To the surprise of some last week’s APLF exhibitions in Hong Kong demonstrated an industry that is both resilient and adaptive. Post-Show Reports from both Materials, Manufacturing & Technology (MM&T) and Fashion Access (FA) permit some optimism: a pre-requisite for any business upturn.

Global financial uncertainty was the background theme of a major ‘round table’ discussion on the fact of, and consequences of the collapse of the hide market.  We carry a short report on this event (with a more detailed account to follow).

One of the issues raised concerned the alleged failure of some companies to honour orders from overseas suppliers.  These allegations often involve Chinese companies.  But China has found its voice in the international leather industry, literally, and in the form of Madam Zhang, Chairman of the Chinese Leather Industry Association CLIA) and recently elected President of ICHSLTA.  Madam Zhang, needless to say, refuted these allegations and counter-punched with a few of her own.

There is a short interview with Madam Zhang on developments in the Chinese leather sector. 

Also fighting hard to protect their industry are the south Americans.  The collapse in demand is hurting.

Recollections of the past can be something of a luxury few can afford.  They can also be a guide to the future.  Shelagh Davy, until recently the long-serving editor of ‘Leather International’, reflects on her first visit to APLF in Hong Kong.

One big change is the influence of fashion in all levels of production.  Mike Redwood notes, among other things, that when times are hard end users tend to buy more conservative items, like suits, in dark colours.

It would be nice to think that, following the upbeat mood of APLF that the demand will swing to casuals, in bright colours.  Right away?  Probably not, but it could be the start.