During ITMA Asia + CITME 2025, Kohan Textile Journal spoke with Manel Lorente Muixi, Area Sales Manager at Ratera, a leading Spanish manufacturer known globally for its advanced braiding machinery. With decades of expertise, Ratera continues to play a pivotal role in supplying high-precision braiding solutions across multiple industries.
Diverse Applications: From Maritime Ropes to Medical Sutures
According to Lorente, Ratera’s strength lies in its broad and specialized product portfolio.
“We produce braiding machines for very different applications,” he explained. “We have machines to make big mooring ropes for ships, carbon fiber structures for automotive and aerospace, and high-performance solutions for the medical sector such as suture braids. Any kind of rope, cord, or shoelace — we can manufacture the machinery for it.”
At the Singapore edition of ITMA Asia, the company aimed to reconnect with its growing customer base across Asia and Southeast Asia. “So far, we are quite satisfied with the exhibition,” Lorente added. “We have received visitors from almost everywhere in Asia. It has been a good show for us.”
Competing Through Specialization, Not Price
Lorente addressed a long-standing perception in the market that European machines are significantly more expensive than others.
“That may have been true decades ago,” he said. “But today, when you compare Spanish or German machines, the price difference is minimal. The key strategy now in the textile machinery sector is specialization.”
Ratera focuses on high-value, technically demanding segments — from medical applications to climbing ropes and other high-end products. “This specialization is our way to compete worldwide,” he noted.
Innovation as a Survival Strategy
For Ratera, continuous R&D is not optional — it is fundamental.
“Innovation is mandatory nowadays,” Lorente emphasized. “Since we cannot compete on price, we must continuously develop new solutions and stay ahead. Otherwise, new competitors will undercut with lower prices, and you will lose competitiveness. Ongoing innovation is the only way to survive.”
Uncertain Global Outlook, but Steady Confidence
When asked about the global market outlook, Lorente acknowledged today’s unpredictable economic and geopolitical climate.
“The world is unstable — financially, economically, and politically,” he said. “But throughout our history, we have always faced challenges and always survived. I believe we will continue to do so.”
Strong Support for ITMA Asia Singapore
Ratera expressed strong satisfaction with the organization and visitor quality at ITMA Asia + CITME 2025.
“It’s a nice show,” Lorente concluded. “I hope the organizers keep doing this exhibition in the future and that it continues expanding. We look forward to returning and doing more business here.”
