1. Optimization of Sourcing and Supply Chain.
During a leather show, you can:
See several leather, synthetic, accessories (zippers. buckles), chemicals and machinery suppliers at a single location.
Bargain pricing and conditions- DIRECT- with manufacturers which are usually superior to online or email-based offers.
Compare quality Compare it side-by-side rather than using samples or catalogs.
Example:
In the case of a bag or shoe manufacturer, it is possible to find better leather at a cheaper price, or a new supplier whose production is more environmentally friendly.
2. Innovation & Product Development
The creation of new products and services is considered the most promising and enduring solution to the challenges confronting the company, since it aims to enhance its financial performance. Innovation & Product Development The most promising and lasting solution to the problems facing the company is the development of new products and services, as they will improve the financial performance of the company.
Exhibitions of leather tend to display:
New materials such as plant-based leathers, water-coats or water-based tanning solutions, biodegradable.
Fashion trends such as trendy textures, prints and treatments of the future seasons.
Why this matters:
It is essential to maintain your products at par with the changes in trends and material in industries such as the fashion industry, the car industry and the furniture industry. Early adopting trends are an advantage.
3. Networking & Business Growth
You’ll meet:
Wholesalers, distributors and agents in search of new products to distribute.
Designers or brand owners, who want to find partners in the form of private-label.
Consultants or service providers in the industry, such as testing laboratories and certification bodies.
Outcome:
It is possible to establish long-term relations that result in the emergence of new markets, new collaborations, or new orders.
4. Competitive Insight, Market Intelligence.
By strolling around the exhibition floor, you will:
See what the rivalry has on-offer – their designs, pricing, marketing strategy.
Find out what buyers are seeking or not depending on which booths are crowded and what is being enquired.
Conceptualize market trends i.e. a move toward vegan leather, minimalistic design.
Benefit:
You will come back with some ideas on how to improve on your products, pricing, or branding in order to remain a competitor.
5. Sustainability & Compliance
The sustainability is becoming a non-negotiable in most markets. Exhibitions highlight:
Environment friendly leathers and vegetable tanning, chrome free processes.
Certifications: LWG ( Leather Working Group ), ISO, REACH compliance.
Presentations and discussions about making your production more sustainable.
Result:
You are also able to modernize your processes to be able to meet the global environmental standards which is becoming an obligatory requirement of retailers and international purchasers.
6. Learning & Skill Development
The majority of the leather trade shows provide:
Seminars and workshops on such topics as trend forecasting, leather care, technology in the production, or even export rules.
Interviews with industry players and brands founders.
Why attend:
You also learn useful items that can be used in strategic decision-making, product planning, and business development.
7. Sales & Lead Generation
You can even when you are not on exhibit:
Introduce buyers and distribute samples, catalogs or business cards.
Make appointments with prospective clients before the show.
When you are exhibiting, you will have an opportunity to:
Exhibit your products to a high number of targeted audience.
Spot deals or negotiate during the show and convert to orders.
8. Global Exposure
Numerous leather fairs (such as APLF in Hong Kong, Lineapelle in Italy, or IILF in India) are visited by foreign buyers.
Advantage:
You can:
Research on Export opportunities.
Receive international market responses.
Learn demand in various markets (e.g. luxury leather in Europe as compared to high-durability workwear leather in Africa or the Middle East).
Conclusion
By visiting a leather exhibition, you get a 360-degree perspective of the industry; of materials and trends, markets and buyers. It is among the most effective methods of expanding your business, remain competitive, and follow the future of leather.
