World’s largest trade fair organizer, Messe Frankfurt believes, demand for new and unique products has increased since last year with consumers emphasizing on quality over quantity. As seen from the first-hand accounts from exhibitors and buyers from the Intertextile Shanghai Apparel Fabrics editions in September 2020 and March 2021, and Intertextile Shenzhen Apparel Fabrics in July 2020, the pandemic has popularized anti-bacterial, anti-viral and other health related concepts.

Buyers are placing orders in small quantities. They are also ordering more patterns, brands and categories. In terms of consumer trends, people are now paying more attention to functional fabrics, such as anti-bacterial and sustainable products, which I think will prove to be even more popular in the future, says Hui Zhang, Regional Sales Manager, Beijing Vitality Textiles Co, China.

The pandemic has accelerated Chinese consumers’ high requirements for product quality and safety, adds David Chu, general manager, Shanghai Baosai International Trade Co. The overriding feeling that textile industry is recovering and progressing in China dominated conversations at the fair amongst the nearly 2,600 exhibitors and 80,000-plus buyers.