The gateway to Asia's home living, Intertextile Shanghai Home Textiles which was recently held at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai) across 170,520 square meters from 26 – 28 August, 2015 set new records for exhibitor, visitor and exhibition space figures.

More than 43,000 trade buyers and around 1,402 exhibitors from 30 countries and regions attended Intertextile.

Wendy Wen, senior general manager of Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd said that going beyond the record figures, there were a number of other aspects that were just as pleasing such as the increase in internationality of participants, and the number of first-time overseas exhibitors who were seeking out opportunities in the Asian market. They also had a number of new product zones, as well as returning ones, which proved extremely popular, while their new InterDesign programme attracted huge crowds to the Trend Area, Trend Concept Show and seminars.

The fair took place against a backdrop of economic uncertainty in China, but this did not appear to dampen the enthusiasm of both new and returning overseas exhibitors that target the Chinese mid-range and high-end markets, with many reporting that they do not expect to be adversely affected.

In recent years, the fair has placed a big emphasis on providing opportunities for exhibitors that match market demand through relevant product zones, with the new Whole-Home Style and digital printing areas joining the existing Exquisite Europe, Intertextile Design Boutique, editors and carpet & rug zones this year.

Returning Chinese company Lezai Dongfang Culture was one such exhibitor, with Jake Ji, general manager, saying that being in the Whole-Home Style zone has been a big advantage as it attracts their target buyers to their booth. After only one and a half days, they received so many enquiries from China’s top designers, buying offices and agents, and many have placed orders.

Buyers also appreciated the zones, as well as the internationality of the fair. It’s very beneficial for them to visit the fair as it gathers suppliers from around the world. The International Hall is their favourite as having the different product zones and country pavilions makes it easier for them to locate their targeted suppliers and products, Mr David Costantini, Director, Profile Fabrics, Australia said.

As well as the product zones the fair’s fringe programme also responds to the demands of the local market, with the new InterDesign programme a response to the increased need for design and trend information from the growing middle and upper classes in China. In addition to the Trend Area, which was designed by the NellyRodiTM Agency, a new Trend Concept Show matched China’s top interior designers with eight leading brands including LaCanTouch, Brilliant & Refined, Designers Guild, Uniwal, Jean Paul Gaultier, Pt, Dedar and JAB Anstoetz to bring the trends in the Trend Area to life.

Intertextile Shanghai Home Textiles – Autumn Edition was organised by Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd; the Sub-Council of Textile Industry, CCPIT; and the China Home Textile Association. The next Autumn Edition will take place Aug. 24-26 next year.