Trade show producer Messe Frankfurt said Thursday that it plans to utilize a virtual platform for its July New York textile events, following many organizers that have made similar decisions due to COVID-19 concerns and restrictions.
With the aim of supporting the sourcing community through these unprecedented times, the summer edition of Texworld USA, Apparel Sourcing USA and Home Textiles Sourcing Expo will be presented across digital platforms. Originally scheduled to be held at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City, these co-located events can now be accessed live from July 21-23. Registration will open in the coming weeks.
“This was a pivotal decision in ensuring the future success of the shows,” Constantin von Vieregge, president and CEO of Messe Frankfurt North America, said. “Messe Frankfurt has existed for several hundred years by being open to innovation, while still serving the needs of the market. Amending the platform for this edition allowed us to be considerate of the changing textile industry and global business climate.”
Texworld USA, Apparel Sourcing USA and Home Textiles Sourcing Expo have served the sourcing community for more than a decade, providing access to international textile manufacturers, trend forecasting experts and innovative educational sessions. The transition to a virtual event for the summer edition reinforces the commitment to supporting the industry through both good and challenging times, organizers said.
With the returning support of long-standing international and domestic exhibitors, the July events will have similar features found on the trade show floor. An online showroom will highlight material innovations, while allowing visitors to talk with representatives about areas such as specific requirements and factory options.
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A comprehensive educational program will run alongside the exhibitor presentations, with topics ranging from sustainability initiatives, and environmental and ethical impacts to business tips and sourcing options amid a pandemic. Comprised of thought leaders and textile experts, these interactive discussions will share insights on how businesses can collaborate to bring about change individually, locally and globally.
“Despite the current uncertainty that we are facing, we are excited to open our July events virtually,” show director Jennifer Bacon said. “Although nothing will ever replace face-to-face interaction, connecting textile mills and manufacturers from across the globe with U.S. buyers seeking avenues to source fabrics and accessories remains our focus–to provide a platform for product discovery, trend analysis and education.”