UKFT made a resounding return to Intertextile Shanghai after a four-year hiatus, leading a contingent of 12 UK companies and showcasing fabrics from an additional 21. This return underscores the growing significance of the Chinese and broader Asian textile markets for UK businesses.
UK Presence amidst global textile titans
The UK pavilion, nestled within the prestigious Salon Europe at Intertextile, hosted renowned British textile manufacturers alongside their Chinese agents. The UKFT stand, drawing inspiration from its successful displays at Milano Unica, further amplified the UK's presence, featuring a wide array of fabrics and swatches, including those from Lochcarron and Macnaughton, riding the wave of tartan and tweed popularity following Dior's Cruise 2025 show.
Fostering connections and celebrating achievements
UKFT actively engaged with attendees, distributing bilingual handouts to facilitate connections between buyers and UK companies. The organization also participated in the show's 30th-anniversary celebrations, receiving an Outstanding Contribution Award on behalf of the UK textile industry.
Navigating complexities and embracing opportunities
The show highlighted both the challenges and opportunities presented by the Chinese market. While UK companies often approach China with caution, the market's vast potential for quality imported fabrics and innovative prints remains undeniable. The dominance of Asian exhibitors at Intertextile and the concurrent CHIC fair further emphasizes the region's growing influence on the global textile landscape.
Sustainability: A key focus with divergent definitions
Sustainability emerged as a central theme, with Chinese products showcasing a strong focus on sustainable practices and technical innovation. However, the Asian definition of sustainability differs from the Western perspective, presenting both challenges and opportunities for UK businesses.
UKFT's positive outlook and future plans
Despite initial concerns, UKFT reported a positive response at Intertextile, with strong interest from Chinese and international buyers. Buoyed by this success, UKFT plans to return to Intertextile Shanghai in August 2025 and explore Messe Frankfurt’s new VIATT textile show in Vietnam in February 2025.
China's growing role and UK's strategic engagement
The show reinforced China's increasingly central role in the global textile industry. As the Asian market continues to expand, UKFT encourages UK companies to proactively engage with this region and seize the opportunities it offers.
