2011 APLF-MM&T: Global leather industry has plenty to smile about

FNA posted on 30 Mar 2011--Despite uncertain and volatile market conditions generally the international leather making sector remains remarkably buoyant.

Although economic conditions have impacted badly in some countries, the market for high-end and luxury goods has remained strong in others: notably China, but including also the likes of India, Brazil, Russia sometimes referred to as the BRIC economies - and other emerging markets , especially in Asia.

In fact there is a shortage of raw material as extreme weather conditions have affected live stock numbers. This benefits some producers, like those whose livestock numbers have not been affected, since prices are rising.

As ever, there are those who are about to beat the odds and those who have. And to help continue their success, some are attending MM&T.

This year there are some 1,235 exhibitors hailing from over 51 countries and regions, with Pakistan as the focus country, bringing in up to 80 exhibiting companies. There are also 26 group pavilions from 19 countries and 82 first time exhibitors.

Exhibitors cover the entire spectrum of leather production, from raw hides, semi- and finished-leather, exotics through to process chemicals and dyes, tanning and shoe machinery.

With fashion trends playing a major role in the leather industry forecasts for Spring/Summer 2012 are previewed at the Materials Trends Space. These are developed for APLF in collaboration with the Paris based Comite Francais de la Couleur.

Special icons help identify nominees, past winners and current winners of the Best of APLF Awards (BOAA) while there is a special Upholstery & Automotive Mark identifying 90+ exhibitors in this sector.

And, each year, a full range of seminars, like the annual leather conference (on Sourcing, Safety & Sustainability ), and other on-site events are available to assist attendees stay abreast of new processes and developments. There is also an interesting debate, entitled What s in a name? that aims to find a form of words that adequately differentiates between natural leather and its various man-made alternatives.