Local fabric and readymade garment exporters under the state-owned Export Promotion Bureau (EPB) will take part at the three-day virtual show, first of its kind, scheduled to begin on July 21. The 2020 edition of Texworld / Apparel Sourcing/ Home Textile Sourcing, USA organised by Messe Frankfurt will be virtual this year due to the unprecedented Covid-19 pandemic. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Javits Center which has been turned into a makeshift hospital Messe Frankfurt has decided to take the summer edition show to a virtual platform with the aim to support the sourcing community through these unprecedented times, said a statement. The transition to a virtual event for the summer edition reinforces the fierce commitment to supporting the industry through both good and challenging times. With the returning support of long-standing exhibitors, international and domestic, the July events will open with similar features found on the trade show floor. An online showroom will highlight material innovations, while allowing visitors to chat with representatives about specific requirements, factory options and more. Attendees and exhibitors will have the opportunity to get connected through a smart and intuitive networking tool that calculates and recommends the most relevant people and sessions to users. In addition to the digital exhibit presentation, a comprehensive educational programme will be run, the statement said adding topics will range from sustainability initiatives, environmental and ethical impacts to business tips and sourcing options amidst a pandemic. Zaber and Zubair Fabrics Ltd, a sister concern of leading garment exporter Noman Group, will take part at the virtual showcase. When asked, Anol Ryhan senior manager, brands and customer care of the company, said the virtual event has brought the opportunity to display their latest products before the US buyers at a lower cost. If the company joins the show physically at USA, it would cost around Tk 3.5 million including the stall rent, he said adding now they need to pay less than Tk 0.2 million. The buyers can visit the products picture at the virtual showroom, hold meeting virtually, he said adding though the fair would end after three days, the organiser is also offering additional 27 days to display the products by the virtual platform. He expressed hope that the virtual platform of showcasing latest products will help both the buyers and manufacturers during the corona virus pandemic.
