Spring Canton Fair 2024 Trends
Travel Sentry News | April 2024
Spring Canton Fair 2024 Visit and Trends
Photo credit: China Foreign Trade Centre
The Canton Fair, also known as the China Import and Export Fair, is an international trade fair held in the spring and autumn seasons each year since the spring of 1957 in Canton (Guangzhou), Guangdong, China. It is China's oldest, largest, and most representative global trade fair.
The 2024 Spring Canton Fair was a success, with a record-breaking 246,000 buyers from 215 countries attending, a 24.5% increase from last year. As always, it was an excellent opportunity for the Travel Sentry team to meet with many licensees and check industry trends.
LOCK MANUFACTURERS
Four of our top licensed lock manufacturers were present, and it was great to see how they had invested in their booths:
- Yifeng Manufacturing
- Jingyu Precision Industrial Co., Ltd
- Plum Blossom
- Jiaxing Tianlong Lock Manufacturing Co.,Ltd.
TRENDS BREAKDOWN
From the biggest names in the industry to smaller factories, it was impressive to see how much the quality of products on show had increased. Reflecting the interests of most markets, we noticed that the share of hard-shell suitcases had increased significantly from previous shows.
Another exciting development was the standardization of front pockets in hard-shell product carry-ons and their presence on larger sizes like trunks and check-in luggage.
We were also impressed with the creativity of part suppliers; for instance, when extended, suitcase handles revealed different bold pops of color. Additionally, the frequency of micro-function features, such as cup holders, bag hooks, and cell phone shelves, enhance convenience for consumers in response to the evolving needs of modern travelers.
New color trends included neon yellow and hot coral, and the prevalence of two-toned luggage was significant.
While there were fewer PC film suppliers, those present focussed on more luxurious finishes, improving visual appeal, enabling a more custom design, and improving durability due to their scratch-resistant properties.
Sustainability was again a prominent booth theme at this year's Canton Fair, with significant OEMs showcasing their commitment to environmentally friendly manufacturing processes. Sustainable development continues to be a focus of the entire industry, with nearly every luggage brand introducing environmentally friendly designs or using sustainable materials.
Find out more about visiting the Canton Fair and learn business travel tips for buyers.