Indian Shoe Bazaar - Footwear Fairs: APLF Oct. 2003 Press Release

New Season's Offering to Buyers at APLF 2003 October

A spirit of optimism characterizes APLF 2003 October Show which will open from 6 to 8 October, 2003 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. Over 450 exhibiting companies from 23 countries and regions are participating in the October Show.

Spain has an impressive line-up again this year. The Spanish Footwear Industries Federation (FICE) has organized a group of 18 companies showing a stylish range of footwear at the forefront of fashion. Among the Spanish exhibitors are Jaime Mascar, Magrit, Karoline, Paloma Barcel, Pertini, Puntotres, Rebeca Sanver, Pons Quintana, Sacha London and Salvador Sapena.

For the first time in the October Show, Tokyo Japan Pavilion will present the latest footwear from Tokyo.

There is also a group of eight leading handbag companies from Cebu, the creative heart of the Philippines. These companies supply famous international brands and are known for their elegant use of natural materials in their collections.

There will be an enlarged raw materials sector at APLF in October, a four-fold increase over last year. Over 50 exhibitors are attending, featuring high quality leathers from Australia, France, Italy, and South Africa; synthetic leathers from mainland China and Taiwan; components for handbags and footwear from Hong Kong and Taiwan, and process chemicals from the United States.

Trade buyers are ready for business at the first APLF this year. The number of buyers from mainland China is expected to be higher under the Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement (CEPA) recently concluded between Hong Kong and mainland China. Buyers from mainland China can now enter Hong Kong on an individual travel package instead of having to join an organized group.

The Online Preview of APLF 2003 October Show launched in September 2003 provides exhibitors with an additional shop window to promote their products while buyers can seek out the 'must-see' exhibitors and products well before the fair starts. Time spent at APLF is therefore more effective for everyone.

Adding an important dimension to APLF will be the informative seminar programme. "Brand Building in Mainland China" will be presented by Mr. Boby Chan, Chairman and Managing Director of Hong Kong-based fashion retailer Moiselle. A seminar on "Franchising and Chain Development of Fashion Goods in Mainland China" will be presented by Dr Eric Wong, Principal Consultant of The American Consultants League SCAP Westminster Associate Company. Last but not least, there will be the popular fashion trend forecast seminar on "Fall Winter 2004-05: Colours, Material Trends and Influences" by Ms Mary Yan Yan Chan of Peclers Paris Style Central Ltd. Those who are interested in participating can reserve their seat at info@aplf.com.

Other highlights include two trends displays: the Spanish Footwear Trend Area and the 'Artistic Shoe Displays' by young designers in Hong Kong.

A five-minute Fashion Parade will take place five times a day in Hall 5. A model will present in different locations in the hall so that buyers can take a close look at the products.