Shima Seiki to Debut Cheaper SES-R Standard Flat Knitter in Shanghai

Shima Seiki will debut a more economical SES-R Standard computerised flat knitting machine at ITMA Asia + CITME 2026, running 20–24 November at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (NECC) in Shanghai. The Wakayama-based manufacturer confirmed the new variant extends its R-generation technology to a broader range of manufacturers — a pricing-tier move aimed squarely at cost-sensitive knitters in Asia.

For sourcing teams tracking capital equipment spend on knitwear capacity, the stand (Hall 4.1, Booth D11) covers the full spectrum: entry-level economics, mid-range versatility and premium seamless production.

What machines will Shima Seiki show?

The centrepiece SES-R builds on the legacy of the pioneering SES series and features a newly developed sinker system (the component that holds loops as needles form stitches). That system delivers enhanced three-dimensional shaping, enabling efficient production of complex knitted structures across multiple industries. Shima Seiki will demonstrate the SES-R in 14-gauge (needles per inch) and the new SES-R Standard in 16-gauge configurations.

Also on display:

• N.SSR132 — introduced at ITMA Asia + CITME 2025 in Singapore, with a 52-inch (132 cm) knitting width suited to larger garment sizes; demonstrated in 7-gauge. The company reported particular interest from manufacturers in South and Southeast Asia, where its competitive economics and versatility were well received.
• MACH2XS153 — four-needle-bed WHOLEGARMENT machine with proprietary SlideNeedle technology for fine-gauge complete-garment knitwear using all needles; demonstrated in 8-gauge.
• SWG061N2 Mini — compact 15-gauge seamless machine positioned for technical knitted structures, specialised applications and smaller-scale production.

What does the digital layer change?

The machinery demonstrations run alongside SDS KnitPaint-Online knitting software and APEXFiz 3D design software, which provides realistic fabric simulation and virtual sampling. Shima Seiki positions the integration of virtual sampling with its knitting hardware as a route to shorter development times, less physical sampling, lower material consumption and reduced unnecessary inventory — supporting demand-driven manufacturing.

That argument matters for buyers under pressure to cut sample rounds and deadstock. If a supplier can evaluate designs and knitted structures digitally before production, the sampling budget and lead time both shrink — and the waste reduction claim becomes an operational fact rather than a marketing line.

The company pioneered complete garment knitting with the commercial launch of WHOLEGARMENT technology in 1995. The process knits an entire garment directly on the machine with no subsequent linking or sewing, streamlining manufacturing and cutting material waste. Founded in 1962, Shima Seiki has built an integrated offer spanning computerised flat knitting machines, design systems and virtual sampling.

Everything appears under the continuing 'Shima Seiki Reborn' banner, the company's framing for combining flat knitting advances with digital tools in pursuit of efficient, flexible and sustainable production.

The sourcing decision here is straightforward: if you're specifying knit capacity for 2027, Shanghai in November is where you benchmark the price-performance gap between the SES-R tiers — and where the SES-R Standard could shift entry economics for seamless-capable flat knitting.