For centuries, the innovative spirit of Switzerland has been repeatedly proven by inventions that span several areas of human experience. The impact on the global textile industry has been one of the most noteworthy countries with continuous and important developments. Swiss textile machinery companies are at the centre of this naturally evolving tradition of creativity. Nowadays, Swiss textile machinery, parts manufacturers and service providers continue this legacy with their commitment to continuous innovation that will affect the textile industry of the future. In retrospect, Swiss inventions have given energy to the global textile industry over and over again. This list includes Caspar Honegger's loom (1842), Georges Audemars' rayon (1855), the shuttle embroidery machine of Isaak Groebli (1863), Karl Friedrich Gegauf's edge trim sewing machine and then Othmar Winterhalter’s zip (1923) and George de Mestral's Velcro fastener (1951). Since the recent past, Swiss Textile Machinery members who are well-known by most readers do not need to emphasize their successful progress. The invention is still a way of life today and the fruits of this philosophy will be shown at the ITMA Asia + CITME 2018, which will be exhibited by 30 members.
Creating customer trust
During the generations of Swiss textile machinery companies, expertise was given with the "inventor gene". Nevertheless, it was first of all to acknowledge customer demands as a priority. Meeting these needs with innovative solutions is the real goal. Cornelia Buchwalder, the general secretary of the association, said, “The innovation experience and legacy definitely gives added value to our Swiss Textile Machinery customers who help them achieve their business success.”
As Industry 4, 0 progresses, more new technologies and standards can be expected. Buchwalder says that; “I am confident that Swiss Textile Machinery members will continue to introduce innovations that will affect the world's textile industry in the future and I look forward to the great expectation of ITMA 2019 in Barcelona.”
