APLF 2009, launching in Hong Kong today, marks APLF’s 25th Anniversary of serving the global leather and related industries. Three closely related events running concurrently reveals an industry that is reasonably buoyant despite prevailing economic conditions.
Although the market and the technology have changed greatly during the quarter century since the inaugural Hong Kong Leather Fair in 1984 the event rapidly developed as the leading event of the industry. Today’s business environment can be termed challenging (at best), but APLF continues to be the one place in Asia where the industry can meet face to face, handle the materials, talk business, discuss orders, keep abreast of developing fashion trends, network, and remain current on technology and innovation ……. even greet old friends and gossip. Business continues, regardless of external factors.
Even so, 25 years is a milestone for any company, and there will be a recognition award ceremony to some of the key industry players who participated in the original exhibition or played a significant role in its early years.
An indication of how much has altered over the years is demonstrated below:
More People:
1984 - the global population was approx 4.5 billion
2007 - the global population was approx 6.6 billion
More People - More Shoes:
1984 - global footwear production approx 8 billion pairs
2007 - global footwear production approx 15 - 16 billion pairs
More Shoes - More Finished Leather:
1984 - top producers of bovine finished leather were India, Argentina, Brazil, France & Pakistan
2007 - top producers of finished leather (all sorts) in order were China, Italy, Brazil, Russia, Korea & India
More Finished Leather - More Raw Material:
1984 - 12.5 billion ft2
2007 - 23 billion ft2
More Raw Material - More Locations:
1984 - approx 40% from the developing world
2007 - approx 60% from the developing world
More Locations!
China alone accounts for 40% of world leather production.
(Figures supplied by BLC Leather Technology Centre)
There have been significant developments of the APLF exhibitions themselves. Originally, first and foremost a show for the leather industry, the focus quickly broadened into a host of related activities. Those changes are reflected in the three events which start today.
APLF - Materials, Manufacturing & Technology (APLF - MM&T)
Encompassing the full spectrum of leather production from raw material to finished product, dyes and chemicals and machinery. This is the leading international event in Asia for those that make, supply, specify, buy, consult or advise, have a fetish for or otherwise use leather.
Fashion Access (FA)
Held twice a year (March & October) FA is Asia’s leading exhibition for footwear, leather and fur garments, bags and handbags, travelware, leather goods fashion accessories and lifestyle products. The event starting today will focus heavily on trend forecasts for the Fall/Winter 2009-10 Season.
Prime Source Forum (PSF)
Brings together leading figures from the global apparel industry in a unique, non-competitive environment which allows for the open and frank discussion on how best to handle problems common to them all. It is also a superb networking opportunity.
Informative Seminars and Conferences
Reflecting popular demand there are 11 on-site seminars, more than ever before, and they run throughout the full three days of the exhibition. Entry to most is free of charge. They cover the full spectrum: from future trends, design and technical topics, through to ‘state of the world markets’. All these seminars are conducted by established industry professionals who are ready to pass on their accumulated expertise and share valuable experiences.
Over the course of the next three days over 1,700 exhibitors, from 63 countries and regions will meet and greet some 37,000 buyers* from all over the world. Around 200 of these exhibitors will be attending the fair for the first time.
(* Verified number for 2008)
Providing a platform for that indespensible face-to-face contact is an essential service for an industry covering so many countries, customs and ways of doing business. APLF Director, Michael Duck, summed it up by noting, “We, in the Trade Fair sector, are here to help stimulate and encourage trade during the bad times as well as the good. Our role is to support the industry by providing such trade shows / platforms to meet and stimulate business.”
MM&T, FA and PSF are ‘must attend’ events within the global industry.