In a development that will provide momentum to the modernisation of the Indian textile industry, A.T.E. and SMIT S.r.l. have entered into an exclusive partnership for the promotion of SMIT's advanced rapier looms in India. 

SMIT, a weaving machine manufacturer based in Italy since 1938, is globally renowned for its advanced rapier looms. A.T.E. is a leader and a one window solution provider in textile engineering across the textile value chain, with 80 years of experience.

SMIT rapier looms are reputed for their versatility, high productivity, superior quality fabric production, and capability to handle a wide range of weft material and yarn counts. Other notable features of SMIT weaving machines include the custom made self-retaining grippers which are easily adjustable and remain stable while weaving. SMIT rapier looms include rapier weft insertion optimised for home textiles, garments, terry towels, and customised solutions to produce special technical fabrics.

2FAST

FAST stands for Flexible Advanced Shuttleless Technology. SMIT's high speed weaving machine 2FAST can handle diverse fabric applications such as apparels, home textiles, and technical textiles. 2FAST unleashes the full potential of free flight of the rapier and helps achieve the best fabric construction at the highest speed with the lowest stress for yarn - thanks to the longest beating time among machines of this kind! 2FAST is the most compact loom in the market today, with simple and low, strain-free access to the front of the loom. Additionally, the 'robust design' methodology employed by SMIT guarantees the longest machine life and the lowest spare parts consumption.

A.T.E. is committed to provide the latest technology solutions to the Indian textile mills and its partnership with SMIT is yet another step in this direction.

"This partnership fills a major product gap of looms in our portfolio. With our deep domain knowledge and our excellent relationship with customers, I am confident that we will be able to strengthen SMIT's presence in India. We are excited to present SMIT to the Indian market from May 1", said Navin Agrawal, business head, Fabric Forming Division. He added that A.T.E. also plans to offer comprehensive services for SMIT machines that include after-sales service support, an electronic centre, stock and supply of spare parts, and training.

"We are very proud to announce the partnership between SMIT and A.T.E. Enterprises Private Limited. A.T.E.'s decades of industry expertise, undisputed market leadership, and professional team of specialists will empower SMIT and SANTEX RIMAR GROUP to rise to new challenges and together reach new heights in the textile landscape. Looking forward to a fruitful and long-lasting partnership, we are sure that with A.T.E., we will take full advantage of the restart of the Indian and global economies after the pandemic challenge," said Enrico Valsecchi, sales director, SMIT.