4 February 2026
In the rapidly evolving world of fashion manufacturing, the “ingredients” of a product have become just as important as the final design. For the upcoming APLF 2026, the Materials+ sector is taking center stage, serving as the definitive hub for non-leather materials, footwear components, and fashion hardware.
What is Materials+?
Located within the APLF ecosystem, Materials+ is a specialized B2B sourcing destination. It focuses exclusively:
1. Non-Leather Materials
High-tech synthetics, performance fabrics, and bio-based alternatives.
2. Footwear Components
Everything from the internal “skeleton” of a shoe (insoles and toe puffs) to the outsoles.
3. Fashion Hardware
The aesthetic and functional metal and plastic trims that define a luxury bag or garment.
Spotlight on Innovation: Featured Exhibitors
1. The Tech Pioneers: High-Performance Synthetics
Innovation in this category is no longer just about aesthetics; it’s about high-level functionality and environmental responsibility.
Hengye Times (Zhejiang) New Material Technology
A specialist in sofa and technical fabrics since 2001, they utilize advanced solvent-free and water-based technologies to create eco-friendly materials. Their revolutionary “Gurette” (固芮特) is a new class of material featuring micron-level air sacs that form a light air layer. This ensures the material is “not sticky in summer and not cold in winter,” while offering a high-performance, easy-to-clean, and seven-year durability rating.
HOSUNG B&T (Korea)
This Korean manufacturer features in-house weaving and finishing facilities, specializing in premium jacquard, lining, and nylon twill fabrics. Their materials are engineered for extreme color stability and durability, specifically tailored for global brand programs that require reliable bulk production and recycled material solutions.
Jiangsu Tiancheng Leading Star New Materials Technology
They are redefining circularity with their “Traceability Material”. By extracting protein fibers from leather scraps using self-developed machinery, they transform waste into high-performance materials. This GRS-certified, biodegradable material offers performance that rivals genuine leather in tensile strength and durability while solving the issue of leather industry byproduct pollution.
Kunshan Achilles (China)
A leader in high-durability synthetic solutions, focusing on specialized PVC materials for demanding fashion and footwear applications.
2. The Structural Experts: Advanced Shoe & Fashion Components
The internal architecture and finishing details of a product determine its quality and lifespan.
Dongguan Rhenoflex (China)
Renowned for their Toe Puffs and Counters, they are essential for manufacturers looking for reinforcements that maintain shape under heavy use.
Ceitex Asia
Born from the long-term experience of Ceitex Italia, they provide customized packaging solutions for companies with high-volume manufacturing in Asia. Their range includes tailor-made shoebags, dustbags, and foldable boxes, ensuring quality control from branded samples to final order production.
Honwah Garments Accessories
Established in 1996, Honwah operates a modern 3,200-square-meter production base in Humen, China. They are a vertically integrated specialist, managing everything from dyeing and rope weaving to injection molding and metal workshops, producing essential components like jacquard tapes, hat strings, and zipper heads.
Serafini Srl (Italy)
It represents the “invisible quality” essential for premium manufacturing. This Italian specialist engineers the structural skeleton of footwear and leather goods, providing the volume and durability that define luxury standards. Their extensive catalog features high-performance interlinings, reinforcement tapes, and tear-proof sheets, alongside innovative thermo-adhesive films and microfibers for seamless bonding.
Versalis (Eni Group)
Utilizing global polymer expertise to provide high-grade outsoles and midsoles that balance extreme durability with lightweight performance.
3. Precision Engineering: Fashion Hardware & Trims
For luxury bags and footwear, hardware is the “jewelry” that defines a brand.
Shenzhen Carol Metal (China)
Specializing in high-end components, their range includes everything from Zinc-alloy buckles to luxury components featuring crystals and precious metals.
Jiecheng (Dongguan) Hardware
A one-stop-shop for complex trims, offering decorative beads, sequins, and natural components like bamboo and Mother of Pearl, perfect for the “Natural Materials” trend.
Victory Spring
With over 30 years of experience, they are masters of high-quality zinc alloy hardware. Trusted by iconic global brands like COACH, Michael Kors, and ZARA, they specialize in customized snap hooks, locks, and buckles with a “zero defect” quality objective.
Dongguan Yexin (Kangsheng) Hardware
Operating two modern factories covering over 14,000 square meters, Yexin produces over 5 million pieces monthly. Their full-service approach—integrating R&D, plating, and real-time ERP monitoring—ensures that their hardware for handbags, shoes, and apparel meets the highest international environmental standards, including ISO9001 and GRS certifications.
4. The Sustainability Leaders: Bonded & Bio-Materials
ISA Next-Gen Materials (ISA COSM)
As pioneers in the “Materials+” movement, they are bridging the gap between waste and high fashion with premium Bonded Leather and bio-fabricated alternatives.
Valle Esina S.p.a. (Italy)
Bringing traditional Italian excellence to the eco-sector with high-quality Cellulose and Paper materials designed for the structural needs of eco-conscious footwear.
Intercom Srl (Italy)
As a key player in the “Experience” pillar, Intercom focuses on the invisible but vital elements of assembly. Their water-based adhesives replace traditional solvent glues, allowing manufacturers to maintain high-strength bonds while improving factory air quality and reducing toxic runoff.
Don’t miss the chance to meet global suppliers of fashion manufacturing. Materials+ is held concurrently with APLF and Fashion Access for a complete fashion manufacturing supply chain.
Exhibition Info
Date: 12-14 March 2026
Venue: Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre
Register Now
