Knitwear
Japanese flat knitting machine manufacturer Shima Seiki will showcase its latest knitting technologies and digital solutions at ITMA Asia + CITME 2026, taking place from 20-24 November at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (NECC) in Shanghai, China.
Exhibiting under its continuing ‘Shima Seiki Reborn’ concept, the Wakayama-based company will present its latest R-generation machines, including a new, more economical version of its SES-R computerised flat knitting machine, which will make its debut at the exhibition.
The Reborn concept reflects Shima Seiki’s renewed commitment to innovation, combining advances in flat knitting technology with integrated digital solutions designed to support more efficient, flexible and sustainable textile manufacturing.
A central attraction will be the SES-R, which builds on the legacy of the company’s pioneering SES series. Featuring a newly developed sinker system, the machine offers enhanced three-dimensional shaping capabilities, enabling efficient production of complex knitted structures and patterns for applications across multiple industries.
Alongside the existing SES-R model, Shima Seiki will introduce a more cost-effective SES-R Standard version, extending the technology’s accessibility to a broader range of manufacturers. The company will demonstrate the SES-R in 14-gauge and the SES-R Standard in 16-gauge configurations.
Also on display will be the N.SSR132 computerised flat knitting machine, introduced at ITMA Asia + CITME 2025 in Singapore. The machine attracted particular interest from manufacturers in South and Southeast Asia, where its competitive economics and versatility were well received.
Featuring a 52-inch (132 cm) knitting width, the N.SSR132 provides flexibility for producing larger garment sizes and will be demonstrated in a 7-gauge configuration.
Shima Seiki’s established WHOLEGARMENT seamless knitting technology will be represented by two machines, highlighting the versatility of complete garment manufacturing for both fashion and technical textile applications.
The MACH2XS153, featuring four needle beds and the company’s proprietary SlideNeedle technology, enables the production of high-quality, fine-gauge WHOLEGARMENT knitwear using all needles. The machine will be demonstrated in an 8-gauge configuration.
Meanwhile, the compact SWG061N2 Mini, exhibited in 15-gauge, offers opportunities for seamless knitting across a wide range of products, including technical knitted structures. Its compact design and economical operation make it particularly relevant for manufacturers exploring specialised applications and smaller-scale production.
Digital solutions
Shima Seiki will complement its machinery demonstrations with a comprehensive range of digital solutions covering design, development and production.
These include SDS KnitPaint-Online knitting software and APEXFiz 3D design software, which provides realistic fabric simulation and virtual sampling capabilities. The company will also demonstrate services available through its Shima Seiki Online Services platform.
The integration of virtual sampling with advanced knitting technology is an important element of the company’s strategy to reduce development times, minimise physical sampling and improve production efficiency.
By enabling manufacturers to evaluate designs and knitted structures digitally before production, APEXFiz can help reduce material consumption, development costs and unnecessary inventory while supporting more responsive, demand-driven manufacturing.
Shima Seiki has pioneered complete garment knitting since the commercial introduction of its WHOLEGARMENT technology in 1995. The technology enables an entire garment to be knitted directly on the machine without subsequent linking or sewing, offering opportunities to streamline manufacturing and reduce material waste.
Founded in 1962, the company has developed an integrated approach to textile production, encompassing computerised flat knitting machines, design systems, virtual sampling and associated manufacturing technologies.
At ITMA Asia + CITME 2026, Shima Seiki aims to demonstrate how these technologies can work together to support smart, speedy and sustainable production while addressing changing requirements across the global knitting and textile industries.
Visitors can find Shima Seiki in Hall 4.1, Booth D11, at the NECC in Shanghai from 20-24 November 2026.
