PRESS RELEASES ARCHIVE

The flooring market is preparing once again to be present in Shanghai. With an exhibition space of 74,750 ㎡(a growth of 62,5%) the trade fair will be the second largest flooring show in the world after its sister show DOMOTEX HANNOVER. For Wood & Laminate flooring DOMOTEX asia / CHINAFLOOR will even be the largest show in the world to source these popular types of flooring.

UFI, the association for exhibition organizers, has recognized the international prestige of the show and provided the show with the “official UFI approved” status.

With the astonishing growth of the show and with many new exhibitors the number of visitors is expected by the organizers Deutsche Messe AG and VNU Exhibitions Asia to reach between 30,000 and 35,000.

The 2006 edition has several highlights

FLOORTECH Asia 2006 is a new event within DACF. Suppliers of floor technology, machinery, solutions and materials exhibit their products and interact with manufacturers of wood&laminate flooring. With the booming production and factory setup by Chinese flooring manufacturers FLOORTECH asia will be a business driven part of the show. Exhibitors are leading companies like Homag, Michael Weinig, Interprint and V-hold.

Design Week Shanghai 2006, a summit forum enhance the interaction within the industry. Famous designers as Chien Chung Pei, Benjamin Wood, Paul Andreu and Tony Chi will all attend and discuss hot topics such as architecture design, public architecture, and commercial environment design.

Sports Arena is a special display area for sports flooring such as artificial grass and PVC. The workshop in this activity discusses the rapid expansion of China’s sports fields and gyms. Companies which are in charge of the construction of the 2008 Olympic Games will be matched with leading suppliers in sports flooring.

FLOORdisCOVERING, another special event organized to attract overseas buyers, held in 2005 for the first time. The attendees are foreign buyers who are especially interested in sourcing floor covering from China. The group of international professionals will be given a total overview of the Chinese flooring market during the 5-day program, including seminar, show and factory visits.

FEBRUARY16 - 20, the world’s woodworking Industry will be tuned in on India at garden city Bangalore as the fourth Edition of the Asian region’s signature event on woodworking machinery, tools, fittings, accessories & raw materials, INDIAWOOD 2006 will play host to the woodworking fraternity from around the world.

With over 18000 sq Mtrs of Exhibition space Indiawood 2006 will become the single largest sourcing ground for woodworking technologies for the “ASIAN WOODWORKING” community outside of “LIGNA”.

A trade fair on any sector turns the curve and reaches a higher plane when it starts catering to audiences beyond the home market. INDIAWOOD had a modest begging in 99’ with the objective of providing the INDIAN WOODWORKING INDUSTRY an educative and beneficial platform.  As the Indian economy grew, it also opened up opportunities for the woodworking industry in its wake.

INDIAWOOD 2002 & 2004 provided ample scope for the Indian woodworking industry to benefit from the burgeoning processed furniture market.   The potential in the market has attracted machinery manufacturers and associated industries from ITALY, GERMANY, SPAIN, MALAYSIA, CHINA, TAIWAN, UK, USA, AUSTRALIA, TURKEY and many other parts of the world.   The increase in the profiles of the exhibitors has been nicely complemented with a natural proportionate increase in visitors from outside India’s borders.

Indiawood has played the role of a catalyst in the transition of India’s woodworking industry, more importantly the platform has also provided scope for the “INDIAN WOODWORKING MACHINERY MANUFACTURER” to cater to this boom.

Indiawood 2006 at this point in time has over 300 exhibitors and is expected to attract members of large Furniture manufacturing associations from important furniture manufacturing belts such as Malaysia, Singapore and the rest of the South Asian and South East Asian region.

With participation from reputed machinery companies from countries across the globe such as Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, China, Czech Republic, Denmark, Germany, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Philippines, Poland, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Sri Lanka, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand, The Netherlands, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom and companies dealing in raw materials from UK, USA and New Zealand, INDIAWOOD 2006 is expected to become the new sourcing ground for the entire ASIAN woodworking community.

AMERICAN HARDWOOD COMPANIES TO PARTICIPATE IN INDIAWOOD 2006

As India’s economy grows, the demand for affordable Kitchen/Office/Bedroom and other wood based products continues to grow.   As consumption levels increase, the need for mechanization of wood processing becomes mandatory.  In addition, as the market matures the use of quality raw materials makes a cutting edge difference to successful production. INDIAWOOD since it’s inception in 1999, has been instrumental in gradually creating a successful woodworking Industry, by providing a platform for the woodworkers in the Asian region to meet, interact and more importantly source quality machinery and raw materials.

Recognizing the fact that INDIAWOOD is the only platform in the region that provides growth opportunities, newer exhibitors from hitherto un-represented regions and segments are targeting the Indian market by participating in large numbers. The AMERICAN HARDWOOD EXPORT COUNCIL (AHEC) an association representing the Hardwood Exporters and major hardwood product trade associations from the United States and a Brazilian consortium of timber exporters are exhibiting in Indiawood 2006 through their respective pavilions. Even the Japanese who traditionally looked to cater only to the home and the US market are now looking at making forays into the Indian market through INDIAWOOD.

The success of the TAIWANESE wood working machinery companies in the Indian market post their participation in the 2004 edition has prompted the Taiwan woodworking machinery association and the Taiwan association of Machinery Industries to double their size in the 2006 edition. The Taiwan pavilion now stands at 1386 sq. mtrs.  Even as news of Taiwan’s success in the Indian market is making the rounds, the Koreans, the Chinese and the Malaysians are now vying for a share of the Indian market by participating in the 2006 edition. Indiawood 2006 currently stands at about 15000 sq mtrs and continues to grow in size as more and more exhibitors are evincing interest to participate.

LIGNA+HANNOVER 2005 delights visitors with "firework ideas" two fold increase in Indian participation.

LIGNA⁺ HANNOVER 2005 is definitely the trendsetter event for its sector. The premier international trade fair for the forestry and wood industries attracted around 100,000 visitors, compared with 98,267 in 2003. The visitors from abroad climbed to even greater heights this year, rising to 43,600 (from 40,100 in 2003) accounting for 44 percent of the total. The show’s new concept met with widespread approval, not only by attendees but also by the 1,857 participating exhibitors (up by 136 — or seven percent — over 2003) from 46 different countries (2003: 45).
 

In the words of Stephan Ph. Kuehne, member of the Managing Board of Deutsche Messe AG, Hannover: “As a highly influential international platform, LIGNA⁺ HANNOVER is becoming more and more attractive to exhibitors from all over the world, because they know this is the one place where they can meet their customers from every conceivable market. Product launches, special displays, expert conferences and numerous strategic networking forums also make an appreciable contribution to the show’s appeal. And our sharpened focus on the skilled trades has generated additional buy-in from visitors and exhibitors alike.”

INDIA at Ligna

Indian participation at Ligna 2005 doubled over the previous fair. Nine Indian companies participated at Ligna 2005 in the various categories of the fair as against only four in Ligna 2003. Allied Resins & Chemicals, Jackson Hydraulics, Genset Engineers and Master Handlers are the regular exhibitors from India where as the new companies to join the exhibitor list include Jai Industries, PDA Trade Fairs, Timberhunt, Shapex Engineering and Ambica Hydraulics.

Rise in foreign attendance and concrete investment plans

The main growth in visitor numbers can be attributed to increased participation from the USA and Asia. Visitors from the USA rose by 19 percent while Asian attendance shot up by 50 percent.

A major focus of interest for trade visitors was the furniture industry, followed by the solid wood working sector and the wide ranging themes covered by the “Handwerk, Holz & mehr” (Wood Crafts) showcase.

With 1,857 exhibitors (2003: 1,721) occupying a total display area of 130,041 square meters, (2003: 132,355), LIGNA⁺ HAN­NOVER 2005 exceeded expectations right from the start. The rise in the share of foreign exhibitors to 53 percent, underscores the significance of Hannover as the established international meeting point for the forestry and wood industries. The Top Ten list of countries at LIGNA⁺ was headed by Germany, followed by Italy, Austria, Taiwan and Spain.

Complete supply chain on display

From the tree to the finished product: the products and services on offer at LIGNA⁺ HANNOVER 2005 reflected every facet of the supply chain.

The co-organizer of LIGNA⁺ HANNOVER 2005 — the German Woodworking Machinery Manufacturers’ Association within the German Engineering Federation (VDMA) — was also in a buoyant mood at the close of the show. Dr.-Ing. Werner Neubauer, Managing Director of the association, spoke of a “firework of ideas”. LIGNA⁺ HANNOVER was a trade fair for product and technology launches, with a gigantic 40 percent share of product innovations complemented by a 60 percent share of product upgrades and enhancements.

The materials sector in Hall 17 showcased the latest trends in surface treatment, engineering applications for wood, new developments in wood protection and solutions for timber construction and interior finishing.

Nanotechnology also made its mark on visiting wood specialists. With the new nano-veneers launched at LIGNA⁺ 2005, timber can be specially treated to withstand bacteria and rot for many years. The so-called lotus effect is achieved by the use of a protective film to repel water and dirt.

Forestry industry and forestry technology

Some 160 forestry exhibitors proved that the forestry industry is about more than just timber harvesting. The open-air sites and pavilions beneath the Expo canopy gave a clear indication of where the latest trends are headed. Visitors were treated to demonstrations of GPS navigation in the forest.

Industrial furniture production

Light-colored woods are in demand. The furniture industry has responded flexibly to consumer preferences and given the whole sector a push in the right direction. After experiencing a drop in turnover in the 2003 financial year, last year sales in the furniture industry increased in the first nine months of the year by around 1.5 percent. This breath of fresh air also swept through the six halls of LIGNA⁺ HANNOVER 2005, where some 402 exhibitors (2003: 377) showcased the latest machinery, plant and equipments for industrial furniture production.

Automation technology was the center of attention here, too. The Homag Group demonstrated an innovation center that gave visitors insights into new technologies for everything from compression systems for edging, ink-jet processes for designing and printing edges on work pieces to a fastening system for adhesive-free joining of work pieces using ultrasound technology.

Special presentations and forums

ProHolzfenster initiative

The Pro Holzfenster (IPH) initiative promoting innovative ideas for wooden window frames also drew attention to itself with a 600-square-meter stand. At this group stand in Hall 17, more than 50 window manufacturers and subcontracting firms showcased the latest innovations and advances in wooden frame windows, wood/metal combos and window accessories. The trends were clear: window styles that combine good looks with additional benefits like energy savings, plus new material combinations and burglar-proof systems.

Artistry in Wood

For 44 artists, craftspeople and designers from Germany and abroad, LIGNA⁺ HANNOVER 2005 was transformed into a huge stage for fine wood art objects.

Special energy presentation

Energy from wood and biomass were key themes at this year’s LIGNA⁺ HANNOVER. The special presentation, “Energy from Wood” illustrated the many different ways of utilizing this renewable fuel. Visitors were treated to live demonstrations of how machinery can produce firewood in the form of wood chips or billets and learned how pellets, briquettes or even cereals can fuel heaters.

THE 6^th CHINA INTERNATIONAL FLOOR COVERINGS & CARPET FAIR

Organized by Chinese Flooring Committee (CFC) and CIEC Exhibition Co., Ltd, co-organized by China Carpet Standardization technical Committee, the 6^th China International Floor Coverings & Carpet Fair (Floor Coverings 2005), which is the largest floor coverings show in the North China will be held from September 13-16, 2005 at Beijing China International Exhibition Center.

Since its establishment of 2000, Floor Coverings has attracted exhibitors from China, Germany, France, Portugal, Belgium, Austria, the United States, Spain, Malaysia, Indonesia, Japan and Hong Kong with their new technology, new process and new idea to display on the show. Floor Coverings has become the great annual gathering for floor coverings industry.

Beijing’s successful bid to host the 2008 Olympic Games and China’s accession to WTO will also boost great business opportunities to overseas flooring manufacturers. It is estimated that Floor Coverings 2005 will attract 180 exhibitors and almost 20,000 domestic and overseas trade visitors to see a wide range of flooring products displayed in the 15,000 sqm. fairground. The exhibits include laminated flooring，engineered flooring, hardwood flooring, , bamboo flooring, rubber floor, PVC floor, carpet, accessories and other flooring decoration materials. During the show period, CFC will also hold the annual meeting and seminars.

Floor Coverings aims to become the platform for domestic and overseas exhibitors to display new products, exchange new technology, get to know new customers and explore new business. The organizing committee has all along tried its best to promote the development of the market of floor coverings. We sincerely invite more professionals to participate in the great gathering in the field of floor coverings!

 Important Notice:

Visitor pre-registration is available on our website. (http://floor.ciec-exhibition.com.cn)

Pre-registration will enjoy the following privileges:

  free access to the exclusive VIP Lounge where complimentary drinks & snacks, internet access and resting area will be available

- free admission badge

-free fair catalogue (worth 50 RMB)

-free access to the face-to-face business meeting with the Chinese manufacturers

Indiawood 2004 sets new benchmarks

The 3rd edition of Indiawood has grown to become the largest trade exhibition of the woodworking sector in South Asia. Indiawood 2004 was held from 6 - 10 February 2004 in Bangalore. This mega event was organised by eUMABOIS, the European Federation of Woodworking Machinery Manufacturers and co-organised by PDA Trade Fairs, Bangalore.

A wide variety of products and services catering to the entire woodworking industry including woodworking machinery and tools, fittings, accessories and other products were exhibited at the 5- day exposition.

Indiawood 2004 hosted a number of companies and visitors from India and abroad. 220 exhibitors from 22 countries participated at the event. Country pavilions from Germany, Italy and Spain displayed machinery of high standards. For the first time in India, a delegation of Taiwanese machinery manufacturers participated under the Taiwanese pavilion at Indiawood 2004.

Indiawood has provided a common platform for buyers, sellers and other professionals from the woodworking industry to interact, source, network and keep abreast with technological innovations available in the market. Potential buyers and clients from India, the Middle East, South Asian and Southeast Asian markets visited Indiawood 2004.

The Minister for Trade Negotiations for the Government of New Zealand, Mr. Jim Sutton led a delegation of 28 forestry mission CEO's to participate in Indiawood 2004.

The distinct feature at Indiawood 2004 was the display of working machinery on demonstration for the benefit of the trade visitors. Fully automated working lines produced furniture and other products at the venue. These sophisticated equipment were housed in an exclusively built up air-conditioned superstructure of a mammoth 10000 square meters.

One of the highlights was the distribution of classroom furniture to needy schools at Indiawood 2004. Homag, the German woodworking machinery giant, produced the furniture at the exhibition venue. Mr. Heinz Kopp, the German Consul General presented the furniture to students of these schools at a specially organised ceremony.

Indiawood 2004 introduced a Product Presentation Theatre (PPT) giving interested exhibitors the opportunity to make audiovisual presentations to a core critical audience. The PPT idea was well utilized by various exhibitors and generated good interest among the visitors.

Mr. Pradeep Deviah, the Chairman & CEO of PDA Trade Fairs expressed his optimism on the positive trend shown by the Indian wood working industry at Indiawood 2004.

"Indiawood 2004 has outgrown its predecessor Indiawood 2002 exponentially. Not only have the numbers of exhibitors and visitors increased but there is also an increase in the spaces taken by the older participants to display more products since the previous edition. This indicates that the woodworking industry is on the upturn and out to do hardcore business. Personally from the organiser's point of view, it is encouraging to notice that the level of interest and the faith the industry has in Indiawood." said Mr. Deviah.

The 4th edition of the event, Indiawood 2006 to be held in Bangalore from 16 - 20 February 2006, will provide another unique stage for the woodworking industry to meet. Indiawood 2006 is expected to be larger than its predecessors and present more business opportunities.

PDA Trade Fairs, the co-organisers of Indiawood is a Bangalore based company specialising in organising international industrial trade events in India and overseas. CLEAN 2005, INMEX India 2005, INMEX Malaysia 2006, Indiawood 2006 are among the future trade exhibitions being organised by PDA Trade Fairs.

DOMOTEXASIA/CHINAFLOOR 2004 SHATTERS ALL PREVIOUS RECORDS!

The sixth edition of the largest international trade fair for floor coverings in Asia has again proven that growth of the floor covering industry in Asia, and in China in particular, is booming. The fair, which was held March 24-26 (Shanghai, China), broke all previous records for: attendance (19,000 trade visitors), exhibition area (34,500 square meters), number of exhibitors (542), countries represented amongst exhibitors (30) and diversity of floor covering exhibits including: textile floor coverings, machine made rugs, hand-made rugs, fibers & yarns, resilient (PVC), wood & parquet, bamboo, laminate, stone & tile, applications technology and production machinery.

The success of this edition of the fair has firmly established the fact that DOMOTEXasia/ CHINAFLOOR has now become one of the world's best places to source and sell floor covering materials. In addition to the large group of domestic exhibitors (from China), many international companies (34% of all exhibitors) have chosen DOMOTEXasia/ CHINAFLOOR as their key to tap into the booming Asian market. National pavilions from the following countries added to the truly international flavor of the fair: Germany, Netherlands, Belgium along with representative groups of exhibitors from Europe (European Pavilion) and from the USA.

As the floor covering industry in Asia matures, especially with the influx of new technology and machinery from abroad, industry experts are looking to Asia, and to China specifically, to set new trends in the world flooring market. "Exhibitors of production machinery and related technology represent a significant portion of our exhibitors and this demographic is indicative of future trends and current demands in the Asian market," says Adam Margesson, International Project Director for DOMOTEXasia/ CHINAFLOOR.

The addition of a specialized stone and tile section to the fair this year brought a whole new dimension to the diversity of exhibits on display. At just over 5,750 square meters, this subsection of the fair (Stone China 2004) added to the vast array of choices visitors had in terms of sourcing materials relevant to their specific needs. Visitors themselves were a diverse group at the fair with over 30 countries represented. Taken together with the many Asian-based exporters and agents for international companies abroad, this select group of visitors (24% of all visitors) is further evidence that there is great international interest in the Asia's floor covering market.

DOMOTEXasia/CHINAFLOOR 2004: A REPORT


POSITIVE GROWTH: (35,000sqm for 2004)

As is evidenced by the expansion of the exhibition from two halls last edition to three halls this edition, the show has seen very positive growth over the past year. The expansion of DOMOTEXasia/CHINAFLOOR (DACF) has been driven by many factors, most notably the fact that China is fast becoming the main hub in the Asia Pacific region at which to source affordable floor covering materials of high quality. China itself has now become a major player on the world flooring market, due in large part to the competitive production cost, but also because local producers have made great improvements in the quality of domestically produced floor covering materials.

STONE CHINA 2004:

DOMOTEXasia/CHINAFLOOR is constantly evolving and reflecting the latest trends in the market. This year, a new "Specialized Stone & Tile Section" has been incorporated into the show. The Shanghai Stone Trade Association, recognizing the importance of DACF in the flooring industry, has committed its full support to the show. The association has backed the development of this new addition to Hall 3 and its members are excited about the opportunity of displaying top quality Chinese stone products to the world market.

DACF AWARDS CEREMONY 2004:

This year, for the first time in the six year history of the show, a specialized gala evening will take place the night before the show opens. The main event of the evening will be an awards ceremony recognizing the top ten producers of wood flooring and the top ten producers of carpet flooring in China. The China National Forestry Industry Association together with the China Carpet Industrial Association are sponsoring the awards gala.

BELGIAN TRADE DELEGATION:

This year, for the first time, DOMOTEXasia/CHINAFLOOR will welcome a Belgian trade delegation as part of the Belgian Pavilion at DACF. Headed by the Mayor of Kortrijk, the Honorable Stefaan De Clerk, the delegation will feature several prominent business and political leaders from a region, West Flanders, which has supported DACF for the past three editions with its Belgian Pavilion. The Mayor will officially open the show and his presence will highlight Belgium's prominent carpet producing region.

HAND MADE RUGS:

DOMOTEXasia/CHINAFLOR is happy to announce that the response from exhibitors of hand made rugs has been very strong. This strong Hand-Made Rug participation this year is indicative of a growing trend in China, that being a booming market and the development of quality domestically produced Hand-Made Rugs. The organizers are confident that this trend will continue and are already looking ahead to 2005 as the possibility of a very large expansion amongst Hand-Made exhibitors becomes a reality.

DUTCH PAVILION:

This year, for the first time, DOMOTEXasia/CHINAFLOOR will host a new national pavilion, the Dutch Pavilion. Thanks in large part to the support of VNTF / Holland Carpets and the Netherlands Foreign Trade Agency, the Dutch Pavilion will be making a strong presence at this year's show and will be joining the list of other pavilions represented (Belgian, German, European & American).

CONTRACT+DESIGN.ASIA 2004 (MARCH 23-24):

Following the smashing success of last year's event, C+D is back again. Designers and industry insiders from all over the world will meet this year in Shanghai to discuss the latest trends and visions for China's interior design industry. The event is being backed by a variety of magazines in China including: World Architecture, Time Architecture, Interior Design + Construction, Architecture & Design & China Interior. Registration has been extremely strong to date and by all estimates, participation will exceed last year's event.


For further information please contact at chinafloor@online.sh.cn or +(86 21) 6247 7668 ext. 804

DOMOTEX Asia/CHINAFLOOR 2004 – Asia’s Pre-eminent Trade Fair for Floor Coverings

DOMOTEX Asia/ CHINAFLOOR, Asia’s pre-eminent trade fair for floor coverings will again open its doors in Shanghai from 24 to 26 March 2004. Seen the registrations already received, there is no doubt that the next edition of the show will meet the expectations premised by the organizers. The exhibition area will reach some 30,000 sqm, hosting the entire range of floor covering products, raw material, services and related technology, attracting some 15,000 visitors from all over the world. The sixth edition of the show will for sure host again a European, a German, a Belgian and a US pavilion. Different other countries are currently reviewing the possibility to set-up their own group stand. Special words of thank, for their commitment to the show, go to the industry associations and the companies that have already registered.

DOMOTEX Asia / CHINAFLOOR 2004 is glad to announce that it will this year be expanded to host a specialized tiles and stones section and a stronger representation of handmade carpets. Next to the traditional exhibitors of textile, wood and resilient flooring and the related raw materials and technology, also suppliers of stones, tiles and handmade carpets have found their way to the trend-setting exhibition in the floor covering market in China. The organizers strongly cooperate with the respective prominent industry associations and will make enormous promotional efforts to guarantee the success of these sections on the show.

Next to retailers, agents, wholesalers and manufacturers, commercial users like designers, architects and facility managers are a very important target group of the exhibitors at DOMOTEX Asia / CHINAFLOOR. Therefore the show will again feature several onsite activities to attract the attention of these exquisite visitors. The main satellite event will be the re-launch of Contract+Design.asia. Designers and architects from all over the world will meet for the second time their colleagues to discuss about China’s interior industry. Next to the lectures and open discussions, they will have the chance to participate at workshops, to visit the show case area at the exhibition ground of DOMOTEX Asia / CHINAFLOOR 2004 and to meet with the floor covering suppliers exhibiting at the show.

If you have not booked your exhibition space yet, get in touch with the organizers! For all information regarding the show visit the new website www.chinafloor.org

INDIAWOOD – 2004

Larger In Size, Richer in Display Categories 

Professionals from the wood working industry, both buyers and sellers alike, can look forward to a Magnum - opus unparalleled in size in the history of woodworking Expositions in India.

Reports available from the organizers indicate, INDIAWOOD 2004 is currently a whopping 10,000 sqm. exhibition, more than double the size of the 2002 edition, with country pavilions from Germany, Italy, Taiwan etc. INDIAWOOD 2004, Indiawood’s third edition is slated to become the largest ever trade fair till date in India for the wood working industry. Apart from Machinery, INDIAWOOD 2004 will also display Tools, Fittings, and Accessories, Raw materials etc., required for woodworking.

Mr. Pradeep Deviah, Chairman & C.E.O, PDA Trade Fairs, Co - Organizers of the fair, says, “The Wood Working Industry in India is emerging as an important segment in the country’s growth.  This growth has been fuelled because of the huge demand for furniture by the growing BPO segment as well the middle-class Indian whose increased Disposable income is going into Dwelling units and in extension Furniture.   There is a noticeable shift towards mechanized mass production and up gradation of technology to meet this growing demand for Wood based furniture and other articles.”  One of the prime objectives of INDIAWOOD, a biennial event organized by EUMABOIS and Co., is to facilitate this shift to mechanization of woodworking units in India to cater to the boom in the wood and panel based products.

INDEX/INTER-FURN 2003 - A PERFECT PLATFORM FOR PLAYERS IN FURNITURE INDUSTRY

Index International furniture fair organized by Universal Expositions Ltd. will be held at MMRDA Exhibition grounds, Bandra - Kurla complex in Mumbai, India from 24 to 28 September 2003. Spread in an area of over 16,000 square metres, Index 2003 is expected to have more than 100 participants from all over India and abroad. 

Universal Expositions Ltd. has been organizing trade fairs in India for last 14 years and Index furniture fairs have proved to be a perfect platform for communications and interaction between the players at various levels in the Indian and International furniture Industry.

Italian Trade Commissioner in India Mr. Vittorio Mecozzi will be inaugurating the fair on 24 September at 11.00 am. 

This furniture fair would bring together the trade and industry segment such as trade buyers, importers & exporters, wholesale distributors, retail chains, manufacturers and other related industry participants.  

All those who deal in furniture and associated products/ intermediaries besides, mass merchandisers from all over India, Europe, the Southeast Asian region and the Arabian Gulf will participate in this fair. The important specifier segment of professionals influencing large purchase decisions and hence trends, such as architects, builders and interior designers, along with institutional buyers such as corporates, hotel and hospitality projects will be visiting the fair. 

 Participation by FEDERLEGNO ARREDO, Milan, with 10 companies showcasing Italian furniture and lighting will be the special feature of Index 2003 International Furniture Fair. 

FDEREEGNO ARREDO is the Federation of All the Furniture Associations in Italy and it is the one of the largest bodies representing furniture industry internationally. For the first time such large variety and array of Italian Furniture will be displayed at the fair in India. 

The products on display at this exhibition would be – 

• Residential furniture such as living room, bedroom, dining, children’s, multi- material, moulded/ carved, space saving and system furniture.

·        Kitchens- systems and accessories including hoods hobs etc. 

• Office furniture – office systems and seating
• Lighting: lamps, office lighting systems, speciality lights, fibre optics

• Home and design accessories including carpets linen, artifacts, fabric and upholstery material.

Along with the Furniture fair, Inter-furn, an international fair on furniture intermediates and hardware will also kick off simultaneously at the same venue. This fair will showcase furniture hardware, intermediates/ raw material, semi finished parts and products, portable machines, chemical intermediates, wood working machinery and products for finishing/ treating surfaces.

The highlight of this fair will be participation of the Malaysian Timber Council (MTC). Established to promote the interest of the Malaysian timber industry, it represents a broad gamut of wood based manufacturers including lumber, panel-products, mouldings, builders, carpentry and joinery and furniture. Those working directly with the manufacturers are bound to benefit immensely by the participation of MTC.

Trade fair services like buyer- seller meets, multilingual communications support, visitor facilitations, logistics assistance, hospitality package and organizing factory visits have been offered by Universal Expositions.

Over the years Index Trade Fairs have been successful in putting India on the Global Trade Fair map.

WoodmacAsia2003 International Conference
Helping the industry gain a competitive edge

The WoodmacAsia2003 International Conference, to be held alongside the WoodmacAsia2003/FurniTekAsia2003, will gather an illustrious list of industry experts providing delegates with a handle on crucial issues facing today’s woodworking industry. The conference takes place from 9-10 September at the Singapore Expo.

Held once every two years, the event has gained recognition among the woodworking and furniture making community as a top notch conference with opportunities to network, tap into the expertise of industry leaders and learn how to gain competitive advantage in an increasingly turbulent global economy.

The conference will include the following sessions:

• Country Focus: Indonesia

Looking to further your stake in Indonesia’s vibrant and fast growing forestry industry? Tap on the expertise of the country’s industry veterans at the Country Focus: Indonesia session. The session is chaired by Mr. Riza Suarga, Chief Executive, Indonesia Forestry Society. Mr. Suarga will also be speaking on ‘The activities of ITTO to support the improvement of industrial efficiency in Indonesia.’ Other topics delegates can look forward to include current and emerging trends of the Indonesian industry, pricing trends for timber and wood and keeping the country’s plywood industry a sustainable business.

• Eco-manufacturing, Waste Reduction and Recycling of Wood Waste

As it become more difficult to obtain good quality hardwood, the woodworking and furniture making industry is looking towards alternative wood supplies. What are the alternatives available? What are the pros and cons, implications on processing and production for each alternative? A panel discussion will debate and answer these questions. Following that, Dr. Jalaluddin Harun, Head of Bio-Engineering Lab for the Institute of Advanced Technology, Universiti Putra Malaysia, will talk about the challenges in utilizing non-conventional fiber resources in Malaysia.

• Outsourcing in Furniture Manufacturing

Learn how to invest in your core competence and outsource less efficient components in the manufacturing process in this session. Mr. Ong Kim Chuan, Director of Haleywood Industries will make a presentation on the benefits and problems with outsourcing as well as help delegates make the best of existing equipment and evaluate new technology for manufacturing furniture components.

• Marketing Wood Products and Designs

The day’s final session will kick off with presentations on the impact of Chinese demand in the regional wood panels markets by Mr. Marcel Vroege, Associate Principal of Jaakko Poyry Consulting. Find out more about the New Zealand pine and how it has captured market share with its versatility while furniture designers will enjoy the presentation on the trends and issues affecting the industry today.

The WoodmacAsia2003/FurniTekAsia2003 exhibition will take place from 9-12 September, 2003 at the Singapore Expo. For more information on the conference or the exhibition, please visit www.woodmacasia.com

WoodmacAsia2003 to take place amidst renewed business confidence

Visitors can expect to see an exciting array of products and services for the regional woodworking and furniture manufacturing industry

With regional travel and business confidence in the region picking up, exhibitors and visitors are gearing up WoodmacAsia2003/FurniTekAsia2003 – an international woodworking and furniture manufacturing trade exhibition and conference which returns on 9-12 September to the Singapore Expo.

"As Singapore is off the list of SARS-affected countries, we are confident that WoodmacAsia2003 will continue to be an excellent industry platform for us to meet up with the regional woodworking industry to network and do business," says Mr. Henning Gloede, Managing Director of Siempelkamp, which offers innovative solutions for the woodworking industry.

WoodmacAsia focuses on the wood and panel manufacturing machinery while FurniTekAsia is a showcase for furniture-making components, adhesives, fittings, paints and related products.

"As the situation in Asia stabilised, we have seen an increase in enquiries from overseas visitors for WoodmacAsia2003. We believe that the event will thrive on this renewed business confidence. This will be an exciting show for participants as business opportunities abound due to the regional pent up demand caused by the uncertainties in the past few months," said Ms. Vicki Lim, project director for machinery events at organiser Singapore Exhibition Services.

Wide Ranging Exhibits and Applications
From dryers, adhesive, cutting tools, extensive panel-making machinery to laminating paper and door-closers, the manufacturers at WoodmacAsia2003/FurniTekAsia2003 will be displaying their latest and most innovative products.

Germany - WoodmacAsia2003’s Partner Country will be sending an extensive list of participants to the show. Exciting products and services from German exhibitors include the following:

 Grenzebach will showcase veneer dryers which employ a special technology to prevent resin deposit in the drying chamber. The deposit is caused when cold air enters the chamber and the evaporated resin condenses. Grenzebach's dryers seal of the ends with special brushes to prevent the cold air from entering thus preventing the problem.

 Major exhibitor Dieffenbacher will showcase its complete panel production lines including dryer, spreading and gluing systems, press systems storing and handling systems. These machines are used to manufacture particleboard, MDF, OSB and plywood and other wood based panels.

 Henkel Dorus will present its revolutionary non hazardous polyurethane hotmelts adhesive – the MicroEmission (ME) purmelt. Most of the industry is currently utilizing PUR hotmelts in profile wrapping, edgebanding or flat lamination as these adhesives reliably bond advanced and difficult materials. However, these hotmelts are classified hazardous and harmful to health. Henkel's researchers have therefore developed the ME purmelt that delivers the same performance while releasing significantly less monomer isocyanate (the main toxic element found in purmelt) than conventional hotmelts.

 Furniture makers will be intrigued by Mepla-Alfit's "soft-close" drawer system - the DWD-Dynamic-XP. Drawers can be closed silently and softly with this latest hydraulic technology.

 Treffert is demonstrating the concept of directly printing any desired wood grain/plank structure on lower grade face veneer. This printing ink application can be an integrated part of a standard finishing process. This exhibitor will also be introducing High Performance Coating for the panel industry as well as the UV Curable Powder Coating.

Besides the German contingent, exhibitors from Austria, China, Taiwan, Finland, Japan and the USA will also be showcasing their best to regional visitors. Visitors to the event will also be intrigued with the following:

 Making its Asian debut is Raute’s Smart-Peel Concept which provides maximizes raw materials regardless of the species of wood species or its block diameter. The Smart-Peel Concept is an optimal peeling solution which incorporates optimal peeling geometry (OPG), digital knife carriage feed and the most rigid and accurate gap adjustment method yet designed.

 Besides their best-selling invisible hinge, Soss Asia will also be featuring the Door Spring Closer. With the Door Spring Closer, the hinge face and links can be seen only when the door is open. Its closure rate is adjustable after installation and does not require removal of the spring closer.

 Other not to be missed products include Japanese manufacturer Kikugawa’s ZX-60 Dry Abrasive Cleaning System that automatically and quickly cleans used abrasive belt at low cost.

 APP Timber from Malaysia will showcase their supply of Radiata pine, Scandinavian pine/spruce as well as many other temperate species from Europe and Asia.

 Austria’s Wintersteiger’s Thincutting Frame and Circular saws - used to cut wooden blocks into glueable lamellas – can be employed to produce a wide range of applications such as parquet flooring, pencils, musical instruments, veneers, furniture and multilayer boards.

 Italian experts will be showcasing their latest technology at WoodmacAsia2003. These include M.A. Brevetti’s mitre cut and joining machine and Angelo Cremona’s rotary peelers, trimming and slicing machines.

Over 40 countries/regions are expected to participate at this event - a definite sign of confidence in Singapore as a meeting place and business gateway to rest of Asia.

GAME, SET & MATCH - INDIAWOOD-2004

SOLD!!!! Indiawood the most definitive meeting ground for Professionals from the woodworking industry for the Indian region is fully booked for the 2004 edition.

Mr.Pradeep Deviah, Chairman of PDA trade fairs, says, "Indiawood has grown from strength to strength since it's inception and has been unanimously accepted by the exhibitors & the visitors, as the region's most established international woodworking trade show. To provide Exhibitors & Visitors of Indiawood, a much larger & comprehensive interactive platform, we planned on making the 2004 edition richer in size & content, having announced 4 hangars with this objective, we are pleased to see that the industry has also responded positively by booking out all the 4 hangars almost 8 months prior to the show. Overwhelmed & heartened by this support from the industry, we are now very happy to announce a 5th hangar".

The quest to make the show richer in content seems to be paying off also, the 2004 show is expected to feature pavilions from Italy, Germany, Taiwan, Spain, France and Czech Republic. These pavilions will showcase a wide range of woodworking machinery, tools fittings, Accessories etc.

Bangalore, one of the fastest growing Metros in the world & also known as the silicon valley of India, will again play host to Indiawood-2004 from the 6th to the 10th of February-2004.

According to sources at "PDA Trade Fairs", if the numbers of enquiries are anything to go by, then the 5th hangar will also be sold out very shortly.

WoodmacAsia2003: Germany to be First Partner Country

WoodmacAsia2003 announced that Germany is the Partner Country for the event. This collaboration with an overseas government – a first for WoodmacAsia – was initiated by International Enterprise Singapore. The programme aims to acknowledge the continued support of the Partner Country towards the event and further cement trading ties between Singapore and the Partner Country.

Long recognised as the region's most established and international woodworking and furniture manufacturing trade exhibition and conference, WoodmacAsia2003 will return on 9-12 September at the Singapore Expo. WoodmacAsia plans to enlist other Partner Countries for future runs of the event which takes place every two years.

As one the world’s leading supplier of woodworking and furniture machinery, German manufacturers are recognised technology leaders in sawmill systems, wood processing and furniture production equipment. In 2002, Germany exported 1.8 billion euros (US$2 billion) of woodworking machines of which 16% were bound for Asia Pacific. With its extensive natural wood supplies, Germany is also one of the leading suppliers of high quality wood products to the global furniture market.

Ms Vicki Lim, Project Director of Machinery Events with organiser Singapore Exhibition Services said, “Among all the major international suppliers of woodworking and furniture machinery, Germany has been the most active and supportive since the inaugural WoodmacAsia in 1983. German equipment, technology and innovative marketing have always been at the forefront of technology transfer in Asia. Thus they were a natural choice as our first partner country.” At WoodmacAsia2003, Germany will benefit from a series of exciting publicity opportunities and networking activities specially designed for its Partner Country.

“We are glad to deepen the trading relationship between the two countries through this programme and look forward to many fruitful years of working closely, both in the region and internationally,” said Mr Wong Kok Siew, Chairman of International Enterprise Singapore (IE Singapore).
As Southeast Asia’s most established and international woodworking and furniture manufacturing exhibition, WoodmacAsia2003 and FurniTekAsia2003 expect to see an impressive congregation of exhibiting companies from over 40 countries in Singapore, displaying a wide of range of machinery, supplies and accessories for woodworking and furniture production.
About Singapore Exhibition Services

Incorporated in 1975, Singapore Exhibition Services (SES) is Asia’s leading trade fair organiser, with a wide portfolio of exhibitions and conferences held in Singapore.
One of the pioneers in this vibrant and growing industry, the events organised by SES cover a myriad of sectors including telecommunications, IT and broadcasting, food and hospitality, environmental and water management technology, franchising, retail, machine tools, woodworking and furniture making machinery, chemical engineering, instrumentation and analytical laboratory technology, manufacturing, and oil & gas and petrochemicals. SES events consistently attract a high level of overseas participation, with foreign exhibitors accounting for more than 70% of the show floor.

INDEX INTERFURN 2003- INDIA'S FIRST SPECIALISED TRADE FAIR IN MUMBAI

Universal Expositions Ltd., the organizers of INDEX INTERNATIONAL FURNITURE FAIR, India's largest & only focused trade fair on furniture, are pleased to introduced INDEX INTER-FURN - India's first specialised International Trade Fair on the furniture intermediates & hardware industry to be held from 24th-28th September 2003 at Bandra - Kurla Complex, Bandra, the most important business hub in India, MUMBAI.

INDEX INTER-FURN will be held concurrently with the INDEX INTERNATIONAL FURNITURE FAIR during the auspicious pre-diwali season, and together will represent the entire furniture industry.

The furniture industry has grown tremendously in the past few years, which has brought into focus the furniture hardware and intermediates industry, which is presently worth over 500 million USD in terms of imports alone. The industry would include all the materials and components required in the making of furniture i.e., Furniture fittings, Ply, Timber, MDF, Particle Boards, Paints machine tools, Carpentry tools, woodworking machinery, to name a few.

INDEX INTER-FURN would be the forum for direct contact between the manufacturers of components and intermediates for the furniture industry and their target buyers i.e., furniture manufacturers, architects, interior designers, corporate & serious trade visitors - dealers, manufacturers, wholesalers, importers and exporters of related products from all over India, the South-East Asian region and Arabian Gulf.

INDEX INTER-FURN is strongly supported by reputed associations of the industry i.e., North India Plywood Manufacturers Associations (NIPMA), Plywood Welfare Associations (PWA), Institute of Wood Science & Technology (IIWST), Indian Plywood Industries Research and Training Institute (IPIRTI).

INDEX TRADE FAIRS have an established reputation and strong equity with the trade and professional segments, with very large numbers of top architects, project managers and designers being regular visitors at the fairs. In addition, the name INDEX attracts a "Most-desirable" visitor profile which is further enhanced through a wide spread advertising campaign which includes the Press, television, hoardings, trade publications, portals & the most important, invitation cards to the targeted visitors.

DOMOTEX asia/CHINAFLOOR 2003
The largest trade fair for floor coverings in Asia!

Fifth edition of DOMOTEX asia/CHINAFLOOR beats all records!!

DOMOTEX asia/CHINAFLOOR was held from 25 till 27th of March 2003 in the Shanghai New International Expo Center, Shanghai. The fifth anniversary of the world-known show was a tremendous success that has beaten all records of the previous years in terms of exhibition space, amount of exhibitors and number of visitors. The exhibition confirmed again its undisputed status as being the largest trade fair for floor coverings in Asia!

The venue hosted 350 world leaders from 30 different countries. Next to the individual local and international exhibitors, DOMOTEX asia/CHINAFLOOR 2003 was again supported by national pavilions from Belgium, Germany, Japan and US and featured for the first time a European pavilion as well.

The exhibitors displayed their latest and best products on a surface of 23,000sqm, spread over 2 halls. To improve visitors' guidance a clear distinction in products was made. Hall 1 was dedicated to carpets, rugs and related machinery while hall 2 was concentrated on hardwood, laminate, resilient flooring and supporting machinery. Remarkable was the great attention the exhibitors paid to their booths. Some real state of the art designs were the ideal surrounding for the determined business negotiations that were taking place.

DOMOTEX asia/CHINAFLOOR 2003 welcomed 13400 trade visitors which cuts all records of previous editions. Next to the local visitors, international visitors coming from Asia, Europe, North and South America, attended the show. The huge success of this year's edition proves that despite the political, economic and social situation business goes on and that DOMOTEX asia/CHINAFLOOR is an indispensable trading platform in Asians flooring business.

For the first time in the history of DOMOTEX asia/CHINAFLOOR, some important satellite events were organized. CONTRACT+DESIGN Asia 2003 was the first forum of its kind in Shanghai. Overseas designers and architects showed and comment their newest ideas and designs to an enthusiastic audience of more than 500 of their Chinese colleagues. After the lectures, East met West during an open discussion about the current and future design trends and finally the audience visited a special interior design showcase integrated in DOMOTEX asia/CHINAFLOOR 2003. This visit provided to the exhibitors of the fair the opportunity to find out about the necessities of Asian designers in terms of floor covering products.

Next to the traditional technical seminars that took again place during DOMOTEX asia/CHINAFLOOR, Clean Asia Magazine organized a two-day seminar on floor cleaning and maintenance. During the seminar industry experts shared their knowledge on cleaning and maintaining textile and hard floors with an audience of local housekeeping managers of hotels, residential-, office and public buildings and contractors in the cleaning industry.

Most of the exhibitors stated to participate again next year and first bookings for 2004 were already made, confirming the success-story of DOMOTEX asia/CHINAFLOOR will go on. The show has proven to be an event that cannot be missed in the agenda of important flooring business people! The organizers have full confidence in the future growth and development of the show and are looking forward to meeting you next year. DOMOTEX asia/CHINAFLOOR 2004 will take place from 24th till 26th of March in the Shanghai New International Exhibition Center, Shanghai. 

Asian woodworking industry gears up for WoodmacAsia2003

More than 700 companies from over 40 countries are expected to congregate in Singapore for Southeast Asia’s most established and international woodworking and furniture manufacturing exhibition, WoodmacAsia2003 and FurniTekAsia2003. Returning from 9 - 12 September 2003 at the Singapore Expo, the Asian woodworking industry is gearing up for the show. Displaying a wide of range of machinery, supplies and accessories for woodworking and furniture production, WoodmacAsia’s visitors have already started planning their trips to Singapore. WoodmacAsia is an event which traditionally attracts a strong base of overseas buyers and this trend looks set to continue.

Garnering support from many industry organisations, WoodmacAsia/FurniTekAsia2003 is endorsed by the Singapore Furniture Industries Council; Indonesian Furniture Industry & Handicraft Association; Federation of Johore Furniture Manufacturers and Traders Association; Chamber of Furniture Industries of the Philippines; China National Forest Products Industry Association; Korea Federation of Furniture Industry Cooperatives and The Sawmills Association, Thailand.

Looking forward to WoodmacAsia2003, Mr Tan Kwee Chai, Chairman, Batu Pahat Furniture Association, Malaysia, says, “We were very impressed with the last WoodmacAsia and our members are eagerly anticipating the next show in September. Not only did we learn a lot about the new machines available and latest technological advancements, the range of exhibits was impressive and we will definitely be on the lookout for potential purchases when we visit WoodmacAsia2003.”

Echoing his sentiment, Mr Sae Tanangga Karim, Executive Director of the Indonesian Furniture Industry & Handicraft Association (ASMINDO) says, “WoodmacAsia is a show we never miss because instead of going all the way to visit European shows, the major suppliers are present at the event, saving us a lot of travel time and expense.”

He adds, “WoodmacAsia in Singapore serves as a focal point for international manufacturers – especially from Europe to meet and network with the Southeast Asian industry. With Indonesia being one of the leading furniture exporting countries in Asia, I am confident that many of our members will make the trip to take in what WoodmacAsia2003 has to offer.”

Southeast Asia a Viable Market
Southeast Asia is a viable market, according to Singapore’s Deputy Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong. At the recent annual World Economic Forum in January 2003, he said that “the economic fundamentals of Southeast Asia remain positive, especially compared to other emerging economies. It has a sizeable market of 500 million people, a skilful and educated workforce and good infrastructure.”

A recent 2002/2003 survey by CSIL Milano on the furniture sector in South East Asia (Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand), Korea and Taiwan shows that the seven countries have a combined furniture production of about US$ 12 billion, with Korea and Taiwan being the largest furniture markets and the main furniture consumers in the area.

And in a move to stop smuggling of wooden products, the Indonesian government has implemented a new regulation which requires all exporters of wooden products to register themselves. All wooden product exporters will now have to register with their respective associations, which then inform a newly formed body - Indonesian Forestry Industry Revitalisation Body (BRIK). By allowing exports to be carried out only by registered exporters, the Indonesian government, through BRIK, expects to be able to monitor the use of raw materials, and better control the timber flow from the country’s rapidly damaged forests, and boost the competitiveness of Indonesian furniture products.

Closer to home, the Malaysian furniture sector continued to chart steady growth of 10.2% in the third quarter of last year. According to a Global Wood Trade Network report in January 2003, exports of 85% of Malaysia’s furniture products reined in almost RM5 billion worth of earnings.

WoodmacAsia2003 International Conference
Expect a more focused programme as this year’s event highlights the Indonesian woodworking industry. The conference will gather an expert panel of speakers specially invited to provide valuable insights into the latest developments in wood-based panels, wood-based designs & creations and technology & applications amongst other current industry concerns.

Asia will be highlighted from a domestic as well as international perspective to gain a clear understanding of competitiveness, market potential, opportunities, risk and the sustainability of the region’s potential in the global woodworking marketplace

SFIC DRAWS RECORD EXHIBITORS WITH BOLD "FIRSTS" AT IFFS '03

The International Furniture Fair Singapore 2003, held in conjunction with the 20TH ASEAN Furniture Fair (IFFS/AFS 2003), is poised to record several "firsts" in its 20-year history. Held at the Singapore Expo from 1 - 5 March, IFFS/AFS 2003 will occupy for the first time all six halls of the Singapore Expo, covering a total floor area of about 55,000 square metres. In comparison, IFFS/AFS 2003 grew by 22 percent compared to IFFS/AFS 2002, which only took up about five of the six halls at the Singapore Expo, covering a total floor area of 45,000 square metres. The total number of exhibiting companies this year will exceed 600 companies. 

Furniture stalwarts that will return to the show include members of ASMINDO, Decoro, Eurocane, Globimport, Gosh Leather, HTL, Koda Ltd, Lifestyle Holdings, Linkwise Furniture, Melandas Casa Mobili, Sam's International, Texicote and Yin Tong Furniture. Vietnamese companies have increased their floor space by more than five times. Turkey is another country with a growing presence at the show, with Istikbal and Cilek increasing their presence by two and five times respectively. With its increased size, IFFS/AFS 2003 is easily recognised for its extensive collection of quality exhibitors - making it a world-class exhibition event that is peerless in Asia. It is also a "first" for exhibitors from Myanmar and Portugal, who will be recording their inaugural participation at the show this year. In total, there will be exhibitors from 29 countries displaying their world-class furniture products, making the show a truly one-stop platform for buyers sourcing furniture products from all over the world. For the first time, one entire hall at the Singapore Expo will be dedicated to exhibit Indonesian products, making it the largest Indonesian furniture showcase outside of Indonesia. Similarly, for the first time, exhibitors from China and Hong Kong will be taking up one entire hall at the Singapore Expo, signalling the arrival of Chinese furniture manufacturers in the world furniture market.

Singapore Furniture Industries Council (SFIC), the organiser for the show, chalked up another innovative "first" when they implemented a visa application service, which proved immensely popular amongst visitors from countries such as Russia, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, India, Sudan and Egypt, India, and China, who require entry visas to visit Singapore. With this service, the number of visitors expected from the Middle East is expected to double in number, compared to IFFS/AFS 2002. 

"Now that visitors essentially need only a signed letter of introduction from companies for their visa applications, visitor and exhibitor participation at trade exhibitions will be greatly enhanced. SFIC is taking the initiative to value-add by assisting to prepare the necessary travel documents for visitors and exhibitors for submission to the relevant authorities", said Mr James Koh, President of SFIC.

The enhanced business matching service programme for buyers and exhibitors is also set to be another crowd puller. A complimentary service provided to exhibitors and potential buyers, the programme aims to facilitate trade by matching buyers with specific areas of interest with past and new exhibitors for IFFS/AFS 2003 that meet their criteria. For a special group of buyers identified as Very Important Buyers (VIB) and Solitaire Club members, the business matching service programme also extend beyond providing sourcing needs to encompass secretariat services and fixing appointments with the exhibitors at the tradeshow this year.

IFFS/AFS 2003 also promises to attract the industry's most sought-after furniture buyers. Noteworthy amongst major buyers who have confirmed their attendance at the fair are Australia's largest retail group, the Freedom Group and furniture giant, Courts from the United Kingdom. IFFS/AFS 2003 is also expecting buying associations - including Garant Moebel and Wohngruppe Mobeleinkauf, Conforama, Fuji Boeki, and the Nitori Group - and buying delegations from Ecuador, the United States and Middle East, to visit the show, thus underlining the fair's leadership position as one of the world's major furniture tradeshows. 

In addition, IFFS/AFS 2003 will be a platform of constructive exchange for furniture design in Asia as the fair is set to organise its first design forum, to be held on 1 March 2003 at the Singapore Expo. In addition to its annual Furniture Design Competition (FDC), which serves to showcase top furniture design talents, the new design forum will raise the profile of furniture design in Asia. Top-notch designers and furniture industry specialists will participate as judges at FDC and speak at the design forum during the tradeshow. 

"By continually expanding the scope of the show, IFFS/AFS seeks to add value to exhibitors and buyers and meet the evolving needs of the marketplace. Given the difficult economic conditions, the strong response from the market is a reflection that we are moving in the right direction, addressing the demands of the industry, as well as exceeding their expectations. As such, we are looking to achieve on-spot orders of USD 200 million and follow-on orders of USD 1.7 billion from IFFS/AFS 2003," said Mr Koh. "No matter how you look at it, IFFS/AFS 2003 is without a doubt, the premier furniture trade show in Asia," he concluded.

Split Strategy of China International Furniture Fair (CIFF) Greatly Rewarded
Scale Doubled for Woodwork Guangzhou 2003

Jointly organized by China Foreign Trade Guangzhou Exhibition Corporation and Adsale Exhibition Services Ltd., Guangzhou International Exhibition on Woodworking Machinery and Furniture Accessories & Materials (also known as Woodwork Guangzhou 2003) will be staged at the new Jinhan Centre, next to China Foreign Trade Centre, from March 18-21, 2003. The fair is well-received by exhibitors and over 85% exhibition space of the double-storey venue has already been reserved.

Woodwork Guangzhou 2003 is the expansion of the renowned China International Furniture Fair (CIFF), which has grown so rapidly that the organizer determined to split the woodworking machinery and furniture accessories section into an individual fair to be held concurrently. “The new move can initiate greater synergy between the two events and bring greater convenience and benefits to both exhibitors and visitors. In fact the scale of the woodworking machinery and furniture accessories section has doubled its scale so far. And for the first time we’ve got overseas pavilions from Korea, Taiwan Province and the US as well as support from ICE & ACIMALL,” said Mr. K S Tong, Managing Director of Adsale Exhibition Services Ltd.

Renowned exhibitors including Homag China Golden Field, Wellex, Golden Image, Casco Adhesives, Leggett & Platt, 3M, Julius Blum, Paul’s Group, American Hardwood Export Council, Ohio Department of Agriculture and Quebec Wood Export Bureau etc. will display a wide spectrum of exhibits ranging from complete panels manufacturing plant, secondary processing machinery, finishing and coating machines, multi-purpose woodworking machinery, saw blades and cutting tools, and other auxiliary woodworking machinery etc. There will be 4 specialized theme zones to enhance technological interchange, namely “Woodworking Machinery Zone”, “Chemicals & Adhesives Zone”, “Foreign Hardware Zone” and “Foreign Hardwoods Zone”, where the latest abrasives, adhesives, assembly fittings, chemicals, decorative paper, furniture components and accessories, furniture hardware, leather, moulding, surface treatment materials, timber & veneer etc. will be showcased.

All Adsale’s exhibitors can enjoy not only the massive promotion campaigns by the organizer, but also a one-year free standard virtual. This can greatly maximize the promotion effectiveness of exhibitors joining Guangzhou International Exhibition on Woodworking Machinery and Furniture Accessories & Materials.

25 - 28 February 2003, Shanghai, China

WOODMAC CHINA 2003 SOLD OUT - MONTHS BEFORE OPENING

WoodMac China 2003, the 5th International Forestry and Woodworking Machinery and Supplies Exhibition, 25 - 28 February, is already sold out some 3 months before opening. Billed as 'The Biggest Show in the Best Market' the demand for space from international and Chinese woodworking machinery manufacturers has driven the organisers, Hong Kong Exhibition Services a member of The Montgomery Network (TMN), to build stands in the lobby areas and erect temporary structures outside.

From the first WoodMac China in 1995 each show has increased in size and number of exhibitors (483 from 26 countries in 2001) and is now established as the major international woodworking industry event for the Chinese market. Traditionally supported by all the leading European, American, Japanese and Chinese machinery manufacturers WoodMac China 2003 is also officially organised with the China National Forestry Machinery Association and the China Forestry Products Industry Association. This combination of extensive woodworking industry knowledge will ensure the widest possible exposure for the exhibition and invitations will be extended through all the supporting associations to buyers from throughout China. Visitor delegations from furniture and board manufacturers and wood processors are already confirmed from Beijing, Heilongjiang Province and Inner Mongolia in the north, Guangdong, Guanxi, Fu Jian and Kunming in the south as well as the neighbouring east China provinces. From outside China visitor delegations are so far expected from Russia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam and Brazil.

A full programme of seminars, conferences and technical presentations will coincide with the exhibition including the All China General Managers Meeting of the National Forestry Machinery Association. WoodMac China is the only show in Shanghai that has this excellent track record of bringing together machinery suppliers with the Chinese and regional buyers of woodworking technology. "Anyone that knows China understands that it takes time to build up a mutual level of trust and co-operation. It has taken us 10 years to build our reputation with the Chinese woodworking community and we are the only international show with a track record of providing our exhibitors with a top quality trade audience from throughout China" said exhibition director Brendan Jennings in Shanghai.

This comprehensive support for WoodMac China 2003, both internationally and from the leading Chinese Associations, is why the 2003 event is sold out and will enhance WoodMac China's reputation as 'The Biggest Show in the Best Market'.

IIWT Expo 2003 - The LARGEST Wood Technology Show in INDIA!!

Concurrent Shows:

(i) PANELS & BOARDS 2003 - Display of plywood, MDF, veneers, wood, boards & panels.

(ii) FURNITECH 2003 - Machineries, Materials & Fittings for Furniture manufacture.


Seminars:

2-day Wood Technology Seminars organized by -

(i) IWST- Institute of Wood Science & Technology, India
(ii) IPIRTI - Indian Plywood Industries Research & Training Institute, India.


Endorsement:

(i) Federation of Indian Plywood & Panel Industry, New Delhi (confirmed)
(ii) South India Plywood Manufacturers Association (expected soon)

International Media Support:

(i) The IIWT Expo 2003 is being supported by publications such as Modern Woodwork, Panels & Furniture Asia, FDM Asia, AWSC, and Woodworking & Furniture Digest (Taiwan).
(ii) The official web portals being Indiaplyweb.com, Timberhunt.com, Asiafurnitek.com and Asiawoodweb.com.


Priority Visitor Access Smart Cards:

Key visitors from Woodworking industry, Plywood, Panels & Boards Manufacturers, Furniture Manufacturers etc. will be sent Priority Visitor Access Smart Cards for easy access to the venue. This will be in addition to general invitation mailing to the wood industry at large in INDIA.


Campaign for Fresh Investments:

Nationwide IIWT Expo 2003 Ad campaign is underway to attract fresh investments from new entrepreneurs in woodworking industry such as Picture Frames, Kitchen Cabinets & Shutters, Doors, Flooring and Mouldings and Profiles, RTA Furniture etc.

There is an excellent response to the event from companies abroad and in India. Many major international companies have already confirmed participation. The No. of Stalls has now been increased in Hall # 1 and over 75% of stalls in Hall # 1 is booked.

An additional increase in stall area is planned by adding another 3000 sq mts in Hall # 2. The decision for this will be taken by 1st week December. This makes IIWT Expo 2003 the LARGEST Wood Technology Expo in INDIA!!

DOMOTEX asia/CHINAFLOOR 2003 - The Largest Trade Fair For Floor Coverings In Asia

DOMOTEX asia/CHINAFLOOR, Asia's pre-eminent trade fair for floor coverings will again open its doors in Shanghai from March 25-27, 2003. While celebrating its fifth birthday, the show has reached new grounds: In the same way as Domotex Worldwide and Surfaces in the United States, DOMOTEX asia/CHINAFLOOR has finally established itself as the one and only event for floor coverings in Asia!

The last edition, DOMOTEX asia/CHINAFLOOR 2002 was held in March 26-28, in Shanghai, for the first time in a joint venture between Deutsche Messe AG - organizer of DOMOTEX Hannover - and Jaarbeurs Keylong China - founder of Chinafloor. 

Unaffected by the worldwide difficult economic climate, the fourth edition of Chinafloor remained on track for records: 272 leading companies of the industry hailing from 30 different countries displayed their latest and best in the floor covering industry. This was significantly up from 220 exhibitors in 2001 (+24%). These top internationally operating enterprises occupied some 15,000 square meters. 

More than 11,000 trade visitors attended this trend-setting show at a new venue: Shanghai New International Expo Centre (SNIEC) in the Pudong district of Shanghai. Some 1400 visitors came from outside China - almost twice as many as the years before, confirming DOMOTEX asia/CHINAFLOOR's position as a leading trade platform for the floor covering industry in Asia.

Hardwood flooring, laminated flooring, related technology, raw materials and services will again be one of the main sectors of the show. With international and local exhibitors like Homag, Leitz Tooling, Richmond Machine Works in the technology section and international flooring manufacturers like Pergo, Quickstep and Kronoflooring the show has got an excellent image in Asia's wood flooring industry. 

Extensive media campaigns and strong partnerships with printed and online media will again ensure a broad publicity and an excellent attendance of quality buyers: With 'Asiawoodweb.com', 'Asiafurnitek.com', 'Timberhunt.com' and 'Indiaplyweb.com' as the official websites; 'Panels and Furniture' and 'FDM Asia' as official publications, DOMOTEX asia/CHINAFLOOR 2003 could reach hands with the pre-eminent media of the industry.

DOMOTEX asia/CHINAFLOOR 2003 will be the place to display and to source products for the flooring industry - in other words, an event which cannot be missed!

FURNITECH and PANELS & BOARDS to be part of IIWT EXPO 2003

Furnitech 2003 (Furniture Manufacturing Technology Show) & Panels & Boards 2003 will run parallel to IIWT Expo 2003 at Chennai from 21st to 24 February 2003. 

Announcing the latest development, Chennai based M/s Unitech Exhibitions Private Limited says the demand from many companies in India and aboard in the furniture materials and panels/boards segment had influenced this latest development to run these special show parallel to IIWT Expo (India International Wood Technology Expo 2003) during 21st - 24th Feb 2003 at Chennai Trade Center, Chennai City, INDIA. 

IIWT Expo 2003, will be a highly specialized trade show, showcasing innovative equipment, machinery and technology for woodworking and processing to finishing of wood. Furnitech 2003 will display machinery, materials, fittings and accessories for furniture manufacturing & Panels & Boards 2003 will showcase various types of panels and boards at IIWT Expo 2003. 

This is the first and only total wood, panels and furniture technology fair in Chennai City, the business hub of Southern India, with more than 250 Stands housed in a total area of 7000 sq.mts. 

Apart from major Indian companies exhibiting, participation in a major way is expected from countries such as Italy, Germany, the UK, Spain, Austria, the USA, Taiwan, China, etc. Nearly 12,000 trade visitors are expected to attend the Fair both from India and abroad. Entry to the expo is FREE but is restricted only to trade, industry and professionals in the industry.

Two day Technology Seminars will be also held during the show at the venue in co-operation with leading wood technology institutions in the country. Major manufactures federations and associations will also endorse the show, this, the organizers fell will better network the event among the industry at large. 

IIWT Expo 2003 has the approval of India Trade Promotion Organization, (ITPO) New Delhi and R.E. Rogers Worldwide & Siddhartha Logistics are the Official Logistics and Freight Handling Agencies for this exhibition.

Indiaplyweb.com, Timberhunt.com, Asiafurnitek.com and Asiawoodweb.com are the official web portals. Modern Woodwork, FDM Asia and Panels & Furniture Asia are the official publications for IIWT Expo 2003. Further details can be had from the dedicated show website www.iiwtexpo.com

THE OPENING CEREMONY OF WOODTECH MALAYSIA 2002

THE OPENING CEREMONY OF WOODTECH MALAYSIA HAS TAKEN PLACE AT THE MINES EXHIBITION CENTRE, KUALA LUMPUR

TIME 10.15 ARRIVAL OF THE GUESTS 7 MEMEBERS OF THE PRESS

TIME 10.45 ARRIVAL OF YB DATO'SERI, DR. LIM KENG YAIK, MINISTRY OF PRIMARY INDUSTRIES, MALAYSIA.

TIME 11.00 WELCOME SPEECH BY MR. JONATHAN KAN MG DIR. TRADE-LINK EXHIBITION SERVICES SDN BHD.

OPENING REMARKS BY MR. CHAN HON WENG, PRESIDENT, MALAYSIAN WOODWORKING MACHINERY ASSOCIATION

ADDRESS BY YB DATO SERI, DR. LIM KENG YAIK, MINISTRY OF PRIMARY INDUSTRIES, MALAYSIA.

AN ARTICLE:

Woodtech Malaysia 2002, the region's premier exhibition featuring woodworking, timber processing and furniture manufacturing supplies opens today. The exhibition was officially opened by Dato'Seri Dr. Lim Keng Yaik, Minister of Primary industries of Malaysia.

Woodtech Malaysia is the only woodworking show endorsed by the Europen Federation of Woodworking Machinery manufacturers (EUMABOIS), a grouping of 12 national associations representing major European manufacturers of woodworking machineries and accessories. It is fully supported by the Ministry of Primary Industries of Malaysia, and endorsed by the Malaysian Woodworking Machinery Association (MWMA) and the Malaysian Furniture Industry Council (MFIC).

The 5 day event covers 30,000 sqm and features more than 2500 from 600 exhibitors. Among the 31 countries represented at the exhibition are the impressive national pavilions from Germany, Taiwan, Italy and China.

Managing Director of Trade-Link Exhibition Services, Jonathan Kan, said, " Woodtech Malaysia is now the biggest woodworking show in ASEAN and has attracted many foreign visitors from as far as India, Vietnam,the Philippines and Indonesia. We believe Woodtech Malaysia has become the most important event for woodworking manufacturers around the world, and they will be able to cover a wider market in this one exhibition."

"We hope that Malaysian manufacturers will not miss this golden oppurtunity to gain firsthand info on the latest and the most advanced technology, especially since they have to depend on automation and the latest production techniques to increase productivity with the most cost effective machinery, to compete in the martket." Kan added.

The Woodtech Malaysia 2002 Conference held in conjunction with the exhibition will feature topics ranging from foresty management, woodworking technology and industry issues. Co-ordinated by Asian Timber, the 2-day conference will address the current interests issues and solutions of the industry.

WTM2002 , incorporating FURNITECH 2002 and FOREST 2002, is held at The Mines from 19-23 September 2002, and opens at 10.30 AM daily. The exhibition is open to all trade visitors by business card registration.

The organiser has arranged for shuttle services between the Sungei besi LRT station and the MINES exhibition centre every 30 minutes to provide transfers for visitors who do not drive.


** METALTECH2003, The 10th Malaysian International Metal Working Machine Tools CAD-CAM Meterology Mould & Die, SURFACE heat & treatment sub contracting foundry IA Robotics PRECISION ENGINEERING AND WELDING TECHNOLOGY EXHIBTION.

7--11 MAY 2003 AT PUTRA WORLD TRADE CENTRE, KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA.

 
    Thailand furniture and woodworking industry needs to 
    upgrade technology and improve product competitiveness 
    to sustain world market share


The Thai Furniture Industries Association (FA) and Reed Tradex jointly stage the next FurnitechWoodtech2003 during March 14-17, at BITEC, Bangkok. This is to emphasis on manufacturers in furniture and woodworking industry, the need of advance technology, production efficiency, skill labor in order to maintain our product competitiveness as well as to retain market share in the world market.

Despite the hurdles recurring in the global economy, Thailand's furniture industry keeps accelerating its growth rate at a high and constant speed, as seen in Export Promotion Department's 2003 exportation forecast figure of US$ 1,117 millions. Additionally, the local housing industry seems to be resurrected from the bubble burst since 1997, and begins to have a beautiful journey in years to come as more housing registrations in Greater Bangkok were reported in 2001 with 6 per cent growth higher than that of the previous year. Substantially, up to 25 per cent growth rate is expected in 2002, particularly in the detached house market. 

Nevertheless, exporters and manufacturers are facing a strong competition from neighboring countries such as Vietnam and China in getting more and more market share from Thailand. So it's time for us to strengthen our production, create our own brands and designs to be able to compete with those low cost competitors.

With a success record and has been serving Thailand's woodworking and furniture production industry for almost 20 years, FurnitechWoodtech, an biennial event, will be organized for the ninth time next year with a support from local and international government bodies and related associations as usual. 


FurnitechWoodtech2003 has become a major exhibition for woodworking and furniture production, including fittings and furnishings, in the kingdom of Thailand. It has also been perceived as a key marketplace for the industry professionals in the whole Southeast Asia region to network and establish business partnership. Consequently, for 2003 edition, the theme focus is shifted to "Enhance Product Competitiveness" to stimulate strengths of relevant manufacturers and distributors in this region and to support Thailand's positioning as one of the key rubber tree planters and exporters as well as particleboard producers in the world. 

FurnitechWoodtech2003 will present the four major segments to be more focus on show positioning and cater to market needs from raw materials to machinery and applications. 
* FurniTech Expo: International presentation of furniture fittings, upholstery, furnishings and accessories.
* WoodTech Expo: International presentation o