Santoni China Group is set to debut an integrated circular knitting ecosystem under the theme ‘Machines Evolved · Intelligence Delivered,’ at the ITM 2026 exhibition in Istanbul, from June 9–13. This initiative marks a definitive transition from standalone machinery to a unified production environment. By consolidating flagship brands - including Terrot, Jingmei, and Santoni (Shanghai) - into a single technological stack, the group addresses the industry's shift toward high-performance technical textiles. The showcase centers on high-precision double-knit and interlock applications, critical for the global athleisure sector, which is projected to reach $600 billion by 203Santoni China Group.
Digital intelligence and component precision
A cornerstone of the 2026 strategy is the Santoni Knitting Industrial Internet Platform (KIIP). This digital infrastructure enables real-time production monitoring and data-driven process optimization, effectively closing the gap between hardware and operational intelligence. Complementing this is the integration of SMC/Qiguan cylinder manufacturing, which combines German engineering with localized production to ensure mechanical compatibility across diverse knitting platforms. This synergy is designed to help manufacturers navigate a global circular knitting machine market expected to grow at a 3.4 per cent CAGR, reaching $2.9 billion by 2034.
Optimizing complex fabric structures
Technological highlights at the booth include the Terrot I3P 196-F BW, engineered for sophisticated double-face fabrics that integrate synthetic yarns for superior moisture management and shape retention. Additionally, the Jingmei JTB-P platform will demonstrate specialized 5-layer fabric capabilities, catering to the rising demand for technical outerwear and protective textiles. By focusing on ‘open width’ technologies and high-feeder counts, Santoni aims to reduce typical cycle times by 15–20 per cent, providing a strategic advantage as regional manufacturing hubs in Turkey and South Asia move toward high-value, sustainable production models.
A global knitting leader
Santoni China Group is a premier provider of circular and seamless knitting solutions, managing a portfolio of heritage and high-growth brands like Terrot and Jingmei. With a strong focus on R&D and digital intelligence (KIIP), the group serves international markets from athletic wear to medical textiles. Its 2026 roadmap prioritizes the deployment of intelligent manufacturing ecosystems across key textile clusters in Europe and Asia.
