Leading flat knitting solutions provider SHIMA SEIKI MFG., LTD. of Wakayama, Japan, is showcasing next-gen solutions at ITMA ASIA + CITME 2025, held in Singapore. Continuing the concept first introduced at ITMA 2023 in Milan, SHIMA SEIKI presents its exhibition theme “SHIMA SEIKI Reborn.”
“SHIMA SEIKI Reborn” represents a return to the company’s origins—reaffirming its passion for innovation and commitment to redefining the future of knitting technology. This renewed spirit is embodied by the production version of the SES®-R next-generation computerized flat knitting machine, making its highly anticipated debut following its prototype unveiling at ITMA 2023.
Exhibit Overview
SHIMA SEIKI’s 200 sq. meter booth (Hall H5, Stand C301) features an impressive lineup, including the SWG®-XR flagship WHOLEGARMENT® knitting machine and two computerized flat knitting machines—the SES®-R and N.SSR®132—alongside demonstrations of the latest APEXFiz® subscription-based design software and new digital web services.
Featured Products
- SWG®-XR124 18L – WHOLEGARMENT® Knitting Machine
Celebrating the 30th Anniversary of SHIMA SEIKI’s pioneering WHOLEGARMENT® technology, the fifth-generation SWG®-XR redefines standards in speed, efficiency, quality, variety, and reliability. As part of the new R-series developed under “SHIMA SEIKI Reborn,” the SWG®-XR pays tribute to the original SWG®-X, the world’s first 4-needle bed seam-free knitting machine introduced at ITMA 1995.
Equipped with SlideNeedle™ technology on four needle beds, a re-designed spring-type moveable sinker system, and a lightweight 4-system carriage with auto yarn carriers, productivity has increased by more than 25% compared to the previous MACH2®XS. Capable of knitting fine gauge fabrics up to 15 gauge, the SWG®-XR offers unprecedented versatility, supporting a wider variety of yarns and designs including punch lace, variable stitch, and intarsia patterns. The SWG®-XR sets new benchmarks for sustainable, waste-free WHOLEGARMENT® production.
- SES®-R V14G – Next-Generation Computerized Flat Knitting Machine
Building upon the legacy of the groundbreaking SES® series—first launched in the 1980s—the SES®-R challenges today’s status quo in flat knitting. This next-generation shaping machine features an all-new spring-type moveable sinker system with switchable stroke and pause functions for dimensional sinker patterns. Enhanced with auto yarn carriers and loop presser beds for superior plating and inlay knitting, the SES®-R supports larger sizes with a 52-inch (132 cm) knitting width and is showcased in 14 gauge at ITMA Asia.
- N.SSR®132 V14G – New Cost-Efficient Computerized Flat Knitting Machine
The N.SSR®132 extends SHIMA SEIKI’s renowned N.SSR® series, offering exceptional cost performance without compromising productivity or quality. Operating at speeds up to 1.2 m/sec with the R2CARRIAGE® system for quick returns, the N.SSR®132 integrates proven SHIMA SEIKI innovations such as DSCS® digital stitch control, spring-type moveable sinker system, and stitch presser technology. With its 52-inch knitting width and optional sub-rollers, it provides flexibility for diverse market needs while ensuring the high reliability and user-friendliness of Made-in-Japan quality.
Digital Solutions and Software
- SDS® KnitPaint-Online – New Knit Design Software
The new SDS® KnitPaint-Online software brings SHIMA SEIKI’s trusted knit programming capabilities to a standalone platform. Retaining the familiar KnitPaint functions and enhanced with new design and planning features, the software enables efficient knit data creation, machine programming, and production support.
- APEXFiz® – Subscription-Based Design Software
APEXFiz® supports the entire creative process from planning and design to 3D virtual sampling. Its ultra-realistic fabric simulations reduce time, cost, and material waste while enabling on-demand production through digital integration between design and manufacturing. Demonstrations at ITMA Asia showcase its latest generative AI functions and integration with SHIMA SEIKI’s web services, reinforcing its role in promoting sustainable, digitally transformed fashion production.
Digital Web Services
yarnbank® – Digital Yarn Sourcing
yarnbank®, the world’s first digital yarn sourcing platform, allows users to search and download actual yarn data from global suppliers for use in APEXFiz® simulations. This ensures that virtual samples correspond to yarns available for real-world production, digitally connecting the entire supply chain from yarn producers to apparel manufacturers.
- SHIMA Datamall™ – Digital Content Platform
SHIMA Datamall™ provides access to over 8,700 digital assets, including knit data, design data, and 3D model patterns. Supporting both APEXFiz® users and SHIMA SEIKI machine operators, it enables efficient production planning and promotes a shift toward sustainable, data-driven manufacturing.
Knit Samples and Presentations
Approximately 140 knit samples are exhibited, showcasing the potential of SHIMA SEIKI’s technologies across applications such as fashion, footwear, bags, and accessories. A special collaboration with Groz-Beckert KG highlights a new product category—a seam-free WHOLEGARMENT® knitted baseball cap produced on the SWG®091N2 machine using the original SlideNeedle™.
A large central display presents video solutions emphasizing how APEXFiz® empowers factories to make proactive design proposals—reversing traditional supply chain roles and enabling differentiation for manufacturers in Asia and South Asia seeking to add value for global brands.
About SHIMA SEIKI
SHIMA SEIKI MFG., LTD. of Wakayama, Japan, is a world leader in computerized flat knitting technology. The company pioneered WHOLEGARMENT® seam-free knitting, enabling entire garments to be produced directly on the machine without sewing. Since its commercial debut in 1995, SHIMA SEIKI has maintained global leadership in this field with 30 years of experience and over 2,900 patents and patents pending worldwide.
Through its SDS®-ONE APEX systems and APEXFiz® software, SHIMA SEIKI continues to advance digital transformation and sustainability in the fashion supply chain—minimizing waste, reducing lead times, and realizing production based on true demand.
Source: SHIMA SEIKI