Eco-friendly materials in spotlight at Texworld

"Close monitoring of markets is one of the strong points of the Messe Frankfurt France trade fairs. Texworld Paris unquestionably benefits from this advantage. Back in 2009, we set up a series of special events to promote environmentally friendly materials and provide exposure for sustainable development. We belong to a global group that originated in Germany, a country that very much values sustainable development. As a pioneer 10 years ago, we felt that this idea was about to ask fundamental questions of the world. We were one of the first to take the plunge. So we set up a circuit and forums dedicated specifically to this idea for growth. I am delighted with the very keen interest demonstrated this session," stressed Michael Scherpe, president of Messe Frankfurt France, fair organiser.

"This edition was marked by the public’s growing interest in sustainable and responsible production," said Alice Wong, from the Chinese printing firm Chicley, an exhibitor. Demand concentrated on several areas: natural materials, environmentally correct processes, obtaining certification, and the concept of recycling fibres, which was fairly new to visitors. "Some customers only come to look for firms whose innovative production respects the environment, for recycled or for organic products," explained Aditya Sawant, who was managing the stand at Nahar Industrial Enterprises, a large Indian textiles group. Those searching for these types of products found the Sustainable Development circuit a great help, as it showcased exhibitors that observe the criteria for sustainable materials, environmentally friendly processes or transparent social standards.

In parallel with this trend, and still very much in keeping with the Avantex Paris show, fabrics or manufacturing methods that incorporated innovation attracted visitors’ attention. "Our textiles, cut using 3D laser cutting, were among our bestsellers this season," said Hussain Al Beer, manager for premium materials at the Dubai firm Yaser & Mayasa.

"Prime contractors attended the shows in the first place for work and to satisfy their curiosity. I am delighted to see the full effects of our strategy – encouraging contact with the materials, the skills and the people who offer them. It is an approach that I want to keep pursuing, no matter what, as nothing is a substitute for actual dialogue with the people and the materials. The almost febrile appetite of visitors thronging the aisles during the first few hours of the shows gives me encouragement in this respect," added Scherpe. (RR)

Fibre2Fashion News Desk – India