European textile machinery manufacturers are once again highly evaluating the Japanese market. During the past few years, their sales to Japanese textile manufacturers in the midstream sector have been increasing, as the manufacturers have been renewing their equipment. For European machinery manufacturers, Japan is their most important market among advanced nations together with Italy.
In recent years, vigorous capital investment support including subsidies and tax incentives have accelerated equipment renewal movements among Japanese midstream companies. As a result, the sales of European textile machinery manufacturers remain firm.
For instance, Itema has already sold more than 50 rapier looms (the main model being the R9500) in Japan this year. Cumulative sales of the R9500 since full-scale sales started in Japan in 2013 are to reach approximately 200 looms.
Stäubli is also enjoying strong sales of electronic jacquards. Equipment renewal demand continues to be vigorous in the Imabari towel production district, and the company has installed 40 jacquards in Imabari this year. Orders for industrial material-related applications are also stable, and sales of electronic jacquards are expected to exceed 80.
Bonas, for which Itochu Systech Corporation is its sales agent in Japan, has also increased its sales of electronic jacquards to Imabari.
Furthermore, Japanese textile manufacturers have strict demands and requirements in terms of performance and function, and European textile manufacturers position these feedbacks as important assets for future developments.