At ITMA ASIA + CITME 2024, the Karl Mayer Group showcased its technological innovations at both its Shanghai exhibit and a successful in-house show at its Changzhou facility. This event, held a day before the trade fair, marked Stoll’s debut of an in-house format for its Chinese clientele, attracting around 140 industry professionals in technical and management roles.
A highlight of the show was the unveiling of the Stoll TexLab, a comprehensive space designed for the flat knitting sector. The TexLab serves as a multifunctional hub where visitors can explore advanced Stoll technologies, test new yarns, and create experimental patterns. The space also features cutting-edge machinery, including the CMS 530 with gauge E20 for fine quality knitwear.
Stoll’s latest Trend Collection and various sample pieces generated significant interest, particularly in high-gauge machines and knit and wear technology. The event saw extensive discussions on digitalization, smart factories, and AI-driven production, reflecting future trends in the industry.
Rene Ludvigsen, Chief Sales & Product Asia at Stoll, noted positive responses and expressed intent to expand this format. New contracts and projects were secured, and Stoll gained insights into evolving market needs. While customers showed optimism, they highlighted concerns over price pressures. However, niche markets like cashmere and own brands are expected to maintain steady growth, with Stoll committed to supporting them with innovative machinery and solutions.