Considered one of the most awaited technology fairs in this part of the world, Garment Technology Expo or GTE as it is popularly known as, is booked to the brink well in advance of the annual event scheduled for mid February. Spread out in a covered area of 17,000 sq. m., the fair will see more than 240 booths displaying over 600 brands in technology ranging from sewing machines to IT solutions for the garment manufacturing industry. “We have had to say no, to many players who waited till the last moment to make bookings. We are very happy with the mix and range of technology providers and products to be displayed, which truly makes GTE one of the most comprehensive technology fairs in the world,” says a satisfied Ricky Sahni, Jt. MD, GTE.
One of the biggest highlights of the fair is the inclusion of many big names from the textile technology segment who are new entrants to the garment segment; ATE and ICC are the two most important. Both these players will be displaying their garment machinery range for the first time at the GTE 2012. “While 70% of the participants are old exhibitors who have over the years continued to show faith in the fair, a whopping 30 per cent are new exhibitors looking to explore growth opportunities in the Indian garment industry,” says Ricky. Among the new exhibitors the organizers are most excited about are the wet processing companies who will be occupying a separate hall to showcase many different washing and finishing options for the first time.
To add value to the fair many companies are planning new product launches. “Though many of the exhibitors have informed us of their intention to launch new machines, many want to keep the new technology under wraps till the event,” says Ricky. He does, however, hint that the digital printing segment will be a surprise package this time with MIMAKI & DCC poised to introduce new machines. One of the biggest strengths of GTE has been the fact that all segments are well represented and visitors are able to see and access many similar technologies. Also companies from Europe, China and India are well represented to suit every budget and need. Further, HCA, IIGM, MAGNUM and MEHALA will be displaying their most comprehensive range.
The shifting of the fair to February is one of the added advantages this time. “We have received appreciation from all, both exhibitors and visitors and with the same we are expecting greater visitation from the south, east and western part of the country,” says Ricky. All efforts have been made to create awareness for the fair both in major export manufacturing hubs and domestic hubs like Gandhi Nagar and Tank Road. Other cities in India, which have seen increased visitation over the years, have also been diligently covered in the promotion activities that include print and electronic media. Visitors from neighbouring countries like Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Pakistan are also expected in increased numbers.
“GTE has earned the reputation of a very professional fair and we always deliver more than we promise and that is why we have confidence in our show. In fact this year on popular demand we are taking the show to Bangalore after two years in July,” concludes Ricky by saying: We live up to our motto “Best Today, Still Better Tomorrow”!
