Sponsor: Industrial Fabrics Association International, Roseville, MN
Site: Charlotte Convention Center, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
Dates: October 21-23, 2008
Industry: Textiles
Fees: Exhibits – Pre-Reg – Free; On Site – TBD; Conferences – Discount for IBP being considered.
Size: 91,100 nsf Exhibitors: 442 Attendees: 7,200
Show Description: IFAI Expo is the largest annual specialty fabrics industry exposition in the United States. Most of the exhibitors are U.S.-based suppliers. This is a proven trade exhibition and conference that showcases American-made products and services. Technical textiles is the only segment of the U.S. textile industry that is experiencing significant exports into countries like Korea, India and China. The U.S. exports USD92 million of specialty fabrics into China and another USD70 million into Hong Kong. Exports to China have grown 79% since 2002. Exports to developing countries such as Russia and Brazil had double-digit percentage increases in just the past year.
Product Categories: Woven Fabrics, Nonwoven Fabrics, Knitted Fabrics, Laminated Fabrics, Coated Fabrics, Composite Materials, Fibers, Yarns, Film, Textile Forming Equipment, Sewing Equipment, Heat Seaming Equipment, Graphics and Printing Equipment, Tools, Chemicals and Compounds Used in Fibers, Fabrics and Applications, Adhesives, Testing Equipment and Services.
Technical Program: Up to 10 one-day symposiums and workshops, which focus on specific end-product markets, manufacturer techniques and business-related management courses. IFAI Expo 2006 offered symposia on: Automotive Materials, Fabric Architecture & Lightweight Structures, Marine Fabrication, Awnings & Small Structures, Medical Textiles, Sewing & Fabric, Textiles & Graphics were offered.
Marketing Program: IFAI employs three international representatives stationed in Japan, France and China; Advertisements; IFAI publications; IFAI exhibit stands at international trade shows; IFAI published promotional brochures, including several bi-lingual; Internet website; International direct mailing marketing campaign.
Attendee Benefits: Free international reception, small token gifts of appreciation and a short welcome speech by both the IFAI Chairman of the Board and the IFAI President. An international visitor lounge is provided at the IFAI Expo.
International Attendee Profile: The IFAI Expo is an international event with participants from more than 50 countries. Strong attendance comes from countries such as Mexico, Canada, Australia, China, Japan, Germany and India.