NEW YORK–The initial Home Textiles Fabric Sourcing Expo opened this morning at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center.

Owned and operated by Messe Frankfurt, the expo will run from today through July 15. A statement from Messe Frankfurt said the show—which is running alongside Texworld and the International Apparel Sourcing Show—is a response to the lack of a U.S. show that focuses on fabric and material sourcing. Observing that there are several trade events that present finished home textiles, Messe Frankfurt said, “The launch of Home Textiles Fabric Sourcing Expo is a first step toward filling this void and providing opportunities for Messe Frankfurt’s global customer base.”

One exhibitor, Lenzing of Austria, believes that this first show could develop into a larger resource for fabrics. “I do believe this show will further develop,” said Susanne Jary, head of home-textiles marketing for Lenzing. “The mills that have come here and the seminar programs will serve as a draw for more exhibitors.” Jary added that she felt Messe Frankfurt could also expand the number of countries involved in the show as well.