Taking place at the BITEC exhibition centre from 22 to 24 February 2018, Fespa Asia has already had 60% re-books from last year, and will feature more than 100 exhibitors, with the likes of InkTec, M&R and Caldera already confirmed and Stahls, Monti Antonio and Foilack making their Fespa Asia debuts. 

Following on from its debut show last year when visitor representation came from more than 60 countries, it is now aiming for footfall of around 6,000. 

Fespa divisional director Roz Guarnori said: “We are very optimistic given the market research that we’ve independently carried out over the past six months, the growth of speciality printing in Asia means that Fespa Asia is even more important next year to provide the platform of education, networking and business for the ASEAN region.

“We are hearing news about exciting new launches, as yet very much under wraps but visitors should expect to see ways in which they can further exploit existing markets as well as develop new business through diversification. 

“We are increasing our marketing activities both within Thailand and across the ASEAN region to continue to develop this fast growing exhibition.” 

Guarnori added that Fespa had partnered with consultant Smithers Pira for strategic research into the sector.

“It is clear from their report that we can expect the fastest growth in key speciality print areas within Asia and visitors can learn more about these opportunities when these findings are presented in February next year,” she said. 

In a further indication of its commitment to the region, Fespa has also recently appointed a new Asian business development manager, Hannah Pan, along with adding Celine Yan to its regional sales team.

As with all other Fespa events, the show will feature its Wrap Masters challenge in the form of Wrap Masters Asia, along with a textile printing workshop and a range of seminars.

It is being supported by a range of local associations, including the Thai Garment Manufacturers Association, Thai Advertising Business Development Association and Thai Textile Institute, and further support is provided by Fespa’s ASEAN member associations, the likes of India, Sri Lanka and Nepal, who represent a combined membership of more than 2,000 PSPs.

Fespa is now gearing up for its Mexico and Eurasia shows, taking place before the year is out, while plans are well advanced for Fespa 2018 in Berlin in May. Earlier this year it launched Fespa Direct, allowing printers from non-member associations access to its services.