola Grosso of Brooks Brothers (USA) at the 2018 Spring Edition. “It’s good to come here to learn who the actual manufacturers are, it’s easier to manage suppliers by coming here as you have more direct contact. Timing is the first thing in fashion, so it’s important to have this direct contact.”

The multi-national nature of the fair, which in 2018 welcomed 82,314 visitors from 104 countries and regions, attracts a variety of exhibitors, including Chinese suppliers, who are looking to do business overseas and so are willing to be flexible in order to meet buyers’ needs, such as fast turnarounds. With exhibitors offering product-in-stock services across almost all product groups, the fair offers a unique opportunity for businesses to fulfil onsite orders, acting as a catalyst for building strong relationships.

Visitors can also access extensive exhibitor lists ahead of time, allowing buyers to browse the products on offer with a quick glance. © Intertextile Shanghai Apparel Fabrics

“While Intertextile Apparel is well established as a leading platform for the industry to gather and meet large, seasonal orders, some exhibitors will also accept smaller order quantities,” say organisers. “This feature will benefit a wide variety of buyers with different needs – whether they are smaller brands, companies testing the market with a new end-use product, or even buyers wishing to try out a supplier’s service in order to find the right partnership to suit their needs. Plenty of exhibitors across product categories also offer custom-made services, attracting visitors who need to stand out in the competitive global apparel market.”

Supporting businesses who wish to extend their reach overseas, Intertextile Apparel also offers interpreter services, and includes this in its VIP Business Matching Programme, which schedules tailor-made appointments between like-minded potential business partners.

Visitors can also access extensive exhibitor lists ahead of time, allowing buyers to browse the products on offer with a quick glance. This includes a comprehensive list of exhibitors who offer export, product-in-stock, small-order and custom-made services – and visitors can request to make an onsite appointment with these suppliers. Onsite, visitors can also check out the Intertextile Directions Trend Forum, a useful stop which guides buyers directly from fabric sample to exhibitor booth.

Held from 12-14 March at the National Exhibition and Convention Centre (Shanghai), the fair will take place concurrently with Intertextile Shanghai Home Textiles, Yarn Expo Spring, PH Value and CHIC.

www.intertextileapparel.com