MEDINA, Ohio— March 25, 2026 — Fire-Dex, North America’s fastest-growing manufacturer of head-to-toe PPE for first responders, announced that UL Solutions has verified particulate ingress results for its AeroFlex® turnout system under UL Verification 1641. The verification confirms performance to NFPA Particle Inward Leakage testing requirements when the ensemble is worn in a specific configuration.
“Particulate barriers in pant/coat interfaces add protection from contaminants, but the trade-off is that they can limit breathability,” said Todd Herring, V.P. of Product Innovation and Strategy, Fire-Dex. “AeroFlex is designed differently, with vents that help hot air escape from inside turnouts but that also keep particulates out.
“That gives departments a clearer path when weighing particulate protection and heat management inside the coat, because our UL-verified system addresses both in one ensemble. This design supports breathability, wearer comfort, and operational mobility while maintaining required certified performance.”
The evaluated configuration included the AeroFlex coat with a properly engaged SCBA, along with AeroFlex pants equipped with the optional particulate-blocking barrier. Results are published by UL Solutions at verify.ul.com/verifications/1641.
Testing used a controlled particulate chamber where a firefighter performed prescribed actions for 20 minutes, then researchers assessed skin contamination after the gear was carefully doffed. UL’s verification posting reports less than 1 microgram exposure on the wearer across the ensemble.The findings confirm that a properly engaged SCBA helps seal the coat-to-pant interface, preventing particulate migration into the torso area even without an added particulate barrier in the coat. The optional particulate-blocking barrier in the pants provided added lower body protection.
Revolutionizing Firefighter Safety
The AeroFlex turnout system is built around zoned breathability. It places VaporLite® breathable composite panels where heat and sweat concentrate—side seams, armpits, inner thighs and behind the knees—then integrates AeroVent® Technology within those zones to move warm humid air outward under pressure, with an integrated particulate-blocking element in the vent.
Adding a particulate barrier layer in a structural coat can improve contaminant blocking, but it can also restrict moisture vapor transport through the garment. When that pathway is choked, heat and humidity are more likely to build inside the coat which can increase heat burden during work.
AeroFlex was engineered for that exact challenge—as the wearer moves, airflow inside the garment increases and cooling improves.
To learn more about how AeroFlex combines breathability and particulate-blocking protection, visit firedex.com/aeroflex.
SHANGHAI — March 25, 2026 — Yarn Expo Spring 2026 wrapped up successfully on 13 March, as a record-high of over 600 exhibitors from 12 countries and regions welcomed over 25,000 visitors from 113 countries and regions. Held across 27,000 sqm in Hall 8.2 of the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai), the fair spotlighted the textile industry’s accelerating shift toward a lower-impact, more functional future.
More than 25,000 visitors attended the fair – a 7% increase overall compared to the previous Spring Edition Photo: Messe Frankfurt
Exhibitors showcased eco-friendly organic, regenerated and recycled yarns and fibres, plus innovative options like sweat-resistant and high-performance fibres. Beyond the show floor, a strong fringe programme added depth to the experience, giving fairgoers practical market insights and fresh opportunities to build quality business connections.
Speaking at the fair’s close, Ms Wilmet Shea, General Manager of Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd, said: “This year’s Yarn Expo Spring grew in scale and relevance, achieving its highest exhibitor numbers to date, and a wider array of innovative, responsible yarn and fibre solutions.
Strong turnout on both the exhibitor and visitor sides reflects market confidence in the platform, and the feedback from participants has been highly encouraging. The fringe programme featured a range of upcoming textile trends and new-to-market yarns and fibres, empowering buyers to turn ideas into business opportunities.”
Global reach and diverse industry participation
The visitor figures – up by 7% compared to the previous edition – underscore the fair’s role as a key sourcing hub in Asia, with top visiting countries and regions including Hong Kong, India, Japan, Korea, Taiwan, Türkiye, US and the Vietnam. Meanwhile, exhibitors from China, India, Pakistan, Taiwan and other markets represented a balanced mix of established and emerging suppliers, with a rising focus on recycled, regenerated and next-generation fibres.
Across the International Zone and seven product-focused zones – Cashmere Yarn, Cotton Yarn, Chemical Fibre, Fancy Yarn, Linen Yarn, Silk Yarn and Wool Yarn – the fair presented a broad spectrum of conventional and specialty solutions. Products with certifications including BCI, GOTS and GRS were prominent, including recycled polyester for activewear and organic cotton for low-impact apparel. New exhibitors like Toray Industries Inc (Japan), debuting its Premium GOUSEN select high-function fibres overseas, and Circ Inc (USA), with its polycotton-to-polyester/lyocell recycling, drew strong interest among domestic buyers. Various Indian exhibitors presented water-saving Kasturi Cotton, while NORGIIS GROUP (UK) offered premium air-jet and ring-spun cottons from Uzbekistan, Türkiye and Turkmenistan, further expanding the sustainable offerings.
Complementing the exhibitor displays, a series of innovation-focused fringe events – such as Tongkun China Fibres Fashion Trends 2026/2027 Show and From Textile to Textile, Powered by Enzymatic Renewal – spotlighted forward-looking applications, trends and circular textile strategies, with the presentations and displays equipping buyers with insights into market directions and sustainable material integration.
Exhibitors’ experiences
“Yarn Expo is a vital platform drawing strong interest from Korean, Japanese, Italian, Portuguese and Chinese buyers alike. We specialise in value-added blended yarns for high-end knitting and weaving. Sustainability is embedded in our DNA, we target premium manufacturers seeking innovative developments and R&D. China’s market is highly competitive, but this fair is helping us connect with the right local agents and partners. Feedback has been positive, delivering real potential for our business growth here.”
Mr Sm Irfan Muneer, Director, Din Industries, Pakistan
“We’re a US textile-to-textile recycler turning polycotton waste into polyester chips and lyocell/viscose pulp, targeting downstream spinners. This is our first time exhibiting at Yarn Expo. It’s a very good platform to enter the Chinese market. We’re pleased with China’s strong sustainability focus, with high T-to-T awareness, rapid recycling plant scale-ups, abundant bio-based solutions, and open business mindset. The fair’s scale and key players make it ideal for connections.”
Ms Kathleen Rademan, Vice President of Commercial Strategy, Circ Inc, United States
“This is Toray’s first time at Yarn Expo Spring, showcasing chemical fibre highlights like GIGADULL and NANODESIGN® for world-leading UV protection and invisible sweat stains, perfect for sportswear and daily use. Sustainability focuses include recycled PET and acrylic from waste, keeping top quality. The fair draws mostly Chinese buyers, plus those from Italy, Türkiye, Sri Lanka, India, Europe, and the US. We’ve made many contacts with positive responses and feel optimistic about China’s yarn and fibre potential. We’ll definitely return next year.”
Mr Hiroki Shimada, Filament Department Manager, Toray Industries Inc, Japan
“We’ve been part of this fair since 2005, as China is a vital market for Indian cotton. This year, our pavilion features around 30 Indian companies, with strong interest in cotton yarn and fabric. Sustainability is a key focus, through initiatives like Kasturi Cotton, our premium Indian cotton branding programme with traceability and farmer training. Yarn Expo remains an important platform for connecting Indian exporters with Chinese buyers and driving long-term business growth.”
Mr Murali Balkrishna, Joint Director, Texprocil, India
“This fair is a key showcase and industry trendsetter. This time, we brought ready-stock yarns for sweaters, knit blankets, and functional products, covering wool blends, cashmere, and more than 20 self-developed styles in semi-worsted and coarse wool. We offer responsibly certified wool and recycled polyester materials, stable partnerships with brands like Zara, and full supply chain traceability. This platform stands out with high footfall and diverse visitors, helping us connect with potential clients in circular knitting and weaving to expand our business horizons.”
Mr Rex Lao, Sales Manager Trade Department VI, Tongxiang Hengqi Textile Co Ltd, China
“We brought together four of our subsidiaries to exhibit at Yarn Expo Spring 2026, debuting three themed zones for sustainability, functionality, and heat-management, to showcase nearly 60 innovative chemical fibre products and our full industry chain. We aim to reshape our brand and empower the textile sector toward green, low-carbon transformation. The booth attracted strong visitor interest focused on new products and trends, including overseas buyers from India, Pakistan, the Middle East, and Europe. This platform’s maturity and strong organisation provide vital support for our market expansion.”
Mr Wu Haipeng, Customer Manager, Nanjing Representative Office, East China, China Petrochemical Corporation, China
Visitors’ comments
“We are a young Thai fashion brand specialising in unique, one-of-a-kind clothing. This is my first time at Yarn Expo; I’m here to source special fabrics, yarns, and accessories that reflect our creative style. We’ve found inspiring raw materials and potential partners that we don’t have in Thailand, sparking new ideas for our collections. It’s impressive to see China’s strong production capabilities and creative energy all in one place.”
Mr Andrey Belkn, Owner, Unihorse, Thailand
“We’re an Australian mid-to-premium brand focusing on sustainable apparel made from bamboo viscose, lyocell, and hemp. We’re sourcing ethical and eco-friendly fibres, especially lyocell from bamboo, and are impressed by China’s progress in closed-loop viscose innovation. This fair exceeds expectations – it is much larger and more diverse than imagined, with an amazing range of sustainable materials that truly open our minds to new possibilities. It’s been an inspiring and eye-opening experience for our brand.”
Ms Pixie Rose, Managing Director, Bodypeace Bamboo Clothing, Australia
“I focus on sourcing materials that balance comfort, quality, and sustainability. At this fair, it’s impressive to see how far suppliers have advanced in eco-friendly yarns. Recycled polyester and bio-based fibres now meet high standards, aligning with our sustainability goals. The fair also introduced functional yarns such as anti-pilling and UV-resistant types, which spark fresh ideas for our home textile collections.”
Mr Chen Bo, Purchasing Manager, NITORI, China
“Yarn Expo Spring 2026 has been very rewarding for us, offering fresh ideas for developing fabrics for pet products. We discovered high-quality recycled and organic-certified yarns, as well as functional varieties with softness, durability, and antibacterial properties – exactly what we need for pet beds and apparel. The fair’s broad supplier base and efficient networking helped us identify reliable partners and new material directions that support our eco-friendly product goals.”
Ms Shi Huizhen, Sales Director, Maoxin Industry (Shanghai) Co., Ltd, China
Yarn Expo Spring was organised by Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd and the Sub-Council of Textile Industry, CCPIT. The fair was held alongside Intertextile Shanghai Apparel Fabrics – Spring Edition, Intertextile Shanghai Home Textiles – Spring Edition, CHIC and PH Value, with the resultant synergy allowing exhibitors and buyers to maximise their business opportunities.
For further information, please visit: www.yarn-expo-spring.com
STOCKHOLM, Sweden — March 25, 2026 — In response to growing demand for its full textile and finished product line automation services, ACG Kinna – a member of TMAS, the Swedish textile machinery association – has inaugurated a 1,000-square-metre expansion at its headquarters in Skene, Sweden.
The new plant and inauguration.
“Following a number of acquisitions in recent years, we needed to either relocate or expand, and opted to remain here in Skene,” explains Sales and Marketing Manager Tomas Aspenskog. “The expansion is directly connected to our existing headquarters and is enabling us to relocate some staff to this centralised location, as well as providing plenty of additional specialised assembly space. It will improve logistics for us and simplify and speed up operations for the company, our suppliers and our customers.”
Automation benefits
ACG Kinna had a record year in 2025 as manufacturers of pillows and duvets for the home furnishings sector are increasingly recognising the benefits of full automation.
Under its trademarked slogan ‘Complete Process – One Supplier’, the company has pioneered the development of complete robotic pillow lines from the handling and opening of filling material to sewing, digital quality control and packaging.
In parallel, ACG Kinna is also now making further inroads into the finished filter bag market and will be demonstrating its latest advances in this field at the forthcoming Filtech 2026 exhibition in Cologne, Germany from June 30th to July 2nd.
“Our modular solutions enable customers to be more flexible and faster in adapting specific parts of a production line to meet new demands, and also to grow over time,” says Aspenskog. “There are also many benefits for manufacturers in dealing with only one project leader, contact person, supplier, freight handler and installation team. Despite all that’s happening in the world, the market for our services is buzzing and we are seeing a lot of activity, especially across Europe and in North America.”
Acquisitions growth
Part of the highly diversified and still family owned ACG Group since 2013, ACG Kinna significantly expanded its services five years ago, with the acquisition of Finland-based Nowo Machinery, the long-established specialist in technologies for fibre and raw material processing and manufacturer of the highly successful Nowo pillow filling system and ball fibre machines.
More recently, the acquisitions of two other Swedish companies, EyeTech, a developer of machine vision solutions for manufacturing, warehouse and factory automation, and Styrteknik Europe, a manufacturer of industrial sewing machines for home furnishings, has further expanded ACG Kinna’s scope of offered services.
“Automation has become a must for a number of reasons,” says TMAS Secretary General Therese Premler-Andersson. “Product traceability, flexibility and local production, in addition to new trade regulations, are now driving the market and given the challenge of finding skilled operators and constantly increasing costs, manufacturers are looking for simpler systems that will save on resources and boost productivity wherever possible. ACG’s latest expansion follows those made by other TMAS members operating in similar fields and providing the tools for highly sophisticated 21st Century production.”
Posted: March 25, 2026
Source: TMAS, the Swedish textile machinery association / ACG Kinna Automatic AB
WASHINGTON, DC — March 25, 2026 — INDA, the Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry, applauds the U.S. Senate for passing the Wastewater Infrastructure Pollution Prevention and Environmental Safety (WIPPES) Act (S. 1092).
The WIPPES Act, which creates national standards for “Do Not Flush” labeling for non-flushable wipes, cleared the Senate floor on March 22, 2026. The House version of the bill, H.R. 2269, previously passed the U.S. House on a voice vote in June 2025. The Senate version will now move back to the House for consideration.
This bipartisan legislation is intended to address the growing problem of sewer system clogs caused by improper disposal of consumer wipes that are not intended to be disposed of in toilets. This federal solution is the result of a years-long industry collaboration with wastewater operators, which has resulted in the passage of similar legislation in seven states. The WIPPES Act will create a national standard based on existing state laws to ensure non-flushable wipes will carry prominent “Do Not Flush” labeling on packaging.
“INDA has championed this legislation for the past several years, and we are encouraged to see it pass out of the Senate. With the House having passed its version of the bill last year, we now have more momentum behind this legislation than ever. We extend our thanks to the bill sponsors, our industry and wastewater partners, and INDA members as we take another step forward to make “Do Not Flush” labeling nationwide,” said Wes Fisher, Director of Government Affairs.
The WIPPES Act lead sponsors in the Senate are Senator Jeff Merkley (D-OR) and Senator Susan Collins (R-ME), and the companion bill was introduced in the House by Representative Lisa McClain (R-MI) and Representative Kevin Mullin (D-CA).
Posted: March 25, 2026
Source: INDA, the Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry
FRANKFURT AM MAIN, Germany — March 24, 2026 — EU defense spending reached a record level of around €381 billion in 2025. The importance of textile innovation in this context is underscored by the European Defence Fund’s 2026 Work Programme, which identifies “smart and multifunctional textiles” as a dedicated priority area. Techtextil translates this demand into industrial practice. From 21 to 24 April 2026, more than 10 per cent of over 1,500 exhibitors in Frankfurt am Main will present material innovations for protective textiles.
For product developers and OEM manufacturers, the performance of personal protective equipment is determined deep within the textile value chain. Materials are required that deliver ballistic protection, flame resistance and exceptional durability – without compromising on comfort and ergonomics. At the same time, regulations such as PFAS restrictions are increasing demand for alternatives to water-, oil- and dirt-repellent finishes.
For procurement managers, buyers and technical leads at system providers, industrial feasibility is coming into sharper focus. They need market-ready materials and textile components that can be processed in compliance with standards, reproducibly and at reliable volumes – for example in ballistic protection systems or CBRN protective clothing.
Techtextil offers decision-makers from the defence sector the market overview they need to position themselves strategically in the growing market for protective textiles. More than 150 specialised exhibitors form the technological backbone: from fibre innovations for developers and manufacturers to finished materials for procurement. The Lenzing Group, for example, presents inherently flame-retardant cellulose fibres that embed heat and flame protection directly into the fibre. Another example is HS Hyosung Advanced Materials, showcasing high-performance yarns made from synthetic polymers.
At the same time, Texprocess, with around 200 exhibitors in Hall 8.0, bridges the gap to finishing and industrial processing. Together, the two events bring together more than 1,700 exhibitors at the Frankfurt exhibition grounds.
“Requirements for protective fabrics are becoming increasingly similar across many fields of application: low weight, high durability, thermal comfort, and reproducible processing,” explains Lotje Oosterlinck, Product Manager Workwear at Concordia Textiles. “What is becoming decisive, therefore, is the ability to develop material solutions across different protection domains and to transfer them into industrial processes tailored to specific applications.”
Industrial Scalability: From Fiber To Protective Systems
In the “Performance Apparel Textiles” area (Hall 9.0), around 150 exhibitors bring together concrete applications for protective clothing – showcased in the live format “Performance Apparels on Stage”. The foundation is provided by the new “Textile Chemicals & Dyes” segment: more than 30 exhibitors connect chemical processes directly with textile applications.
Key mechanical components for these protective solutions are also supplied by specialists such as Güth & Wolf GmbH, JUMBO-Textil GmbH & Co. KG, and Otto Stockmayer & Sohn GmbH, offering high-performance narrow textiles, webbings and knitted fabrics.
“In protective textiles, market relevance is not determined by a new fibre or finish alone. Particularly in demanding applications, testability, reproducibility and the reliable transfer into industrial processes are becoming the true benchmarks of innovation,” says Dr. Heike Illing-Günther, Managing Director of the Saxon Textile Research Institute.
The Techtextil Forum provides the technological framework for this industrial scaling. Featuring practical insights from NASA experts and focusing on topics such as “Textile Intelligence” and “Resilient Textiles”, the platform addresses the industry’s operational needs: smart functionalities, material resilience and the rapid transition from concept to scalable application.
Techtextil and Texprocess will take place from April 21 to 24, 2026.
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — March 24, 2026 — With just over five weeks remaining, anticipation is building for Textiles Recycling Expo USA, taking place April 29–30, 2026 at the Charlotte Convention Center.
As North America’s first dedicated exhibition and conference focused exclusively on textile recycling, the event is set to bring together the full value chain at a pivotal moment for the industry. Registration is free, and available for attendees here.
Now entering its final countdown phase, the Expo has confirmed over 85 exhibitors, showcasing a wide range of solutions across sorting, shredding, mechanical and chemical recycling, and advanced material processing. Confirmed exhibitors include: Valvan, PICVISA, SSI Shredding, Looptworks, Gneuss, Recover, Supercircle, Matoha, Margasa, Texpin Makine, Unifi, Allertex of America, Senseneo Inc., Upcycle Fiber, Cycla LLC, Konica Minolta, Reju, Debrand, Pierret, Circ, Syre, Valerius, Antex, Bank & Vogue, and many more.
The conference program is now live, featuring a strong line-up of speakers from leading global brands and organisations. Attendees can expect insights from representatives of New Balance, lululemon, Eileen Fisher, the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, WM, Goodwill Industries International, The Footwear Collective, Matoha, Unifi, Textile Exchange, University of Delaware, Reju, Samsara Eco, National Safety Apparel, Filogic and many more. Covering critical topics including policy, infrastructure, innovation, scalable circular solutions, key themes of 2026 include:
Across two days, the event will provide a unique platform for industry professionals to explore the latest technologies, engage in high-level discussions, and build meaningful connections across textiles, recycling, sustainability, manufacturing, retail, and policy sectors.
As momentum continues to build, industry professionals are encouraged to secure their place and be part of the conversation shaping the future of textile recycling in North America.
Registration is free and now open.
To register and find out more, visit: www.textilesrecyclingexpo.com/usa
COLUMBIA, S.C. — March 19, 2026 — United Composite Materials, LLC (United Composite Materials), an advanced carbon composite materials manufacturer, today announced it selects Greenville County for its first South Carolina operation. The company’s $17.5 million investment will create 50 new jobs.
The company’s new site is located at 1446 S. Buncombe Road in Greer. United Composite Materials will use the property’s existing two facilities as specialized manufacturing plants to supply the North American sports and leisure composite markets with advanced carbon composite material.
Operations are expected to be online in July 2026. Individuals interested in joining the United Composite Materials team should visit readySC’s recruitment website for more information.
The Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved job development credits related to the project. The council also awarded a $250,000 Set-Aside grant to Greenville County to assist with the costs of building improvements.
“We are excited to establish our first South Carolina manufacturing facility in Greenville County. This strategic investment allows us to be closer to our North American customers and leverage the region’s exceptional workforce. We look forward to becoming an integral part of the Greer community.” -United Composite Materials, LLC CEO Yunho Cho
“From its site availability to its skilled workforce, South Carolina leads the way in advanced manufacturing. United Composite Materials’ $17.5 million investment in Greenville County reflects the business-friendly environment found in the Palmetto State.” -Gov. Henry McMaster
“With the creation of 50 new jobs, United Composite Materials’ decision to establish operations in Greenville County is a win for our state. Economic development in key industries like advanced manufacturing supports South Carolina’s continued growth and success.” -Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III
“We are excited to welcome United Composite Materials, LLC to Greenville County and the city of Greer. This investment highlights the collaborative environment we have built to support business growth and reinforces Greenville County’s importance to South Carolina’s economy. We look forward to partnering with United Composite Materials as they grow and succeed here.” -Greenville County Council Chairman Benton Blount
FIVE FAST FACTS
United Composite Materials, LLC (United Composite Materials) selects Greenville County for its first South Carolina operation.
The company’s $17.5 million investment will create 50 new jobs.
United Composite Materials is an advanced carbon composite materials manufacturer.
The company will be located at 1446 S. Buncombe Road in Greer, S.C.
Individuals interested in joining the United Composite Materials team should visit readySC’s recruitment website.
WAKAYAMA, Japan — March 23, 2026 — Textile technology solutions provider SHIMA SEIKI MFG., LTD. of Wakayama, Japan, along with its Italian subsidiary SHIMA SEIKI ITALIA S.p.A., will be participating in the Techtextil 2026 exhibition in Frankfurt, Germany next month. On display will be WHOLEGARMENT® and other advanced three-dimensional knitting applications across a wide range of industries besides fashion apparel that are not typically associated with knitting, such as technical textiles using industrial materials and advanced three-dimensional knitting.
The SWG®-XR WHOLEGARMENT® knitting machine features 4 needle beds and SHIMA SEIKI’s original SlideNeedle™, capable of producing high-quality fine gauge WHOLEGARMENT® products in all needles with higher productivity and wider range of patterning. There is great potential for WHOLEGARMENT® knitting in the field of technical textiles, where most items are produced by woven or circular- and warp-knitted textiles using specialized industrial materials that are in many instances very costly.
Textile production usually involves knitting or weaving a square sheet from which 2D shaped patterns are cut and sewn together to make the final product, during which precious material is wasted. In sharp contrast, the WHOLEGARMENT® knitting process can produce a complete item in 3D without the need for sewing or linking, and no material wasted. Through WHOLEGARMENT® knitting technology, SHIMA SEIKI therefore offers a sustainable, economical and smarter alternative to current manufacturing processes for technical textiles. In addition,
WHOLEGARMENT® knitting can create partial compression and special shaping, and since it produces one product at a time, on-demand production for customized items such as for patient care in the medical field is possible. Furthermore, WHOLEGARMENT® has no seams, providing excellent fit, comfort and stretch characteristics that support a wide range of medical applications.
SHIMA SEIKI’s SES® -R next-generation shaping machine features an all-new spring-type moveable sinker system which expands its product range even further with unprecedented three-dimensional shaping capability. Combined with loop pressers and auto yarn carriers, it enhances performance in both inverse plating and inlay knitting for efficient knitting of diverse patterns that support various industries besides apparel, such as sports, automotive, and industrial materials.
SES®-R will be shown at Techtextil in 14 gauge with a 52-inch (132 cm) knitting width to support production of larger items. Also on display will be examples of technical textiles using industrial materials produced with SWG®-XR, SES®-R and other SHIMA SEIKI technology.
In addition to machine technology, presentations will be made on SDS® KnitPaint-Online knit software, the proven software used by knitting companies across the globe to create knitting data for programming SHIMA SEIKI computerized flat knitting machines. Also demonstrated will be APEXFiz® subscription design software that supports the creative side from planning and design to realistic textile simulation and 3D virtual sampling of products.
Virtual samples are a digitized version of sample making that are accurate enough to be used effectively as prototypes, replacing physical sampling and consequently reducing time, cost and material that otherwise go to waste. When a design is approved for production, knitting data which is automatically generated can be easily transferred to SDS® KnitPaint-Online for converting into machine data, digitally bridging the gap between design and production. APEXFiz® and SDS® KnitPaint-Online therefore help to realize sustainability while digitally transforming the supply chain.
MUMBAI, MAHARASHTRA, India — March 23, 2026 — As India’s textile and apparel industry continues to expand its global footprint while adapting to evolving manufacturing technologies and sustainability priorities, Gartex Texprocess India Mumbai incorporating the Denim Show will bring together the apparel and garment manufacturing value chain from 9 – 11 April 2026, at the Bombay Exhibition Centre, Mumbai.
The exhibition will serve as a platform for the machinery manufacturers, technology providers, fabric suppliers, textile printers and accessories suppliers to connect, explore innovations and strengthen business collaborations across the textile and garment manufacturing ecosystem.
*India’s textile and apparel sector – valued at nearly USD 179 billion, remains a key pillar of the economy, contributing around 2% to the GDP nearly 11% to manufacturing GVA and over 8% to exports while supporting the livelihoods of 45 million people across the value chain. Besides being the largest cultivator of cotton and producer of jute and silk, backed by rich legacy of India’s timeless textile designs, the country has set a precedent in also in manufacturing of manmade textile ecosystem. These reflect the scale, diversity and potential of India’s textile ecosystem.
Amidst this evolving industry backdrop Gartex Texprocess India Mumbai will bring together more than 125 companies participating at the show presenting solutions across apparel and garment manufacturing technologies, denim manufacturers, fabrics, trims, accessories and textile printing solutions. The event will feature participation from companies representing key textile technology markets including Italy, Germany, China, Japan, Taiwan and Hong Kong. Visitors will have access to over 500 products and 300 brands along with some new participants at the show. The fair will see new products launches, expected during the show.
Exhibitor showcase will cover a wide range of technologies and solutions including garment and apparel machinery, textile processing machinery, textile printing machinery, digital printing technologies, yarn and knitting machinery, printing and dyeing equipment, automation and software, testing equipment, packaging and labelling solutions as well as fabrics, trims and accessories.
Mr Raj Manek, Executive Director & Board Member, Messe Frankfurt Asia Holdings Ltd expressed: “India’s textile industry is witnessing strong momentum driven by technological advancement, global sourcing opportunities and increasing emphasis on sustainability. Platforms such as Gartex Texprocess India play an important role in bringing together industry stakeholders to explore innovations, share knowledge and build partnerships that support the sector’s next phase of growth.”
Likewise, Mr Gaurav Juneja, Director, MEX Exhibitions Pvt Ltd, shared: “The garment and textile manufacturing sector continues to evolve with growing demand for advanced machinery, efficient processing technologies and integrated supply chains. Through Gartex Texprocess India and it’s co-located shows, we aim to provide a focused platform for technology providers manufacturers and suppliers to engage with industry professionals and explore new business opportunities.”
Reflecting evolving manufacturing needs, this edition will also see expanded product categories such as knitting machinery and fusing technologies supporting efficiency and precision in garment production. The co-located shows will further highlight specialised industry segments. The Denim Show supported by the Denim Manufacturers Association will present innovations from denim mills, fabric producers, finishing and washing technology providers, dyes and chemicals suppliers and denim garment manufacturing machinery companies.
As sustainability and circularity become increasingly important across the global textile supply chains, exhibitors are also expected to highlight technologies aimed at improving resource efficiency, reducing water, energy consumption, enabling recycling and supporting environmentally responsible production processes. The trade fair will see participation from Indian brands like: Balaji Sewing Machine, Bekah, Benz Embroidery, Brother, DCC, Dollar, Epson, Fynd, HSW, Jack, Jaysynth, Lordi Mehala Machines, Mexum, National Fabricator, Om Satya, Optitex, Siruba, Stampit Robotai, V Design and many more prestigious brands. The Denim show in association with the Denim Manufacturers Association will showcase brands like: Ginni International, LNJ Denim, Oswal Denim, Siyaram’s, Syama Denims and many more.
In addition to the exhibition, the event will also feature knowledge-sharing sessions and industry discussions, bringing together experts and stakeholders to exchange insights across Gartex Talks and Denim Talks. The topics** will be around: From Data to Design: Turning Consumer Insights into Winning Products, Culture to Commerce, How Global Cultural Shifts Are Shaping the Next Fashion Trends, AI in Apparel Manufacturing: From Prediction to Production, Athleisure Evolution: When Performance Fabrics Go Mainstream, The Future of Garment Machinery: Speed, Precision & Sustainability, Towards Zero-Waste Textile Production: Innovations in Machinery & Technology, Digital Textile Printing: The Next Frontier of Customization and more.
The expo is jointly organised by Messe Frankfurt Trade Fairs India Pvt Ltd and MEX Exhibitions Pvt Ltd.
BRUSSELS — March 23, 2026 — A new report from Boston Consulting Group (BCG) and ReHubs, titled “Advancing Textile Circularity – Europe’s textile waste challenge: Scaling Textile-to-Textile requires enabling mechanisms”, highlights the urgent need for systemic action to tackle Europe’s growing textile waste and scale a circular textile economy.
The report establishes the first harmonized fact base on textile waste in Europe. It finds that Europe generates around 15.2 million tonnes of textile waste every year, including 13.3 million tonnes of post-consumer waste. However, only a small share of this waste is collected and sorted for recycling, leaving most textile waste outside recycling systems.
As a result, textile-to-textile recycling currently represents less than 1% of post-consumer textile waste in Europe. At the same time, waste volumes continue to rise rapidly. Without decisive action, Europe’s textile waste could reach the equivalent of around 80 football stadiums filled with discarded textiles every year by 2035.
The report shows that scaling textile-to-textile recycling is technically possible but requires reaching a critical tipping point of c. 2.7 million tonnes of recycling annually by 2035 to unlock economies of scale and make the ecosystem viable.
Reaching this milestone will require €8-11 billion in capital investment and €5-6.5 billion in recurring annual operating costs, as well as coordinated supply- and demand-side measures across the value chain.
The analysis also underlines that textile-to-textile recycled fibers represent a new product category with structurally higher processing costs. Under current market conditions, they cannot compete directly with incumbent recycled materials or virgin fibers without targeted enabling mechanisms and coordinated policy support.
Scaling textile circularity will therefore require coordinated collaboration across the entire value chain, from improved collection and sorting infrastructure to demand signals from brands and clear policy frameworks that support investment and innovation.
Robert van de Kerkhof, CEO at ReHubs commented:
“Europe has the opportunity to build a truly circular textile ecosystem, but it will require systemic change across the entire value chain. Textile-to-textile recycling is technically possible today, but scaling it requires coordinated action from industry, policymakers, and investors. Through collaboration across the value chain, ReHubs is helping to drive the transformation needed to build a circular textile economy in Europe.”
Nicolas Manuelli, Managing Director & Partner at BCG commented:
“This report shows that scaling textile-to-textile recycling in Europe is achievable, but it requires the right economic conditions. Textile-to-textile recycled fibers are a new product category with higher processing costs, meaning they will not scale without enabling mechanisms. Supply-side and demand-side measures, combined with appropriate financing tools and supportive trade and industrial policies, will be essential to unlock investment and accelerate the transition to a circular textile system.”
MEDINA, Ohio— March 25, 2026 — Fire-Dex, North America’s fastest-growing manufacturer of head-to-toe PPE for first responders, announced that UL Solutions has verified particulate ingress results for its AeroFlex® turnout system under UL Verification 1641. The verification confirms performance to NFPA Particle Inward Leakage testing requirements when the ensemble is worn in a specific configuration.
