FESPA China 2015, which took place from 21- 23 October in partnership with CSGIA at the Shanghai New International Expo Centre, Shanghai proved to be yet another success for FESPA, with 9,447 unique visitors attending over the three day period. Visitor data showed that nearly 50% of those who attended were the main decision-maker for their business, demonstrating the high calibre of attendee that the event attracts. 

With 357 exhibitors, this year’s event was 14% bigger than the inaugural FESPA China 2013 in Shanghai, with new products and technology across digital, screen and textile wide format printing on show. 10% of attendees returned on multiple days, with significant interest shown by overseas visitors as well as Chinese PSPs. 12% of visitors came from outside mainland China, including Taiwan, Hong Kong, Australia, New Zealand, Russia, Turkey, Korea, India, Japan, Thailand and Malaysia among others, with 81 countries in total represented.

The post show survey highlighted that 54% of respondents in the region are involved in textile printing. This was backed up by the level of interest shown in the ‘Opportunity and New Dream’ forum and textile-focused conference sessions which took place on 22 October in both Chinese and English. Visitors attended session to hear from businesses such as Ningbo Shenzhou Knitting Co. Ltd, Southtec Fine Chemical and Watts Polyurethane.

Highlighting opportunities for expansion and diversification as key to business success is high on FESPA’s agenda, and Ole Solskin, World Wrap Masters Judge held popular demonstrations on the potential of vehicle wrap as a lucrative new opportunity for PSPs in this region. In addition, the T-shirt screen printing workshops run by President of Taublieb Consulting and screen print guru, Charlie Taublieb brought in large numbers of visitors wanting to learn the latest techniques and screen print their own T-shirt designs.

Roz McGuinness, FESPA Divisional Director comments: “FESPA China 2015 was our third event in China and second in Shanghai and was once again a vibrant, buzzing exhibition showcasing the latest technologies and solutions, and providing an excellent business platform for local and international companies. The feedback we’ve had so far from exhibitors and visitors alike has been extremely positive, particularly the many opportunities for knowledge sharing. We always endeavour to meet the requirements of today’s printers and inspire them with opportunities for growth and diversification, and are delighted that we have achieved this once again.”