Sustainability takes centerstage
Intertextile Apparel 2024 is set to reinforce its commitment to sustainability in the textile industry by launching the new Econogy Hub. The show, known for over a decade of promoting greener industry practices through its "All About Sustainability" zone, is now elevating its efforts by adopting Messe Frankfurt’s global TexpertiseEconogy concept. This rebranded and enhanced focus will include not only the Econogy Hub but also a range of eco-conscious features and innovations.
The fair will feature seven eco-focused group pavilions, three sustainable display areas, an ecoBoutique, and cutting-edge innovations showcased in the Digital Solutions Zone. These initiatives aim to highlight the latest in sustainable textile practices and products, offering attendees a comprehensive view of the industry's shift towards eco-friendliness.
Econogy hub: A new focal point
The Econogy Hub will be the heart of Intertextile Apparel's sustainability efforts. This new zone will host eco-fabric suppliers, certification providers, and other key players in the sustainable textile sector.
Key players within the Econogy Hub include industry giants like Bureau Veritas Group, specializing in testing and certification, and Cotecna Group, offering accreditation for various sustainability standards. Eastco Industries, a GOTS-certified woven fabric manufacturer, will showcase organic and recycled fabrics. And TextileGenesis, a Lectra company, is introducing an innovative traceability platform to ensure the authenticity and provenance of sustainable textiles.
Eco-focused group pavilions and display areas
The fair will also feature eco-focused group pavilions, including those from Ecocert, Hyosung, Lenzing, Lycra, Oeko-Tex, Prutex, and Sorona. These pavilions will showcase over 130 downstream suppliers, with Prutex making its debut to highlight products like Prueco, the first chemically regenerated nylon.
Sustainable display areas will be presented by Lycra, Birla Cellulose, and Idole/Mitsubishi. Meanwhile, the ecoBoutique will offer a curated selection of products from brands like Unifi and ZhangjiagangVcare, further demonstrating the industry's commitment to eco-friendly practices.
Digital solutions zone: Navigating the future of textiles
In addition to its sustainability focus, Intertextile Apparel 2024 will introduce the Digital Solutions Zone. This zone will feature cutting-edge technologies and innovations that are shaping the future of the textile industry. Key exhibitors include:
Shima Seiki: A Japanese multinational known for its industry-leading knitting machinery, design systems, and CAD/CAM systems. Their technology has applications across fashion, sportswear, healthcare, and even automotive and aeronautical sectors.
Symmpix: A premier digital solutions provider, Symmpix will showcase AI-powered fabric search, AI pattern generation, 3D visualisation tools, digital product creation, virtual catwalks, and showrooms.
Both Shima Seiki and Symmpix will also participate in the fair’s Digital Transformation Forum, presenting their innovations and engaging in panel discussions on how digital solutions are revolutionizing the textile industry.
Fringe programmes and collaborations
As part of the broader fringe programme, attendees can also look forward to presentations on technology and solutions that enhance supply chain transparency, AI-driven textile product development, and innovations in recycling. Avery Dennison will discuss integrated solutions for supply chain transparency, while Unifi will present on Repreve powered by Textile Takeback, a product that converts textile waste into recycled polyester products.
Co-organised by Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd, the Sub-Council of Textile Industry (CCPIT), and the China Textile Information Centre, Intertextile Apparel 2024 will be held at the National Exhibition and Convention Center in Shanghai. The event will run alongside Yarn Expo Autumn, CHIC, and PH Value, providing a holistic view of the entire apparel textile value chain, with sustainability at its core.
