Buyers aim to look for reliable suppliers @ Intertextile

Attending buyers include one of the top five American home textile importers, Victoria Classic, which is a business partner of large retailers and wholesalers such as Wal-Mart, Macy’s and Freds. Also attending will be Al Aqil Furnishings, a leading interior design contractor for residents and hotels, and AIC Gruppo, an interior design company specialising in design, space planning, manufacturing and installation for commercial projects from UAE. Home furnishings retailer NIBICO International from Taiwan, rugs, carpets and blanket importer Via Star Com from Brazil, beddings producer Minasglobal Ind Com De Artefatos Texteis from Brazil and home textile trading companies Adan Traders and Shamojee Fabrics & Carpets from Pakistan will also be present at the fair.

Facing rising raw material costs, a majority of buyers are hoping to find quality suppliers and products at the fair. “Material cost is affecting the price of finished products, therefore we want to build long-term business relations with professional suppliers who can produce well-designed and quality products in a reasonable price range,” said Mr Alouzn Moutaz Mohamad, General Manager for Al Aqili Furnishings. Mr Francesco Aveta, Managing Director for AIC Gruppo also agreed with Mr Mohamad and said: “We are looking for alternative sources and are hoping to find reliable suppliers and innovative products at the fair.”

Applying different materials has become a solution for increasing profit margin in some regions. “Our key product is fashion bedding. The US market is applying thinner and lighter fabrics to make greater profits. Voiles, microfibres and printing on poly fabrics are also popular. I am looking forward to find suppliers specialise in producing these products at the fair.” said Mr Jonathan Zhu, Sourcing Manager for Victoria Classic.

To better accommodate buyers’ demand, the fair organisers provide business match-making services, pairing up selected buyers and exhibitors with similar requirements. Mr Zhu further commented: “It is a great programme, as it saves time and energy for both buyers and suppliers.”

In addition to key international buyers, influential trade associations such as, Project China-Europe Textile Alliance, Sistema Moda Italia, Malaysian Textile Manufacturer's Association, Taiwan Weaving Industrial Association, Thailand Textile Institute are also invited to organise buyer delegations to visit the fair.