HONG KONG, Sept 8, 2024 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - The physical exhibitions of the 43rd HKTDC Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair and 12th Salon de TIME, organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), Hong Kong Watch Manufacturers Association Ltd and The Federation of Hong Kong Watch Trades & Industries Ltd, successfully concluded yesterday.Despite the fairs closing temporarily due to typhoon Yagi, businesses were still able to capture more opportunities as the organisers extended the opening hours for three of the five fair days. Buyers and exhibitors were also proactively encouraged to use the EXHIBITION+ hybrid model for business exchange.The physical exhibitions attracted some 17,000 buyers from 106 countries and regions. Global buyers from outside Hong Kong mainly came from Mainland China, Taiwan, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore and Thailand, highlighting Hong Kong’s importance as a watch trading centre. The EXHIBITION+ hybrid model will enable exhibitors and buyers to enjoy extended business discussions until 14 September.Salon de TIME and CENTRESTAGE, HKTDC’s concurrent fashion event, were also fully open to the public for the first time. The public count for the events exceeded 15,000 visits. Watch and fashion enthusiasts were able to appreciate the pinnacle in craftsmanship and design and purchase their favourite items.HKTDC Deputy Executive Director Sophia Chong said: “The Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair and Salon de TIME brought together over 700 exhibitors from 15 countries and regions. In addition to welcoming international buyers, this year’s Salon de TIME was fully open to the public for the first time, providing a one-stop sourcing platform and creating new business opportunities. Exhibitors were able to learn about customer preferences immediately, which will help strengthen product design and research and development, enhancing competitiveness in the future.”Ms Chong added: “An exciting line-up of mega events will captivate visitors this autumn. The Hong Kong Electronics Fair (Autumn Edition) and the concurrent electronicAsia will be held on 13-16 October, followed by the Hong Kong International Lighting Fair (Autumn Edition) on 27-30 October. The International Outdoor and Tech Light Expo will be held from 29 October to 1 November. These fairs will be held under the EXHIBITION+ hybrid model, helping businesses capture new opportunities.”Survey uncovers promise in ASEAN and the Middle EastTo gauge watch and clock industry trends for next year, the HKTDC conducted an on-site survey, interviewing some 900 exhibitors and buyers on the market outlook and product trends.The survey found that 42% of respondents expect overall sales to grow over the next 12-24 months, while 47% expect sales to remain unchanged. Japan, Taiwan, Australia & Pacific Islands, and South Korea were seen as offering the best growth prospects over next two years among traditional markets, while ASEAN, the Middle East and India were seen as offering the most promising growth prospects over the next two years among emerging markets.In terms of product trends, 40% of respondents expected smartwatches to continue as the most popular watch category. Other respondents pointed to quartz analogue watches, cited as the most popular watch category by 17%, mechanical watches, cited by 15%, and digital watches, cited by 14%. When asked about watches with the highest growth potential, 46% of respondents cited smartwatches, 37% said fashion watches and 19% said leisure watches.Green Solutions Suppliers label debuts this yearIn recent years, more watch manufacturers have been using sustainable materials to make watches and watch straps. Amid the sustainability trend, the two fairs introduced Green Solutions Suppliers label this year to make sourcing easier for buyers. These labels were used by 30 exhibitors.Amy Chow, Vice President of Hong Kong exhibitor Gordon C & Co Ltd, said: “The Green Solutions Suppliers label helped attract buyers to our booth. Buyers from the Middle East and Southeast Asia were very interested in our eco-friendly watches. The business atmosphere is good this year. We expect that new orders at this year's exhibition will increase by 10-20% compared to last year. About 10-15% of new orders will be for environmentally friendly watches.”Armoura Designs Ltd, an Irish jewellery and watch company, has been using the hktdc.com Sourcing platform to find suppliers. Mr Stuart McGrath, the company’s Managing Director is impressed with the platform and has connected with various quality suppliers through it.  He said: “This is my first time visiting the Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair in person. I have found five watch suppliers for OEM projects and have also procured a green packaging solution from an exhibitor. The total value of these business deals is around US$110,000 (~HK$858,000). The EXHIBITION+ model enables me to source online and offline for more opportunities.”Ethos Limited is a retail chain for deluxe watches in India. Mohammad Sajjad, the company’s Assistant Vice President, visited the fairs to look for new brands. He said, “I have ordered sapphire watches and sapphire watch cases, stainless steel watches and automatic health indicator watches from three Hong Kong exhibitors. The order amount was around US$1.2 million (~HK$9.4 million). This time, I also used the Scan2Match function. It is a useful and resourceful tool. It helps record details of exhibitors of interest in a digital, eco-friendly manner.＂Ilona Remesova, Prime’s Purchasing Manager, a buyer from Czechia, said that she continued to contact exhibitors during the fairs’ temporary closure through HKTDC’s Click2Match smart business matching platform at her hotel and successfully arranged online meetings. She also returned to the venue when the exhibition reopened and continued the conversation with the exhibitors she contacted online before.Photo download: https://bit.ly/3zajKvpThe 43rd HKTDC Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair and 12th Salon de TIME drew to a successful close yesterday, attracting some 17,000 buyers from 106 countries and regions.The World Brand Piazza showcased 10 top-tier watch brands, captivating visitors.Salon de TIME was fully open to the public for the first time this year.The two fairs featured pavilions from Guangdong, Guangzhou and Taiwan, as well as South Korea (above), which returned after the pandemic.Swiss Independent Watchmaking Pavilion (SIWP), Francéclat and International Luxury Group (above) returned this year, presenting more international brands.  During the watch fairs, the Hong Kong Tourism Board arranged a sightseeing tram tour on 3 September and a Wing Chun experience on 4 September, enhancing the experience for exhibition visitors.The Hong Kong International Watch Forum (above) and Asian Watch Conference invited various experts to discuss industry prospects, design trends and development strategies.The 41st HK Watch & Clock Design Competition featured an Open Group and a Student Group. Artist Benjamin Yuen served as a guest judge and attended the awards ceremony.An array of exciting activities took place during the fairs, including watch parades (above), a watch engraving demonstration and Smart Bidding. Fabulous prizes were also given out during lucky draws. Media enquiriesPlease contact the HKTDC’s Communications & Public Affairs Department:Johnny Tsui Tel: (852) 2584 4395           Email: johnny.cy.tsui@hktdc.org  Bubble Ma    Tel: (852) 2584 4369Email: bubble.ma@hktdc.org  WebsitesHong Kong Watch & Clock Fair: hkwatchfair.hktdc.comSalon de TIME: hkwatchfair.hktdc.com/teAbout HKTDCThe Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong's trade. With 50 offices globally, including 13 in Mainland China, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus.  Copyright 2024 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

- This year’s event attracted renowned international brands, with a stunning opening fashion show by acclaimed designer Robert Wun at the Hong Kong Palace Museum- Opening hours were extended, with buyers encouraged to engage in business discussions through the Exhibition+ platform to mitigate the impact of the typhoon. The event drew more than 8,500 buyers from 82 countries and regions- A survey indicated that 34.8% of respondents expect sales to increase in the next six to 12 months, while 56.3% anticipate that sales will remain unchanged- 36% of respondents believe that rising demand in emerging markets is the biggest opportunity this year- 39% and 29% of respondents respectively believe that fashion accessories and urban clothing hold the greatest growth potential for the industryHONG KONG, Sept 7, 2024 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and sponsored by the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA), CENTRESTAGE, the region's annual fashion showcase, drew to a successful close today. Due to the impact of the typhoon, the exhibition was temporarily suspended. The HKTDC extended the opening hours of the fair for three days and proactively encouraged buyers to use the Exhibition+ platform, making the most of both online and offline interactions to seize business opportunities.This year's CENTRESTAGE showcased more than 250 brands from 18 countries and regions, setting a record for brand participation at the event. The four-day physical fair attracted more than 8,500 buyers from 82 countries and regions, with a significant increase in buyers from Thailand, Malaysia, Japan, Taiwan and other regions.CENTRESTAGE and Salon de TIME, the HKTDC’s concurrent fashion event, were fully open to the public free of charge for the first time. The public count for the events exceeded 15,000 visits, successfully assisting exhibitors in expanding their customer base as well as promoting the development of the creative sector.Sophia Chong, Deputy Executive Director of the HKTDC, said: "As a pivotal event in Hong Kong's fashion calendar, CENTRESTAGE this year brought together numerous esteemed international brands, including renowned labels such as ROBERT WUN and ROKSANDA. The event successfully drew a wide array of local, Mainland China and overseas buyers, with major multi-brand stores like CNTRBND from Canada, VOO Store from Germany, SUGAR s.r.l. from Italy, Carv Store from Japan, 10 CORSO COMO SEOUL from South Korea, and onefifthteen from Taiwan, as well as department stores such as Galeries Lafayette from France and Metro (Private) Limited from Singapore, sending representatives to source and engage in invaluable exchanges with exhibitors at the fair. This solidifies the event's status as an essential platform for fashion trade and brand promotion in Asia."Industry survey: optimistic outlook amid growth in online channelsThe HKTDC conducted interviews with around 370 exhibitors and buyers during the event, gaining insights into their perspectives on the future of the fashion industry and their expectations regarding product trends. The survey findings revealed that 34.8% of respondents expect an increase in sales in the next six to 12 months, while 56.3% anticipate that sales will remain unchanged. In addition, half (50.3%) of the respondents expect an increase in the coming 12 to 24 months, while 44.3% anticipate that sales will remain unchanged, reflecting an optimistic stance towards the industry’s sales landscape.According to the survey, 61% of respondents identified fluctuations in the global economy as the most significant challenge this year, while 29% pointed to fluctuating exchange rates. At the same time, 36% of respondents viewed rising demand from emerging markets as the major opportunity in 2024. As online procurement continues to gain momentum, 52% of respondents said they used both offline and online channels, while 23% indicated sole reliance on online sales and sourcing channels.Fashion accessories take centre stage as industry sees market potentialMany international brands are incorporating accessories into their clothing, with designs that combine style and comfort becoming a trending feature. Survey insights reflected these trends, with 39% and 29% of respondents respectively seeing fashion accessories and urban clothing as holding the greatest growth potential in their primary sales markets.Local exhibitor YGM Group showcased its international golf brand ASHWORTH's athleisure apparel at CENTRESTAGE. The company's Brand Manager Becky Kam noted that the new zones for athleisure and circular fashion at the fair aligned with important market trends and attracted relevant buyers, helping to generate business opportunities for the company. "About 20 buyers have approached us, exceeding our expectations,” Ms Kam said. “Most buyers are from Singapore and Thailand, with some from the Middle East and Russia. I believe we can reach agreements with eight buyers from Singapore and Thailand, and if we successfully sell the agency licence, it is likely to amount to tens of thousands of US dollars."Iris Ramos, founder of Duxton, a Singapore brand exhibiting with the Singapore Fashion Council, was pleased to see numerous buyers and visitors from Australia, Germany and Mainland China visit their booth on the first day of the event. "Many buyers are interested in our brand. Currently, five international stores have confirmed their intention to carry our products. The fair has significantly increased our exposure and helped us gain a better understanding of the market."International buyers journeyed to the fair. Japanese buyer Keisuke Fujita, CEO of THE FOUR-EYED Limited, said: "After attending 11 business matching meetings with exhibitors at the fair, we anticipate order amounts to be between US$8,000 and US$16,000. We also greatly appreciate the HKTDC extending the exhibition hours to mitigate the impact of the typhoon, and we are likely to return to the fair next year." He added that the "Scan2Match" feature of the HKTDC’s Marketplace app, which allows buyers to scan exhibitors' QR codes, save their favourite exhibitors and browse product information, is a very useful tool for buyers.Korean buyer Jonghun Park from Samsung C&T Fashion Group sourced contemporary and avant-garde fashion brands at CENTRESTAGE and identified Italian brand LA HAINE INSIDE US (LH). "LH's designs are very suitable for our discerning clients, and we may place our first order valued at approximately US$15,000. The fair has allowed us to connect with innovative designers from around the world, diversifying our brand portfolio and keeping us at the forefront of fashion trends."Local designers dazzle in vibrant fashion showcasesForty fashion shows and events were held over the four days of the exhibition, with the opening show, CENTRESTAGE ELITES, standing out as a highlight. This memorable event took place on 3 September and was the first time for a fashion show to be held at the Hong Kong Palace Museum. The event welcomed the participation of Robert Wun, the first Hong Kong designer featured at Paris Haute Couture Week, whose “Home Coming” show marked his much-anticipated return to the city.The fashion show received widespread praise as it was live-streamed across multiple platforms, with the public still able to revisit the spectacle via the CENTRESTAGE official website and the HKTDC's Facebook page and YouTube channel. In addition, a dedicated exhibition space at CENTRESTAGE showcased Robert Wun’s latest collection. The designer also hosted a masterclass on the second day of the fair, where he elaborated on his fashion design philosophy and personal journey. The session attracted many industry professionals, members of the public and fashion design students, all of whom gained valuable insights from his presentation.Continuing its practice of cross-disciplinary collaboration, the Fashion Hong Kong Runway Show this year featured a cinematic approach, with Weeds on Fire* director Steve Chan presenting the fashion narratives of four brands: ANGUS TSUI, röyksopp gakkai, selfFab., and Z I D I. The show was simultaneously broadcast on the CENTRESTAGE website and various online platforms, including the Fashion Hong Kong website and Instagram page, and the HKTDC’s Facebook and YouTube channels, allowing a wider audience to enjoy the experience and revisit the show online.The Redress Design Award 2024 Grand Final Fashion Show, dedicated to promoting the development of circular fashion, was also successfully held at CENTRESTAGE. Several awards were presented, including the First Prize, Runner-up Prize, People’s Choice, and the Hong Kong Best Prize.The Hong Kong fashion platform FASHIONALLY, meanwhile, showcased the latest collections of five local designer brands, including CHARLOTTE NG STUDIO, From Clothing Of, Lapeewee, IP Axis Studio, and WHY. Additionally, three local brands – YAMA GUEST, Murfi Lau and Marcch – received accolades for their latest collections during the three fashion presentations at FASHIONALLY.Several local fashion brands presented their latest design collections during the fashion shows at CENTRESTAGE. Among them, the local brand DEMO, which participated in CENTRESTAGE ELITES in 2022, showcased garments with a Greek inspiration, while another local brand, HARRISON WONG, also showcased its Spring Summer 2025 collection. Other brands including Natacha Van unveiled their latest designs at CENTRESTAGE’s fashion show.*Weeds on Fire was the winner of the 1st First Feature Film Initiative organised by the CCIDA, formerly known as Create Hong Kong.Photo download: https://bit.ly/3XyYjxtCENTRESTAGE and Salon de TIME, HKTDC’s concurrent fashion event, were fully open to the public for free for the first time. The events successfully helped exhibitors to expand their customer base and promoted the development of the creative sector.An annual highlight in the Asian fashion calendar, this year’s CENTRESTAGE welcomed more than 250 brands from 18 countries and regions – a record high brand participation for the event.CENTRESTAGE brings together exhibitors and buyers from various countries and regions, helping to create new business opportunities.The Redress Design Award 2024 Grand Final Fashion Show, dedicated to promoting sustainable fashion development, was successfully held at CENTRESTAGE.Internationally acclaimed designer Robert Wun hosted a masterclass during CENTRESTAGE, sharing his journey in the industry and drawing a large audience of industry professionals, fashion enthusiasts and fashion design students.Various local brands held fashion shows during CENTRESTAGE, including DEMO, HARRISON WONG and Natacha Van. Pictured is the showcase for HARRISON WONG’s latest collection.The Hong Kong Kids Fashion Show was a popular event at CENTRESTAGE. WebsitesCENTRESTAGE: www.centrestage.com.hkFashion Hong Kong: https://www.fashionhongkong.com.hk/enHong Kong Young Fashion Designers' Contest (YDC): www.fashionally.com/enCENTRESTAGE ELITES:  https://www.hktdc.com/event/centrestage/en/livestreamMedia enquiriesBest Crew Public Relations & MarketingDiana Tang  Tel: (852) 9199 6723Email: diana.tang@bestcrewpr.comReni KwokTel: (852) 6291 4283Email: reni.kwok@bestcrewpr.comHKTDC Communication and Public Affairs Department:Snowy ChanTel: (852) 2584 4525Email:snowy.sn.chan@hktdc.orgHKTDC Newsroom: http://mediaroom.hktdc.com/enAbout the HKTDCThe Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong ’s trade. With 50 offices globally, including 13 in Mainland China, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly SMEs, in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus.About Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA)The Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA) established in June 2024, formerly known as Create Hong Kong (CreateHK), is a dedicated office set up by the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR Government) under the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau to provide one-stop services and support to the cultural and creative industries with a mission to foster a conducive environment in Hong Kong to facilitate the development of arts, culture and creative sectors as industries. Its strategic foci are nurturing talent and facilitating start-ups, exploring markets, promoting cross-sectoral and cross-genre collaboration, promoting the development of arts, culture and creative sectors as industries under the industry-oriented principle, and promoting Hong Kong as Asia’s creative capital and fostering a creative atmosphere in the community to implement Hong Kong’s positioning as the East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange under the National 14th Five-Year Plan.CCIDA’s website: www.ccidahk.gov.hk. Copyright 2024 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.