Historically speaking, the buyers attending Showtime, The International Textile Market Association’s semi-annual fabric market, consisted of representatives from home furnishings manufacturers. But in recent years, attendance rolls at Showtime reflect a growing interest in home décor fabric from non-traditional markets.

“The strongest base of customers for our members is still home furnishings manufacturers, but it’s exciting to see an expanding appreciation for the quality and innovative designs that are available in the traditional home textile market,” says Catherine Morsell, director of the International Textile Market Association, the non-profit trade association that sponsors Showtime for its members.

According to Morsell, there is at least one Hollywood studio that sends a costume designer to Showtime. Children’s apparel manufacturers, handbag and accessories manufacturers’ representatives, high-end women’s apparel reps and custom recreational vehicle and even yacht designers are among the buyers browsing the floors at Showtime.

Now in its 17th year, the winter edition of Showtime will run Sunday, December 2 through Wednesday, December 5 in High Point. Typically, nearly 800 buying companies come to see the latest offerings presented by the 220-plus ITMA member companies.

For more information on Showtime and the ITMA, visit:
www.itma-showtime.com or call 336-885-6842.

To view the Winter 2007 Showtime schedule of events, visit:
www.itma-showtime.com/content/showtimeupdate.cfm.

By Shannon Kennedy, High Point Market Authority