Despite having fewer exhibitors and a fewer number of visitors than the previous show in Münich four years ago, the 2011 edition of the International Exhibition of Textile Machinery (ITMA 2011) in Barcelona ended with results that far exceeded expectations for Shima Seiki.

Considering the current global economy and the fact that an overwhelming majority of textile production is located in China, the venue location of Barcelona, Spain did not offer consolation for concerns initially raised regarding cost-effectiveness of exhibiting at ITMA. Despite these seemingly unfavorable conditions, Shima Seiki, having strong interests remaining in Europe including Spain and other markets outside of East Asia, elected to exhibit, not to cater to any specific
market, but to pay homage to the traditions of ITMA as a showcase for new technology.

With "Solutions for Diversity" as its exhibit theme, Shima Seiki presented a range of products that reflected the dichotomy of the flat knitting machine market. Anticipating the ITMA visitor profile to include both high-volume export-oriented factories as well as manufacturers catering to local consumer markets, Shima exhibited a balanced cross-section of its entire lineup in both shaping and WHOLEGARMENT applications.

Moreover, Shima Seiki took the opportunity to demonstrate its role as leading innovator by unveiling an impressive number of first-time exhibits in the form of new models, gauges and prototypes. In fact, of the 13 models exhibited, 11 were new exhibits. Some noteworthy developments included the world's first flat knitting machine capable of shaping in 21 gauge, and a V-bed prototype machine equipped with two additional loop presser beds. All this was in sharp contrast with the rest of the exhibitors in the flat knitting sector, some of whom were first-time participants, but whose stands were essentially devoid of new technology.

Shima's efforts certainly seem to have paid off, with a higher-than-expected number of sales, prospective sales and inquiries. In fact, the total number of such inquiries were almost twice the number expected, resulting in more than twoand-a-half times the number of inquiries obtained at ITMA Münich. In addition, these inquiries were high not only in quantity but in quality as well, with a majority of them being "serious" to "very serious" prospects.

A steady flow of visitors to the Shima Seiki booth throughout the exhibition period was a pleasant surprise considering the fact that traffic usually tapers off after the weekend rush at ITMAs. In fact there were more visitors to the Shima booth on Tuesday and Wednesday than there were on Sunday. A balanced exhibit attracted considerable interest toward both shaping and WHOLEGARMENT machines. A notable increase in interest for the SDS-ONE APEX3 design system more than doubled the number of inquiries from ITMA 2007. This can be attributed to customers' realization of their increasing need for product planning and design for consumer markets. Demonstrations on were almost completely booked throughout the show, due to special interest in the photo-realism provided by virtual samples, by which Shima is advocating reduced sample-making.

From a commemorative standpoint, ITMA 2011 held significance for Shima Seiki as well. It was the company's 10th ITMA in which to participate. 2011 also marks its 50th year in business. The past 50 years has certainly been fruitful for Shima Seiki, having contributed major paradigm-changing advancements to the flat knitting industry. However, for Shima Seiki ITMA was not an occasion for celebrating the past but an opportunity to establish, once and for all, its position as leading
innovator and provide customers with the confidence and peace of mind that Shima can be depended upon for the next 50 years.

Despite current economic conditions the enthusiasm expressed by customers toward new technology and the resulting inquiries helped renew faith in the future of the knitting industry in Europe, its outlying regions and other markets. It was part of Shima Seiki's aim at ITMA to restore customer confidence in the future of knitting with a show of commitment to future progress. According to Shima Seiki's results, that aim seems to have been met with great success.

SHIMA SEIKI, WHOLEGARMENT, SDS, SDS-ONE and SDS-ONE APEX are trademarks or registered trademarks of Shima Seiki Mfg., Ltd. in Japan and/or other countries.
For more information please visit the SHIMA SEIKI Website at http://www.shimaseiki.com

About Shima Seiki
Shima Seiki Mfg., Ltd. of Wakayama, Japan is a leading manufacturer in the computerized flatbed knitting machine industry. With complete systems integration from planning, production to sales promotion and retail sales, Shima Seiki has been dedicating its products and services to the knitting industry worldwide through the latest in computerized knitting technology.

Shima Seiki is also the pioneer in complete garment manufacturing technology—called WHOLEGARMENT® —wherein an entire knitted garment is produced on the knitting machine without the need for linking or sewing afterward. Since its commercial introduction in 1995, Shima Seiki has been the undisputed leader in WHOLEGARMENT® knitting technology with over 25 years of ongoing research and over 15 years of proprietary field experience and know-how, not to mention over one thousand patents worldwide concerning machinery, programming, and stitch structure. Shima Seiki celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2012. This year, 2011 marks its 50th year in business.

Press Contact:
Mr. Masaki Karasuno, Planning Division
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