Interview: Energy-Efficient Innovation in Fusing Technology
BTJ Talks with Gianluca Benassai, CEO & Chairman of Martin Group
BTJ: Could you briefly introduce Martin Group and your presence in Bangladesh?
Gianluca Benassai:
Thank you. I am Gianluca Benassai, CEO of Martin Group from Italy. We are participating in this edition of GTB with our local team based in Mirpur, where we have established a strong office with sales, technical, and service support staff.
Bangladesh is a very important market for us, and our local presence allows us to better support our customers and respond quickly to their needs.
BTJ: What key innovation are you showcasing at this exhibition?
Gianluca Benassai:
We are presenting a fusing machine with a special shaped feeding belt, which is one of our most innovative solutions.
This machine allows multiple operators to work simultaneously at different input points. For example:
• Several workers can feed fabric from different sections
• Up to six operators can work together on a single machine
This significantly increases productivity, as one machine can perform the work of two to three conventional machines.
BTJ: How does this innovation benefit manufacturers in practical terms?
Gianluca Benassai:
The benefits are quite significant.
Instead of using multiple machines and separate operators, manufacturers can:
• Consolidate operations into one single machine
• Optimize manpower utilization
• Reduce overall operational complexity
This leads to cost savings, improved efficiency, and better workflow management on the production floor.
BTJ: Energy efficiency is a major concern today. How does your machine address this?
Gianluca Benassai:
Absolutely—energy efficiency is crucial.
Our machine is currently the only one in the market that can achieve an average power consumption of approximately 7 kW per hour, which is extremely low.
Since this one machine replaces multiple units, it delivers:
• Significant energy savings
• Lower operational costs
• Strong contribution to sustainability goals
BTJ: How advanced is the technology used in your machines?
Gianluca Benassai:
All our machines are fully digital.
They allow users to:
• Store and recall production programs
• Maintain consistent processing parameters
Additionally, we use an upper pressure system, which ensures uniform and constant pressure on garments—resulting in better quality and consistency.
BTJ: How has the market responded to this machine in Bangladesh?
Gianluca Benassai:
The response has been very positive.
Over the past five to six years, especially after establishing our office in Mirpur, we have sold around 95 units in Bangladesh.
Customers are highly satisfied—they often visit us to share their feedback and express appreciation. This is our greatest achievement.
BTJ: How do you evaluate the business environment in Bangladesh over the last two years?
Gianluca Benassai:
The last two years have been good for us, although they could have been even better.
Global geopolitical conditions have created some uncertainty, which has affected overall business momentum. However, we remain optimistic about the future.
BTJ: What are your expectations for the near future?
Gianluca Benassai:
We believe the market will improve, especially with upcoming political stability and new government initiatives.
There is a general expectation in the industry that business conditions will strengthen. We are fully prepared and ready to grow further as the market rebounds.
BTJ: Thank you for your time.
Gianluca Benassai:
Thank you very much.
