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APLF HONG KONG 2024
(19-21 March , Hong Kong Convetion and Exhibition Center)
Rating to APLF Hong Kong 2024
Product (What): 4/5
Packaging (How): 4/5
Information,
Just before the Covid pandemic engulfed the entire world, APLF Hong Kong ’18 was organised and after six years, APLF Hong Kong 2024 reappeared with great excitement.
During this time period, the workflow of the leather industry had already changed, there had been shifts in order seasons, and some unusual situations had occurred in the raw material supply chain which the world was not accustomed all these things.
The ‘Ever Given’ crisis in the Suez Canal, the increasing container shortages exacerbated by this crisis, raw material supply difficulties experienced by chemical producers, fluctuations in price and quality balance, and of course, the irregular order periods experienced by leather producers were the extraordinary situations experienced during this period.
For many years, Hong Kong, as one of the major trade centers within the leather industry, had taken on the role of hosting the convergence of East and West on a common ground. Especially before 2010, the periods when China was defined as a growing and active market coincided with the period when American brands and European chain brands opened their offices.
There were two main markets awaiting leather producers who wanted to do business in China and Hong Kong.
1-Export manufacturers in China primarily served American brands.
2- Manufacturers meeting China’s domestic market needs.
These manufacturers consumptions had ensured a rapid increase in leather consumption in China.Of course at the same time a skilled workforce, systematic and predictable manufacturing-quality perspective made the Chinese market an exciting one.
The Hong Kong fair had become a point of intense interest for chain brands and local manufacturers. At this point, the APLF Hong Kong fair had become a strategic fair with intense demand from many countries around the world, bringing together manufacturers with consumers, manufacturers with brand managers, and sourcing departments.
Above, we made a general analysis regarding the importance of Hong Kong in the context of China, as well as how APLF has become a meeting point. Thus, it would be beneficial to refresh our knowledge and make a retrospective for manufacturers who aim to establish a presence in the market and increase their business volume.
Key notes from APLF 2024
Previously, the fairground, which was initially located in a single main hall, had been divided into floors and halls without easy transitions between them. In any case, both the number of participants and visitors were considerable and it was satisfy to exhibitors.
The first and most prominent challenges facing companies were visitors’ lack of English proficiency, some visitors’ tendency to take photos with the intention of copying products, and excessive demands for samples.
Among the less common but exciting points was the resurgence of the Chinese market after many years, a noticeable interest in different product categories, visitors finding ways to communicate effectively, and the establishment of communication points through applications like WeChat.
For firms aiming to succeed in China, being in an innovative and interactive working period will be effective. The quality of raw materials used by tanneries in China is at a standard level that cannot be overlooked. In this regard, progress in the Chinese market through high-price competition in flat and heavy covered product groups is not a strategy that requires manufacturers’ pursuit. Instead, opting for innovative product groups tailored to main production, such as different finishes, textures, and unconventional lightweight leathers and waxy finishes, will raise awareness in the market and elevate your brand among sought-after companies.
To manage all these processes more efficiently collaborating with a partner or agent in China will be a leading role in reaping the rewards of your efforts.
Certainly, exporting is a continuous process chain. While exporting to China may not be easy, it’s a market where you may feel less pressure on prices. In this regard, building a customer base is crucial. This customer base will not only allow you to connect with American manufacturers but also create atmosphere for unexpected opportunities to arise
If summarizing the points mentioned above:
- Initiate the process of partnering with an agent in China
- Create a fashion/innovative collection that is suitable for main production rather than standard products
- Ensure interactivity; consider short sample and batch deadlines
Egedamla Leather in APLF Hong Kong 2024
After the pandemic, the more controlled normalization process in China and Hong Kong posed a risk for an international fair organization. For this reason, it was decided that the first fair after the pandemic would be organised in Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Both the APLF Dubai fair in 2022 and the APLF Hong Kong in 2024, where an independent semi-secret jury evaluated participant companies’ collections, and awarded the best fashion collection prizes, excited us as a company.
Such an award will provide a benefit that strengthens your trust relationship with both your suppliers and customers.
- What we talk in the next chapter ?
Innovative marketing tools
