ImagesMagUK_Digital_Edition_March_2018

INDUSTRY EVENT www.images-magazine.com 44 images MARCH 2018 The Mighty Hoops were commanding a lot of business at the ETC Supplies stand, said managing director Jas Purba, along with the company’s innovative new backing materials and a screwdriver that doesn’t bend – the answer to every embroiderer’s prayers? It was Asquith Supplies first time at Printwear & Promotion, explained sales manager Jeff Keam. Jeff and his colleague Dan Whitell were on hand to explain the vast range of labels the company can manufacture, and how relabeling garments can reinforce a brand. There were a multitude of new products on the Beechfield Brands stands, including the BagBase Duo Knit Backpack (BG198) in electric yellow/black. This retail-ready style taps into the current trend for knitted trainers. On the Quadra side, the new Lunch Cooler Bag (QD435) was proving a winner for decorators servicing the kids’ market, with another great new product, the Mesh Gymsac (QD460), adding much appreciated ventilation to the traditional gym bag. Kids were also big news on the Bella + Canvas stand where European sales and marketing manager San Ferdinand reported huge interest in the brand’s newly launched Kids collection of fashionable childrenswear in trendy colours and fabrics. Neil and Gemma Kippen of Fusible Systems, which distributes the James & Nicholson and Myrtle Beach brands, had a wide variety of styles on show, including standout products, such as hats made from recycled paper and an attractive knitted hybrid jacket. New brand Écologie by AWDis offers sustainable styles made from ecologically- friendly cotton. A standout style amongst visitors was the unisex Iguazu Knitted Hoody (EA080), which has a SuperDry vibe, is made from 70% regenerated, pre-consumer cotton and has a two-tone colour effect. Those looking for good quality workwear that is value-priced found precisely that on the Pro RTX stand. The new collection offers a wide range of both colours and sizes, with some styles – such as the polycotton Pro Polo (RX101) – going up to size 7XL. (See ‘Talking workwear with Sharon Bell’, page 70, for more details.) It was clear from its presence at the show that American Apparel is firmly back in the promotional market. The brand’s dancewear was particularly popular with customers, with its Cotton Spandex Jersey Leggings being highlighted as an especially comfortable style for yoga fans. New brand Écologie by AWDis offers sustainable styles