SHIMA SEIKI sets new standards in knitting with latest innovations

Mohammad Swaif Ullah

SHIMA SEIKI, a global leader in computerized knitting technology, unveiled its new Wholegarment knitting machines to the Bangladesh market on February 11 at an event held in Dhaka.

During the event, approximately 200 professionals were participated, and experienced the newly launched models—that aim to revolutionize Bangladesh’s knitting industry.

Mitsuhiro Shima, President of SHIMA SEIKI, expressed his gratitude to Bangladeshi customers for their continued trust in SHIMA SEIKI’s technology. He also acknowledged Pacific Associates Ltd. as a valued partner in the region. Reflecting on the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.

Shima noted that while business slowed down, it also created an opportunity for innovation. “We are continuously developing new products year by year. Wholegarment technology was invented by us, and this year marks the 30th anniversary of its invention. We promise to keep innovating, not only in Wholegarment but also in shaping machines, design systems, and cutting machines” he stated.

Md. Shahabuddin, Managing Director of Pacific Associates Ltd., underscored the significance of the textile and garment industry in Bangladesh’s economic growth.

“SHIMA SEIKI is a globally renowned manufacturer of advanced sweater flat knitting machines, particularly in Wholegarment technology. The textile and garment sectors are key drivers of our economy, and for long-term sustainability, we must embrace cutting-edge technologies to overcome future challenges” he said.

Encouraging industry stakeholders to adopt this innovation, Shahabuddin added, “For the future sustainability of your business, this technology is a must-consider investment.”

Jahirul Alam Chowdhury, Assistant Manager (S&M) at Pacific Associates, highlights on the Wholegarment technology and future industry trends in his presentation, and emphasized that SHIMA SEIKI is not only a leading manufacturer of flat knitting and design systems but also a pioneer in seamless Wholegarment technology, which it introduced in 1995.

Discussing future industry challenges, Jahirul pointed out that Bangladesh's market is increasingly focusing on basic products, leading to intense price competition and labor shortages, especially during peak seasons. He noted that many companies are diversifying their product offerings by developing new styles, sourcing innovative raw materials, and exploring new buyers. “Automation, process optimization, and diversification are key to staying competitive. If we want to achieve our 2030 export goal, we must move towards value-added products, and Wholegarment technology can be a game-changer in this transition,” he emphasized.

Jahirul also shared insights into Pacific Associates’ role in Bangladesh’s textile industry, stating, as a leading textile and garment machine trading company, representing over 30 global brands, with more than 400 employees across six branch offices to give customer quick support. 

SHIMA SEIKI’s Latest Wholegarment Machines

• MACH2XS – The flagship Wholegarment machine capable of producing fully-fashioned garments from head to toe for all ages without the need for linking. It comes in gauges 8, 12, 15, and 18, with needle bed widths of 40, 50, or 60 inches.
• N.SVR 183 – A cost-effective Wholegarment machine ideal for basic fashion garments. It uses a half-gauge technique to accommodate various styles and sizes without linking. Available in 18, 21, and 24 gauge, it has a needle bed width of 183 cm (72 inches) and a 3-system knitting setup with 9 carriers.
• SWG 091 N2 – A compact Wholegarment machine designed for fashion accessories and smaller garments. It supports gauges 5, 7, 10, 13, 15, and 18, with a needle bed width of 90 cm (36 inches) and a 1-system knitting mechanism with 10 carriers.