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Textile Exchange Unveils Commitment-Based Pathway For Members To Accelerate Responsible Raw Material Production

March 2, 2026

LONDON — February 26, 2026 — Textile Exchange has unveiled further details about its new membership structure, designed to guide the fashion, textile, and apparel industry in a collective course of action toward preferred production systems for raw materials and fibers.

The organization first announced its pivot toward a more action-oriented membership in November 2025. The new structure introduces two distinct cohorts: the Community Cohort, suited for organizations who do not directly produce or source raw materials, and the Action Cohort which offers clear steps for brands, retailers, and raw material producers.

This approach is designed to better cater to the distinct needs and goals of different organizations and support them to take steps to scale preferred production systems while achieving beneficial outcomes for climate, nature, people, and animals.

Today’s announcement focuses on the Action Cohort and introduces the three-step pathway:

Step one: Reporting on progress to build clarity and momentum

Action Cohort members begin by reporting data relating to their materials sourcing or production. Reporting helps members and the broader community collectively identify gaps, measure progress, and more confidently plan the next steps for deeper, more effective action. For many current members, this will be a continuation of reporting through Textile Exchange’s Materials Benchmark.

For 2026, reporting will continue on a voluntary basis for members, with it becoming mandatory for brands and retailers in 2027. For organizations in Tiers 1–3 and Tier 4, the introduction of reporting requirements will be on a longer timeline.

Step two: Verifying best practice to strengthen credibility and outcomes

As Action Cohort members progress, they focus on increasing the proportion of their materials sourced or produced from verified preferred production systems. These include materials produced under Textile Exchange standards and other certification and verification schemes with third-party assurance to ensure that practices, data, outcomes, and claims are accurate, consistent, and independently assessed.

Best practice verification will focus on actions in key areas, including:

Pesticide and fertilizer use
Deforestation and conversion
Animal welfare
Textile-to-textile recycling
Human rights and livelihoods
Overall certified/verified sourcing

Members will also be supported in setting achievable and meaningful targets to increase their proportion of materials from verified systems, guided by aggregate targets that provide a clear direction of travel for the industry.

These targets, with further details to be published shortly, combined with reporting requirements, provide a standardized way to credibly measure and track progress, with a focus on doing so via best practices that are verified by standards and certifications.

Target-setting will be required of brands and retailers in the Action Cohort starting in 2027, with supplier and producer requirements introduced at a later stage.

Step three: Lead to deliver impact at scale

Textile Exchange intends to accelerate collective action toward system transformation by working with leading brands, retailers, suppliers, and producers who raise the bar on what credible progress looks like. Through designated working groups, members will be supported to take decisive actions that drive system-wide impact beyond what any one organization could achieve alone.

Sarah Needham, Chief Engagement and Partnerships Officer, said: “By introducing a clear pathway for our new Action Cohort, we give both those who source materials and those who produce them the structure and confidence to accelerate their impact and help transform our industry. We know the ambition and appetite for change is there. This new approach clearly sets out how we move forward, concretizing the steps needed to accelerate the shift to preferred production systems, and supporting organizations in driving lasting impact.”

What membership means in practice

Textile Exchange membership offers a wide range of resources and tools tailored to support organizations at every stage of their journey. Those in the Community Cohort receive access to all of Textile Exchange’s reports and research, providing actionable insights into material production, sustainability progress, and key industry trends. They can also connect virtually with peers through Textile Exchange’s members-only forum, The Hub, join members-only convenings, and enjoy discounted access to the Textile Exchange conference and other events.

Action Cohort members receive all of these benefits, alongside expert guidance and hands-on support to advance their organization’s efforts to source or produce more responsible materials. This includes support with reporting and target-setting, access to workshops, opportunities to participate in active change and leadership, and complimentary tickets to the Textile Exchange conference.

As organizations renew their Textile Exchange membership, they will be placed into the cohort that best aligns with their needs and their organizational status.

Find out more

For more information on Textile Exchange’s transition to a new membership structure, visit: https://textileexchange.org/membership/

Posted: Marchy 2, 2026

Source: Textile Exchange

Former Starbucks And Levi’s Executive Michael Kobori Joins Avalo To Accelerate Agriculture’s Resilience Revolution

March 2, 2026

DURHAM, N.C. — March 2, 2026 — Michael Kobori, former board director of Bunge Global SA, former Chief Sustainability Officer at Starbucks, and former Vice President of Sustainability at Levi Strauss & Co, has joined the board at Avalo, an advanced crop-innovation company using AI to rapidly accelerate the creation of sustainable crop varieties.

Kobori’s career has focused on efficiency and sustainability in complex agricultural supply chains like fashion and food, making him an exciting addition to Avalo’s team who are focused on evolving the agricultural system from “seed to store.”

“In Michael, we found someone as obsessed with changing the agricultural status quo as we are. We’ve shown him that we now have the technology and tools to rebuild these systems from first principles,” said Avalo CEO and co-founder Brendan Collins. “Michael’s pragmatic experience implementing sustainability at some of the world’s most beloved and customer-obsessed brands, along with guiding one of the largest agricultural supply chain companies on the board at Bunge, is exactly the practical leadership we need to ensure our products reach the market and deliver the most impact.”

As Levi’s sustainability lead, a member of the Cotton Board, and founding Council member of the Better Cotton Initiative, Michael also brings a deep passion and understanding of commercializing sustainable cotton, which is Avalo’s first scale-up crop. In 2026 Avalo is introducing its Low-Carbon American cotton to the marketplace which will help fashion brands address historically hard-to-tackle scope 3 emissions, while simultaneously creating more value for farmers.

However, unlike other Agtech companies whose role ends at gene discovery, Avalo delivers innovation downstream to farmers, manufacturers, processors and brands in order to improve efficiency and sustainability across the entire supply chain. To do this, Avalo has developed eight proprietary AI models that guide breeding, seed production, agronomy and processing optimization.

“I am thrilled to join the Board of such a transformational company,” says Michael Kobori. “By using AI to accelerate development of more productive and resilient crops, Avalo will improve farmer livelihoods and drive value across the agricultural supply chain.”

Though cotton is Avalo’s flagship crop, the company has already begun the march to expand its impact on other critical global staples like lowering the carbon footprint of sugarcane by partnering with industry shapers like Coca-Cola Europacific Partners. Says Mariano Alvarez, Avalo’s other co-founder and Chief Science Officer: “We created a technology platform that can improve any industry, because we know every industry must evolve to address the critical agricultural challenges of the next century.”

Posted: Marchy 2, 2026

Source: Avalo Inc.

Lyle Shipley Joins Herculite As Director Of Innovation

March 2, 2026

EMIGSVILLE, PA — March 2, 2026 — Herculite Products is pleased to announce that Lyle Shipley is joining Herculite as the new Director of Innovation. In this role, Lyle will focus on advancing Herculite’s innovation strategy, developing new products and solutions, and supporting growth across the organization.

With over 25 years of experience in the plastics industry, Lyle has a strong background in film formulation, product management, technical services, and new product development. Most recently, he served as Senior Product Manager at Continental AG, where he led new product development initiatives and customer launches across healthcare, flooring, automotive, and specialty product lines.

Lyle holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology/Chemistry from Shepherd University, has completed additional leadership and business systems training, and received the Continental Excellence Award in 2022. Throughout his career, Lyle has dedicated himself to driving innovation, supporting continuous improvement, and partnering cross-functionally to bring new ideas from concept to market.

Posted: Marchy 2, 2026

Source: Herculite Products Inc.

2025 Quarterly Issue IV

February 28, 2026

Marco Bruno Appointed Global R&D Head at Avgol

Israel-based Avgol, an Indorama Ventures company, appointed Marco Bruno as Global R&D Head. With more than 20 years’ experience and 10-plus patents, Bruno’s key goal is to drive innovation and value-chain collaboration, developing next-generation personal care applications.

Angelica Taylor Named President of Cabot Hosiery Mills

Cabot Hosiery Mills, located in Northfield, Vt., is pleased to promote Angelica Taylor to President, its first non-family leader. She previously served as CFO and COO, overseeing brands including Darn Tough Vermont. “Angelica’s leadership has proven time and time again she’s going to do big things in our industry,” said CEO Ric Cabot.

Fawn Knadler Promoted As PrimaLoft’s North American Sales Director

Latham, N.Y.-based PrimaLoft, Inc. promoted Fawn Knadler to North American Sales Director, having led key accounts including Nike and Patagonia. Knadler will now oversee regional sales strategy across the U.S. and Canada. “I’m thrilled to step into this new role and continue building strong partnerships with our customers across North America,” said Knadler.

Stacey Bridges Appointed VP of Sales & Operations Clover Knits

Clover Knits, Inc., in Clover, S.C., appointed Stacey Bridges to the newly created position Vice President of Sales and Operations. With more than 30 years of textile experience, Bridges previously served as VP of Sales at Hanes Dye & Finishing. “Stacey’s vast experience makes him the perfect fit to drive sales growth,” said President Kevin McCarter.

Cindy Cooperman Promoted With Pantone, Now VP & GM

X-Rite Pantone, in Grand Rapids, Mich., promoted Cindy Cooperman to Vice President and General Manager of Pantone. Cooperman has more than 25 years of experience leading strategic color-consulting initiatives. In her new position, she will strengthen Pantone’s role in shaping color workflows, color standards in digital workflows and help create a seamless customer journey from inspiration to product.

Behnam Pourdeyhimi To Step Down, Raoul Farer Promoted To NWI Director

After more than 25 years as executive director of The Nonwovens Institute (NWI) in Raleigh, N.C., Behnam Pourdeyhimi will step down Dec. 31. Under Pourdeyhimi, NWI became the first accredited academic program in engineered fabrics.

Stepping up is Raoul Farer, executive deputy director and a professor of textile engineering, chemistry and science.

“I’ve been incredibly impressed with his accomplishments and firmly believe he is the right choice to lead the institute into the future,” Pourdeyhimi said.

(clockwise from upper left) Brian Johnson, Stacy Swider, Steven Tran and Francisco J. Martinez

AFFOA Appoints Four Industry Leaders to Board

Advanced Functional Fabrics of America (AFFOA) in Bedford, MA, appointed four leaders to its Board of Directors to accelerate functional fabric technology and national security initiatives. New members include Brian Johnson, president of MassMEDIC, bringing deep medical device market knowledge; Francisco J. Martinez, vice president of R&D at Bethel Industries will guide AAFOA government relationships; Stacy Swider, vice president of investments at MassVentures leverages high-potential deep-tech startup experience ; and Steven Tran, executive vice president of finance and contracts at Activate has knowledge in financial planning, audits, contracting, and grant processes. Their expertise further strengthens AFFOA’s mission to advance smart textiles manufacturing and commercialization nationwide.

“We are excited about the wide-ranging expertise of our board,” said Sasha Stolyarov, Ph.D., AFFOA CEO. “I am looking forward to working with each new board member in expanding our impact regionally and nationally.”

TSG Finishing Names First Non-Family Partner

TSG Finishing, LLC, a 125-year-old textile finishing leader based in Hickory, N.C., appointed Benjamin Harris as its first non-family partner. Harris, formerly COO, will guide strategic decisions, operations, and long-term growth while supporting innovation and the company’s ongoing evolution. “I’m honored to take on this responsibility,” said Harris. “It’s a testament to the company’s vision of building a strong foundation for future generations.”

Robert MacMeccan Named General Manager at Turf

Located in Chicago, Turf appointed Robert MacMeccan, Ph.D., WELL AP, as general manager, leading the next phase of growth in design-forward acoustic solutions for the architecture and design industries. With more than 18 years of executive leadership experience at Milliken & Company and a systems-driven yet creative approach to leadership, MacMeccan will support Turf’s continued momentum, building on the brand’s strong legacy of customization, service, and design integrity.

Fire-Dex Appointed Maged Baskhron VP of Operations

Medina, Ohio-based Fire-Dex, manufacturer of head-to-toe PPE for first responders, appointed Maged Baskhron Vice President of Operations. Baskhron is intentional about trust, accountability and enabling teams to act. “I’m eager to help our teams build it right, deliver it right, and keep safety as the starting point,” Baskhron said.

Renfro Brands Promotes Jay W. Robinson President & CEO

Jay W. Robinson, with more than 30 years in consumer products and apparel, has been promoted to President and CEO of Renfro Brands, based in Mount Airy, N.C. His leadership approach combines strategic vision with a commitment to building high-performing teams. “We have a tremendous team here at Renfro Brands and I am honored to be entrusted with guiding our efforts at such an exciting time in the Company’s long history,” said Robinson.

MMI Textiles Strengthens Executive Team

MMI Textiles in Cleveland, Ohio, announced two leadership updates to position the company for continued growth and operational excellence, while advancing innovation and growth across its diverse markets.

Kathleen Wagner has joined as Director of Sales, bringing 15 years sales and leadership experience and a fresh perspective from outside the textile industry to support the company’s next phase of growth.

Scott Roubic has joined the company as Chief Financial Officer, bringing 30 years senior financial leadership experience across public, private, and private-equity-backed organizations.

Children’s Brand Hanna Andersson Appoints Kacey Sharrett Chief Digital Officer

Hanna Andersson, in Portland, Ore., appointed Kacey Sharrett as Chief Digital Officer. She will lead the brand’s digital strategy, customer experience, and ecommerce initiatives, leveraging nearly two decades of digital and direct-to-consumer leadership experience.

“Kacey’s experience modernizing digital capabilities and driving performance marketing at scale will be invaluable in unlocking new ways for customers to experience our brand.” shared Aimée Lapic, CEO Hanna Andersson.

Cotton Incorporated Names Bev Sylvester Chief Marketing Officer

Cotton Incorporated, based in Cary, N.C., appointed Bev Sylvester to the newly created role as chief marketing officer, where she will lead demand-building initiatives, shaping compelling narratives around cotton’s value, aligning with the needs of mills, manufacturers, brands, and retailers.

Formerly with Unifi Manufacturing, Inc., Sylvester led efforts with mills to drive adoption and fiber preference for REPREVE, providing insight on fiber-level supply chain decisions.

Her appointment aligns with Cotton Incorporated’s market-driven approach with a focus on strengthening industry engagement while maintaining consumer demand-building strategies.

2026 Quarterly Issue I

RUDOLF Global Distribution Of Sanitized® Textile Technologies

February 28, 2026

RUDOLF Group, based in Geretsried, Germany, has assumed exclusive global distribution rights for Sanitized^® textile technologies from Burgdorf, Switzerland-based SANITIZED AG, marking the full implementation of their strategic partnership announced in 2025. The transition phase, begun in September 2025, ensured continuous customer supply and technical support, paving the way for long-term global cooperation and a more resilient international supply chain.

“With Sanitized^® technologies, RUDOLF expands its comprehensive textile chemistry portfolio from pretreatment to finishing, offering customers a single global point of contact,” the company said.

The Sanitized^® range includes Odorex™ (biocide-free odor neutralization), Puretec™ (antimicrobial odor control), and Silvertec™ (durable antibacterial protection). Complementary solutions such as OX20, a non-biocidal, bluesign® approved additive for long-lasting freshness, demonstrate growing demand for sustainable hygiene performance.

Together, RUDOLF and SANITIZED provide brands and manufacturers worldwide with coordinated, high-performance technologies and global technical service for durable textile innovation.

2026 Quarterly Issue I

Alchemie Jet Precision Dyeing & Acatel Collaborate

February 28, 2026

Jet precision dyeing pioneer Alchemie Technology, based in Cambridge, England, has partnered with Acatel, a sustainable textile manufacturer in Portugal, to validate and optimize Alchemie’s fully-electric, non-contact dyeing process for knitted cellulosic fabrics.

The 12-month R&D program, based at the Acatel Innovation Hub, will prepare this technology for large scale production, demonstrating major reductions in water, energy and chemical use, while improving consistency and efficiency.

“Transforming one of the world’s most resource-intensive processes has required resilience, vision and innovation,” said Dr. Alan Hudd, founder and CEO of Alchemie Technology. “Being part of the Acatel Innovation Hub represents the kind of bold partnership needed to scale sustainable textile solutions globally.”

“Acatel’s commitment to innovation and environmental stewardship aligns perfectly with Alchemie’s mission,” added Tércio Pinto, Acatel board member.

2026 Quarterly Issue I

Mahlo Adds AI For Smarter Weft Straightening

February 28, 2026

The Orthopac RVMC-20 plus from Mahlo delivers precise weft straightening at high production speeds.

Germany-based Mahlo GmbH + Co. KG has introduced the Orthopac RVMC-20 plus, an advanced weft straightening system that integrates artificial intelligence for higher precision, efficiency and sustainability. Building on the proven Orthopac RVMC-15, the new model adds double scanning with AI supported feed-forward and closed-loop control, enabling real-time correction of fabric distortion, even at high processing speeds.

A retrofit option allows existing RVMC-15 units to be upgraded by adding a second scanning unit, extending machine life while impro- ving accuracy and material yield.

“Innovation doesn’t always mean starting from scratch,” said Thomas Höpfl, Mahlo sales director. “With the RVMC-20 plus, we’ve shown that progress can also mean making the best even better — smarter, more precise and more sustainable.”

With thousands of systems in operation, Mahlo’s latest upgrade offers manufacturers a cost-effective path to consistent quality and reduced production waste.

2026 Quarterly Issue I

Atlas Publishes EV Interior Durability Testing

February 28, 2026

Atlas Material Testing Technology has released the “Atlas EV Weathering Testing Guide,” a new resource to help electric vehicle development teams and testing laboratories evaluate the durability of exterior and interior materials under real-world environmental stress.

The guide combines accelerated laboratory weathering, benchmark outdoor exposure and practical test guidance to improve confidence in long-term material performance. It addresses combined exposure factors — UV radiation, heat, moisture and thermal cycling — that can cause material fading, cracking or delamination.

“Durability results can be difficult to compare if exposure conditions and setup details aren’t aligned,” said Dr. Oliver Rahäuser, senior product manager at Mount Prospect, Ill.-based Atlas. “The guide highlights parameters that teams need to control and document, so results can be compared more reliably across methods, labs and test partners.”

Atlas operates benchmark outdoor exposure sites in Miami and Phoenix for correlation and validation of accelerated test results.

2026 Quarterly Issue I

Techtextil & Texprocess Frankfurt 2026 — Innovation on Display

February 27, 2026

(Photo: Jean-Luc Valentin / Messe Frankfurt)

Innovation, advanced materials and sustainable technologies take center stage, showcasing the textiles shaping tomorrow’s industry.

TW Special Report

Frankfurt am Main will once again become the global hub of textile innovation when Techtextil and Texprocess 2026 open their doors April 21–24 at Messe Frankfurt Fairgrounds. Organized by Messe Frankfurt GmbH, the dual trade fairs will bring together every link in the textile and apparel value chain, from fiber manufacturers and technical researchers to machinery suppliers and apparel producers.

Held concurrently, Techtextil and Texprocess have become synonymous with progress in high-performance materials, manufacturing technology and sustainable production. The 2026 editions promise a comprehensive look at how digitalization, automation and advanced materials are reshaping the industry’s future.

Reflecting A Complete Textile Value Chain

Techtextil will showcase the global scope of technical textiles and nonwovens across 12 application areas, covering the entire spectrum from research and fiber production, to coated fabrics, composites and apparel textiles. Exhibitors will span categories such as fibers and yarns, woven and knitted fabrics, nonwovens, composites, textile chemicals and performance apparel materials, complemented by industry associations, media and consulting organizations.

Texprocess will center on technologies and services for garment and textile processing, including automation, software solutions and digital value-chain optimization, ensuring visitors can navigate from raw materials to finished products within a few exhibition halls.

“The simultaneous staging of Techtextil and Texprocess creates a unique ecosystem,” said Olaf Schmidt, vice president of textiles and textile technologies for Messe Frankfurt. “Especially in times of restrained investment, it becomes clear just how crucial innovative strength is. These fairs are where ideas are not only presented but further developed into market-ready solutions.”

Innovation Under One Roof

Innovation will take center stage at the Techtextil and Texprocess Innovation Awards, which honor pioneering developments in materials, digital processes and sustainable manufacturing. The awards embody the organizers’ vision of connecting research, technology and application — this formula has made the fairs leading launch platforms for industry-shaping ideas.

“The Innovation Awards make this strength tangible, giving new technologies visibility, credibility and often the decisive impetus needed to turn research into industrial application,” Schmidt said.

This year’s themes mirror the industry’s broader transformation. Artificial intelligence and 3D design are increasingly shaping product development, supporting faster iterations, less waste and more agile production models.

Walter Wählt, chairman of the Texprocess Innovation Award and senior director of advanced creation at adidas, underscored the convergence of digital tools and human expertise.“3D design, virtual prototyping and AI drastically shorten development cycles and reduce material use,” he said. “Yet despite all the technological momentum, people remain decisive — creativity, experience and judgment cannot be automated.”

From Lab To Marketplace

At Techtextil, exhibitors will demonstrate how technical textiles now permeate every sector, organized into 12 application areas — from Agrotech for agricultural fabrics to Mobiltech for automotive and aerospace textiles, Medtech for healthcare, and Sporttech for sportswear and outdoor equipment. This cross-disciplinary format is designed to encourage collaboration: where “car manufacturers meet fashion designers and medical engineers meet industry specialists,” as Messe Frankfurt describes.

The fair’s visual navigation system will again feature easily recognizable icons on exhibitor stands, helping visitors connect quickly with materials and solutions relevant to their production needs.

Among the key themes, sustainability remains a competitive necessity rather than a niche pursuit. António Braz Costa, chairman of the Techtextil Innovation Award and general manager for CITEVE, emphasized the link between scientific research and industrial scale-up. “Sustainability, particularly when applied to high- performance materials and products, only becomes economically viable through a virtuous tandem of research and innovation,” he said. “Recycling technologies, circular solutions or entirely new materials are meaningless if they remain confined to the lab. What matters is their translation into real industrial processes.”

That translation happens most visibly at events like Techtextil and Texprocess, where the interaction between R&D centers, brand engineers and equipment suppliers can accelerate pilot projects into scalable production.

Industry Dialogue In A Time Of Transition

While economic uncertainty and geopolitical tensions continue to challenge global supply chains, many experts view innovation as the sector’s most reliable growth engine. In a recent press discussion announcing the 2026 fairs, speakers from technology providers and brand manufacturers echoed this sentiment, pointing to innovation as a stabilizing force during market volatility.

“Today, innovation serves both as a lever for efficiency and a driver of growth,” noted Elgar Straub, managing director of VDMA Textile Care, Fabric and Leather Technologies. “Digitalization, automation and AI enable companies to conserve resources, produce flexibly and reposition themselves more effectively and competitively.”

Such perspectives resonate with an industry in transition. Beyond automation and AI, sustainability and circularity are bringing research-driven startups, fiber laboratories and system integrators into closer dialogue with multinational manufacturers. That convergence, Messe Frankfurt representatives say, is exactly what defines Techtextil and Texprocess: a live environment for the cross-pollination of ideas.

Innovation As A Strategic Imperative

The 2026 editions will again illustrate how innovation — from smart textiles and bio-based fibers to limit-pushing processing technologies — is not merely a marketing theme but a strategic imperative for survival in a rapidly evolving global economy.

Each biennial event historically draws thousands of visitors from more than 100 countries. While exhibitor numbers will be confirmed later this spring, organizers expect strong international participation, reflecting the continuing demand for efficiency, sustainability and technical performance.

“Research, development and scalable implementation thrive best when the entire value chain is present,” Schmidt added. “That’s why Techtextil and Texprocess happen side-by-side — this is how ideas turn into results.”

As April approaches, the textile world will once again look to Frankfurt for insight into what’s next. Whether through automation breakthroughs, fiber innovation or sustainable design systems, Techtextil and Texprocess 2026 will provide a concentrated look at the future of global textile manufacturing — where technology, creativity and collaboration converge.

2026 Quarterly Issue I

Textiles Recycling Expo USA: Maiden Voyage

February 27, 2026

Building on the success in Brussels in June 2025, the first edition of Textiles Recycling Expo USA comes to Charlotte, N.C. with the wind at its back.

TW Special Report

Charlotte, N.C., will host the first Textiles Recycling Expo USA, described by organizer Applied Market Information Ltd. (AMI) as “the first dedicated exhibition and conference for textile recycling in North America.”

Wyomissing, Pa.-based AMI will hold the event April 29–30, 2026, at the Charlotte Convention Center. Admission is free.

New U.S. Event Based On Prior Success

AMI launched the Textiles Recycling Expo in Brussels, Belgium, in 2025 as its first event focused on textile waste, building on its long experience in plastics recycling. The Brussels edition provided a dedicated forum for stakeholders to examine textile recycling and circularity across the supply chain.

According to AMI, the strong response in Europe made expansion into North America a logical next step, supporting its goal of developing a global platform to advance textile recycling as a scalable and normalized practice.

Fertile Ground

The U.S. textile and apparel sectors — as well as consumers — are ready for an event focused on textile circularity. AMI describes the expo as “a dedicated platform for the region’s industry leaders to connect, collaborate, and accelerate progress toward a more circular textile economy.”

Early Supporters

“We are very excited to bring the Textiles Recycling Expo to the USA,” said Zied Chetoui, event manager for the show. “Conversations with American attendees at our European launch made it clear there’s a real need for a meeting place for the North American textiles recycling community.”

Founding partners include the Secondary Materials and Recycled Textile (SMART) Association and American Circular Textiles™ (AMCIRC). Rachel Kibbe, AMICIRC founder and CEO, said the partnership “underscores the importance of alignment among recyclers, manufacturers, brands, and policymakers to scale textile circularity nationwide.”

Structural Partner Accelerating Circularity and Event Impact Partner Goodwill® have also joined, along with sponsors including Trützschler, Reju, and the American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists (AATCC).

“We’re looking forward to building on the momentum that began in Brussels,” said Karla Magruder, founder of Accelerating Circularity.

Expo And Conference Highlights

Booth 600 will host the Textile Innovation Engine Showcase, featuring the National Science Foundation (NSF)-funded Textile Innovation Engine. Based in North Carolina, the initiative connects NC State University, Material Return, the Manufacturing Solutions Center, the Gaston Fiber Innovation Center and Goodwill Industries of Northwest North Carolina. Its aim is to align regional innovation efforts and accelerate the development of scalable circular textile solutions.

Enthusiastic Expectations

The Brussels debut in June 2025 featured 126 exhibitors and drew 3,336 visitors from 67 countries, making it the largest meeting to date focused on textile recycling. Twelve percent of attendees traveled from Africa, Asia, and the Americas.

Whether Charlotte will achieve similar results remains to be seen —but organizers are optimistic that momentum is on their side.