The number of buyers attending Summer Showtime last month was up about 8% over previous shows, according to the International Textile Market Assn., which sponsors the semiannual event here.
Nearly 200 ITMA members presented their latest fabric, leather and trim introductions targeted to the home furnishings and other industries during Showtime, which is recognized as the largest textile show in the Western Hemisphere.
“Our mission is to maintain and enhance the value of Showtime for ITMA’s members as well as their customers and potential customers,” says Catherine Morsell, director of ITMA.
“Historically we’ve catered more to furniture manufacturers, but over the years, our buying population has become more diverse, so we want to be sure we are meeting the needs of these other buying segments as well,” says Morsell. “We’ve started with window coverings through our association with Grace McNamara Inc. and Window Fashion Vision magazine, and next year we’ll develop our relationship with the top-of-the-bed segment.”
At Summer Showtime 2009, Deb Barrett, of Window Fashion Vision magazine, gave two well-attended presentations during the show – one on trends and the other an international design report.
Also present at Showtime were the first-place winners of the 14th annual Virginia Jackson Student Design Awards. The winning designs in three categories – jacquard, dobby and print – were displayed at the show and the students were invited to meet with members of the industry and show their portfolios. The awards, which include cash prizes to students and their schools, are a major initiative of ITMA’s Educational Foundation.
Founded in 1990, ITMA is a non-profit trade association that produces Showtime for its member companies. Showtime boasts the most extensive presentation of fabric, leather and trimmings in the Western Hemisphere. The 40th edition of Showtime is set for December 6-9, 2009.
Additional information about Showtime, ITMA and its member companies is available on the Web at www.itmashowtime.com; by phone at (336) 885-6842; and by email to itmashowtime@northstate.net.