RE&UP Partners With Madewell And ISKO On Textile-To-Textile Denim Capsule

EINDHOVEN, The Netherlands — April 8, 2026 — RE&UP Recycling Technologies is accelerating the shift toward a closed-loop textile economy through a strategic collaboration with American denim brand Madewell and global fabric manufacturer ISKO. By transforming approximately 20,000 pairs of post-consumer jeans into high-quality recycled feedstock for a textile-to-textile recycled denim capsule, RE&UP is demonstrating the commercial readiness of circular systems for the denim sector.

Next-Gen Cotton Photo – RE&UP

Launched in 2006, Madewell is known for its premium denim and commitment to responsibly sourced materials and sustainable practices. As the first brand to offer year-round denim recycling through Cotton’s Blue Jeans Go Green™ program, Madewell has operated its denim trade-in initiative for more than a decade, giving worn denim a new life and collecting and recycling over two million pairs of jeans.

This partnership marks a technical evolution: RE&UP’s advanced recycling technology allows these pre-loved garments to be deconstructed and re-engineered into Next-Gen Cotton and Polyester fibers that meet the durability and aesthetic requirements of the premium denim market.

The challenge of post-consumer denim lies in its complexity and varied mechanical history. RE&UP’s proprietary process solves this by providing a feedstock-agnostic capacity, capable of handling diverse polycotton blends and turning them into a “raw canvas” for new production. The resulting fibers were provided to ISKO, where they were engineered into Global Recycled Standard (GRS) certified fabrics that maintain the stretch, strength, and comfort required by modern consumers.

The collection launches on Wednesday, April 8 and will be available to shop on Madewell.com.

“Closing the loop on post-consumer denim requires industrial precision,” said Marco Lucietti, Head of Global Marketing&Communications of RE&UP. “Our collaboration with Madewell and ISKO demonstrates that we can deconstruct complex, worn garments and re-integrate them into the supply chain as high-quality Next-Gen Cotton and Polyester. This is a blueprint for how brands can utilize their own take-back streams to create a repeatable, closed-loop production cycle.”

Posted: April 12, 2026

Source: RE&UP

NRF: Import Cargo Volumes Face Headwinds From Tariffs and Increasing Fuel Prices

WASHINGTON — April 8, 2026 — Import volume at major U.S. container ports is not being significantly affected by the conflict in Iran but ocean carriers are seeing a related increase in fuel costs that could eventually affect retailers and their customers, according to the Global Port Tracker report released today by the National Retail Federation and Hackett Associates.

“Just because retailers don’t import a lot of merchandise from the Middle East doesn’t mean the U.S. supply chain isn’t affected by the turmoil there,” NRF Vice President for Supply Chain and Customs Policy Jonathan Gold said. “The supply chain is global and disruptions anywhere along it can have ripple effects whether it’s rerouting of vessels, equipment out of position, higher fuel costs for shippers or rising gas prices that leave less money in consumers’ pockets. Retailers are monitoring the situation on a daily basis and working with their transportation partners to minimize any impact. In the meantime, retailers continue to face rising tariffs and continued trade policy uncertainty that put downward pressure on imports and upward pressure on prices.”

President Donald Trump last month announced a temporary 10% global tariff under the Trade Act of 1974 after the Supreme Court ruled that the use of tariffs under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act was illegal. Last week, he adjusted Section 232 tariffs that were imposed last year on imported steel, aluminum and copper and announced new Section 232 tariffs on pharmaceutical products and ingredients..

Hackett Associates Founder Ben Hackett said volume at U.S. container imports has been slowed by tariffs but is not being significantly affected by the situation in Iran because little U.S. container cargo comes from the region. Nonetheless, the blockage of the Strait of Hormuz is driving up the price of fuel for container ships worldwide at the same time consumers are paying more for gasoline, he said. In addition, ports in Asia depend on fuel from the Persian Gulf and could see shortages if the conflict is not resolved soon. It is too soon to assess the impact of the two-week ceasefire announced on Tuesday, he said.

“The United States is less impacted operationally as there is no shortage of fuel at U.S. ports, but the price of fuel here is based on international pricing,” Hackett said. “Higher fuel costs drive up the price of shipping a container for either import or export and ultimately have an inflationary impact on consumers and other end users.”

U.S. ports covered by Global Port Tracker handled 1.95 million Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units — one 20-foot container or its equivalent — in February, although the Port of New York/New Jersey has not yet reported its data. That was down 7.5% from January and down 4.2% year over year. February is traditionally the slowest month of the year because of Lunar New Year factory shutdowns in Asia.

Ports have not reported March numbers, but Global Port Tracker projected the month at 1.97 million TEU, down 8.3% year over year. April is forecast at 2.08 million TEU, down 5.6 year over year; May at 2.09 million TEU, up 7.3%; June at 2.1 million TEU, up 6.9%; July at 2.2 million TEU, down 8%, and August at 2.18 million TEU, down 6%.

Those numbers would bring the first half of 2026 to 12.3 million TEU, down 1.8% from 12.53 million TEU during the same period in 2025. The year-over-year increases in May and June are largely because of the sharp drop-off in imports during those months last year after “Liberation Day” tariffs were announced in April 2025.

Imports totaled 25.4 million TEU in 2025, down 0.3% from 25.5 million TEU in 2024.

Global Port Tracker, which is produced for NRF by Hackett Associates, provides historical data and forecasts for the U.S. ports of Los Angeles/Long Beach, Oakland, Seattle and Tacoma on the West Coast; New York/New Jersey, Port of Virginia, Charleston, Savannah, Port Everglades, Miami and Jacksonville on the East Coast, and Houston on the Gulf Coast. The report is free to NRF retail members, and subscription information is available at NRF.com/PortTracker

As the leading authority and voice for the retail industry, NRF analyzes economic conditions affecting the industry through reports such as Global Port Tracker.

Posted: April 12, 2026

Source: The National Retail Federation (NRF)

Leading Apparel Brands Back unspun’s Plans To Build Domestic Manufacturing Hubs For Automated Apparel Production In The U.S.

SAN FRANCISCO — April 6, 2026 — Leading brands, including Walmart, have signed letters of support for unspun’s plan to build domestic manufacturing capacity in the U.S. using an AI-enabled 3D weaving technology designed to bring apparel manufacturing closer to consumers at a commercial scale.

unspun’s 3D weaving facility in California

Supply chain partners Bethel Industries, Peckham, and PDS Ltd / GSC Link are also participating to help establish automated domestic production hubs, with initial production on the near-term horizon.

With more than $50M in VC funding, unspun is advancing its proprietary 3D weaving technology — an AI-enabled system that produces garments directly from yarn via a highly automated process. REI has also signed a letter of support for the initiative, reinforcing broad industry demand for reshored, next-generation apparel manufacturing. unspun has equipment ready for deployment and is currently evaluating sites across multiple states.

“We are not exploring whether domestic apparel manufacturing can work. We are building it,” said Arne Arens, CEO of unspun and former Global Brand President of The North Face. “Our clients are looking for a new production model because they see the economics: manufacturing closer to the customer, responding to demand within the same season, and creating skilled American jobs in the process.”

unspun’s 3D technology weaves semi-finished garments directly from yarn in minutes, transforming dozens of traditional cut-and-sew steps into a single, automated process. The platform enables brands to produce closer to demand, reorder within the same season, and significantly reduce excess inventory — an issue that costs the industry billions each year. By shortening production timelines from months to days, 3D weaving can improve gross margins by 400–500 basis points through fewer markdowns and write-offs, while also supporting the creation of skilled manufacturing jobs in the U.S. This approach is designed to unlock domestic, demand-driven production at commercial scale as the apparel industry shifts toward next-generation manufacturing systems.

Avisnash Bhasker, Vice President, Apparel Production Development at Walmart, said, “Our customers are proud to buy apparel made in America, and the demand keeps growing. We are excited about unspun’s commitment and effort in helping rebuild domestic manufacturing capability that is faster, smarter, and designed for how customers actually shop.”

unspun is currently evaluating potential locations, infrastructure requirements, and workforce training programs as it moves toward establishing the first automated apparel manufacturing hubs in the United States powered by 3D weaving technology. The initiative represents one of the first examples of AI-enabled automation being deployed to rebuild domestic manufacturing capacity at scale.

Arens was appointed CEO in March 2026, bringing decades of experience leading global consumer brands, including The North Face and Boardriders, the parent company of Quicksilver and Billabong. His appointment signaled unspun’s shift from technology development to industrial-scale deployment.

Posted: April 7, 2026

Source: unspun

UNIFI®, Makers of REPREVE®, Celebrates Recycled And Circular Innovation With Ninth Annual REPREVE® Champions Of Sustainability Awards

GREENSBORO, N.C. — April 7, 2026 — Unifi, Inc., the makers of REPREVE® and one of the world’s leading innovators in recycled and synthetic yarns, today announced the winners of its ninth annual REPREVE Champions of Sustainability Awards, recognizing brands and mills that are advancing circularity and responsible manufacturing across the global textile industry.

UNIFI®, Makers of REPREVE®, Celebrates Recycled and Circular Innovation with Ninth Annual REPREVE® Champions of Sustainability Awards

Together with its brand partners, UNIFI® has helped recycle more than 46 billion plastic bottles and transform the equivalent of one billion T-shirts’ worth of textile and yarn waste into high-quality recycled fibers. The annual awards celebrate companies that are leading the way in sustainable innovation, material transformation, and circular design through their use of REPREVE.

Introducing New Textile Waste Awards

This year’s program expanded to include new Textile Waste Awards, recognizing companies that are helping accelerate circular solutions by incorporating textile waste into their products.

  • Game Changer Award (High-volume textile waste utilization):
    • Texollini – Swim USA® (Vitamin A) – REPREVE Nylon
  • Trailblazer Award (First to market in their category):
    • Walmart® – Joyspun® socks featuring REPREVE Takeback™
  • Accelerator Award (Adoption across multiple products):
    • Marmot® – ThermaLoop™ Insulation and REPREVE
  • Change Maker Award (Conversion from recycled polyester to textile waste inputs):
    • Save the Duck® – ThermaLoop
    • Lafuma® – ThermaLoop

UNIFI also recognized brand partners across additional sustainability-focused categories:

  • Sustainable Fabric Innovation: Swisstex – REPREVE ReCirculate™
  • Commitment to Circularity: Dagne Dover® – REPREVE
  • Newcomer Award: Me by Jennie Garth™, QVC® – REPREVE Our Ocean®
  • Made in USA Award: Walmart Valley Forge Flags – Produced with REPREVE by Cotswold Industries

“These awards celebrate the brands and partners who are not only setting ambitious sustainability goals, but actively delivering measurable impact through innovation and collaboration,” said Eddie Ingle, CEO of UNIFI. “Their leadership demonstrates how recycled and circular materials can scale across categories while maintaining performance and quality.”

The REPREVE Champions of Sustainability Awards underscore UNIFI’s commitment to enabling scalable, traceable, and high-performance recycled solutions that help transform waste into value across the global supply chain.

To see the full list of brand partner and mill winners, please visit https://repreve.com/champions-of-sustainability.

Posted: April 7, 2026

Source: Unifi, Inc.

Results Of The 37th ITMF Global Textile Industry Survey

ZÜRICH, Switzerland — April 7, 2026 — The International Textile Manufacturers Federation (ITMF) released findings from its 37th Global Textile Industry Survey (GTIS), conducted in March sharing how regions and segments are impacted by the latest geopolitical disruptions.

Source: 8th-37th ITMF Global Textile Industry Survey (37th: 10-19.03.2026) – last data point = March 2026

The 37th GTIS shows a deteriorating global business climate, with the global business situation balance falling to -25 percentage points as the US/Israel-Iran war disrupted energy markets.

Africa was the only region posting a positive business situation and North & Central America recorded the steepest decline, while garment producers fared best among segments with textile machinery manufacturers remaining deeply negative.

The global business expectations balance collapsed from over +23pp to +5pp – the lowest since November 2022 – as stagflation risks comparable to the post-Ukraine invasion shock of 2022 are reviving.

South America led regional optimism while South-East Asia was the most pessimistic. Brands & retailers were the most upbeat segment against a deeply negative outlook for weavers/knitters.

Geopolitics overtakes weak demand as the industry’s top concern

For the first time, geopolitics topped industry concerns at 50%, edging out weak demand at 49%, driven by the war in Iran and surging energy prices, higher raw material costs, and logistics disruptions from the Strait of Hormuz blockade. Notably, tariffs dropped sharply as a concern from 31% to 13%. In response, firms intensify efforts towards market diversification away from the US and internal cost absorption, while relocation of productions and other capital-intensive strategies remain low.

For more information, please see www.itmf.org or contact secretariat@itmf.org.

Posted: April 7, 2026

Source: The International Textile Manufacturers Federation (ITMF)

Hyosung TNC Presents New regen™ BIO Spandex Developments At Functional Fabric Fair

SEOUL, South Korea — April 1, 2026 — Fashion has long relied on fossil-based materials to deliver the performance consumers expect. Changing that requires more than intention, it requires infrastructure.

Hyosung TNC is building that infrastructure. As the world’s largest spandex manufacturer by market share, the company has committed $1 billion to establishing the first fully integrated bio-based production system of its kind: from sugarcane to Hyosung TNC’s Bio-BDO, Bio-PTMG, and ultimately Bio Spandex, all within a single, connected value chain.

Sugarcane marks a new chapter in bio-based material innovation. As the industry pushes further into renewable feedstocks, sugarcane represents where that journey is heading, a crop with established large-scale agricultural systems and strong carbon reduction potential. Hyosung TNC’s sugarcane feedstock is verified through the VIVE platform.

For brands, this translates to something rare in sustainable sourcing, a bio-based spandex that performs without compromise. Hyosung Bio Spandex delivers the same durability, stretch, and recovery demanded by activewear, sportswear, and compression applications while supporting meaningful reductions in carbon footprint.

“At a moment when the industry is moving from commitments to action, Hyosung TNC offers something beyond a material; a scalable system designed to make bio-based the new baseline, not the exception,” said Sora Yoo, Vice President Marketng, Hyosung TNC. “We are excited to share how our regen™ Bio Spandex can be the solution to active and bodywear brands’ transition, powered by sugarcane at Functional Fabric Fair this April 7-9.”

CREORA® functional textiles – Designed for trends shaping tomorrow

Continuously innovating, Hyosung TNC strives to develop textile solutions for brands before they even know they need them. It anticipates what consumers will expect from their performance apparel that include multi-functional characteristics to keep wearers cool, fresh and comfortable with style.

At the show, Hyosung TNC will highlight the following CREORA® functional fibers: CREORA® Conadu Polyester, offering the soft, natural feel of cotton combined with comfortable stretch, CREORA® Coolwave Nylon that delivers continuous cooling and moisture control to help maintain long lasting freshness in active and everyday applications, and CREORA® EasyFlex Spandex, which offers a soft stretch that moves with you. It allows for size inclusivity where one size can fit various body types with lower power, and better retention rate for shape stability. A dyeable version is also available, ensuring superior color consistency and reduced grin-through.

DAY 0 and Expert Talks – experts share the latest developments sustainable innovation for a better future

Hyosung TNC is proud to be the sponsor the FFF DAY 0 Sustainability Workshop taking place April 7, 2026. Sustainability practitioners will present a pragmatic approach to foundational topics as well as some of the latest updates and developments. Manufacturers will present real-world case studies related to the topics throughout the day. Attendees will participate in round table conversations and interactive activities and will leave with new knowledge to use immediately starting on Day 1 of the Fair.

On Thursday, April 9 at 11:20 AM – 12:05 PM, Malvina Hoxha, Hyosung TNC US Marketing Director and Thomas Chiu, Research & Design Director, Chia Her will host an expert talk titled, Next Generation Bio-Based Spandex – Scaling regen™ Bio Spandex Through Fiber & Fabric Engineering. As bio-based spandex enters commercial production, mills must ensure it matches conventional spandex in performance, dye compatibility, and processing. The hosts will discuss the transition of Hyosung TNC regen™ BIO Spandex feedstock from corn to sugarcane, the scaling of its new BIO-BDO production, and the mill-level requirements needed for industry-wide adoption.

At FFF, Hyosung TNC can be found at booth 538.

Posted: April 7, 2026

Source: Hyosung TNC

Functional Fabric Fair Spring 2026: What Attendees Will Experience in Portland

NORWALK, CT — April 2, 2026 — Functional Fabric Fair powered by PERFORMANCE DAYS® returns to the Oregon Convention Center in Portland, Oregon, April 7–9, 2026, bringing together the global performance and outdoor apparel industry for three days of next-generation material sourcing, sustainability education, and future-focused textile innovation.

More than 300 sustainable-certified suppliers, including 25 first-time exhibitors, will showcase the latest functional and performance focused fabrics, trims, finishes, and textile technologies designed for the Spring/Summer 2027/2028 apparel seasons.

The event begins with the Day 0 Sustainability Workshop on April 7, followed by two full days of exhibit hall sourcing and Expert Talks programming on April 8–9. Designers, product developers, brand leaders, and material decision-makers will gather to source new materials, gain actionable insights, and explore the innovations shaping the next generation of performance apparel.

“Functional Fabric Fair continues to unite the innovators, suppliers, and brands shaping the future of responsible performance textiles,” said Steve McCullough, Event Vice President. “The Spring event delivers meaningful education, hands-on sourcing, and valuable industry connections—bringing together leading brands, forward-thinking experts, and changemakers for three days of inspiration, innovation, and opportunity.”

As brands face increasing pressure around sustainability, performance, and transparency, the Spring 2026 edition provides a critical platform for sourcing solutions and navigating the future of material innovation.

What to Experience on the Show Floor

The Spring 2026 exhibit hall is designed to help brands efficiently discover new materials and connect with the companies driving textile innovation.

Sourcing & Innovation Key Areas:

AATCC Textile Test Zone

Hands-on demonstrations of five key testing standards, including color evaluation and water resistance, with direct access to industry experts from American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists (AATCC).

Bodywear Collective

Presented by London Contour Experts

A focused showcase of innovations in swimwear, shapewear, dancewear, and sports bras, uniting performance and style in bodywear.

Cotton Forum

Presented by Cotton Incorporated

The latest in the cotton sector from enhanced performance to sustainability advancements.

Future Fabrics Expo Innovation Hub

Presented by Future Fabrics Expo

A curated selection of lower-impact materials and sustainability leaders, emphasizing regenerative design and circular material flows.

Innovation Zone

Highlights never-before-seen breakthrough textile technologies and emerging advancements, with access to insights from industry leaders.

Outdoor Recreation Archive

Presented by Utah State University and Beams

Explore the historical roots of pivotal innovations in the outdoor apparel industry.

Trend Forum

A display of future fabric and color directions across 12 key categories, with sustainability at the forefront. Curated by industry experts, including academics, apparel brands, and fabric technologists, it provides a comprehensive look at innovative materials.

Wool Forum

Explore high-performance wool fabrics and natural fiber innovation shaping the future of textiles.

Networking & Community Spaces:

Dedicated spaces throughout the show floor are designed to encourage connection, collaboration, and community.

Italian Bar

A lively spot to recharge with espresso and authentic Italian bites.

Media Lounge

A dedicated space for media to work, connect, and recharge while engaging with industry insights.

Sustainability Lounge

A central hub for collaboration, conversation, and future-focused discussions.

Thermore Coffee Igloo

Complimentary coffee both days of the show from 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM, located near the lobby/registration area. Sponsored by Thermore.

VIP Lounge

An exclusive space for VIP attendees to relax, network, and recharge.

Learn more about show floor activations and features

Events

In addition to show floor activations, attendees can engage in a series of industry events designed to foster connection and celebrate innovators.

The Forum Awards

Wednesday, April 8 | 4:30 – 4:50 PM

Celebrating the most innovative fabrics across all forums at the Expert Talks stage.

Networking Happy Hour | Sponsored by Sorona®

Wednesday, April 8 | 5:00 – 6:00 PM

An opportunity to connect and clink glasses with industry peers, taking place near the Expert Talks stage.

Official After-Hours Party | Sponsored by DURAFLEX; Co-Sponsored by Brookwood

Wednesday, April 8 | 6:30 – 10:00 PM

Metropolitan Tavern at Hotel Eastlund, Portland

An evening of networking in a relaxed, social setting.

Education

Day 0 Sustainability Workshop

April 7, 2026 | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Hyatt Regency Downtown Portland – Deschutes Ballroom

Sponsored by Hyosung TNC.

A full-day program covering regulatory updates, sustainable material strategies, and case studies. Includes networking happy hour (4:00–5:00 PM). Separate registration required.

Expert Talks

April 8–9, 2026 | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Sponsored by Sorona®

More than 10 sessions will explore textile innovation, circularity, performance science, and forecasting—Hosted by Stewart Sheppard (S2 Consulting).

View schedule details here

Hotel & Travel

Attendees can book accommodations through the official hotel block, offering discounted rates within walking distance of the Oregon Convention Center.

Registration

Functional Fabric Fair is a trade-only event and free for verified industry professionals, including designers, product developers, purchasing agents, media, and students.

The Day 0 Sustainability Workshop requires separate registration.

Posted: April 7, 2026

Source Functional Fabric Fair powered by PERFORMANCE DAYS®

 

 

DyStar Drives Sustainable Innovation At Techtextil (Germany)2026

SINGAPORE — April 7, 2026 — DyStar, a specialty chemical company with a heritage of more than a century in product development and innovation, is pleased to announce its participation at Techtextil 2026, the world’s premier trade fair for technical textiles and nonwovens. The event will take place from April 21–24, 2026 in Messe Frankfurt, Germany.

DyStar invites visitors to Hall 9.0, Booth F55 to discover its latest advancements specifically engineered for the rigorous demands of high-performance functional textiles, with a focus on sustainable dyes, chemicals, and digital solutions aimed to support the textile industry’s transition toward a greener future.

Booth Highlights:

  • High-performance bio-based products – Evo® Protect DWU and DWR
  • Latest generation of high wet fastness dyes – Dianix® Black XF3 300%
  • Invisible solution in digital camouflage printing – DyStar Jettex® Inks

Hartmut Behnke, Director of Global Marketing Auxiliaries at DyStar, said: “At Techtextil 2026, DyStar will showcase eco-friendly dyeing technologies alongside advanced textile innovations that help manufacturers reduce their environmental footprint while ensuring transparency, traceability, and compliance with global sustainability standards.”

Textile manufacturers will have the opportunity to engage directly with DyStar’s Technical Textile experts and Global Managers throughout the four-day exhibition to discuss how these solutions can help customers achieve their sustainability and performance goals across the value chain.

Posted: April 7, 2026

Source DyStar Singapore Pte Ltd

Nonwovenn Fuels Further Growth Appointment Of Dr. Nisarg Tambe As Director Of Innovation

BRIDGWATER, England — April 7, 2026 — Nonwovenn has appointed industry expert, Dr. Nisarg Tambe, as director of innovation. With his career to date spent focusing on research and development in diverse applications within the nonwoven market, Nisarg will be central to driving forward the next phase of innovation and developing cutting-edge solutions.

Dr. Nisarg Tambe

In addition, Dave Hill will be transitioning from the role of Innovations Director to the new role of Next Gen Products Director.

Nisarg joins Nonwovenn after more than a decade in the industry, bringing his knowledge and experience of the sector at a key time for the business, which was recently acquired by CorpAcq. Prior to joining the Nonwovenn team, Nisarg was Head for Research and Development for the Evolon product range at Freudenberg Performance Materials.

Nisarg has an acknowledged track record and ability to combine deep technical expertise with a strong commercial mindset, enabling organisations to translate innovation into scalable and market-leading solutions. With Nonwovenn already established in markets across the world and serving a diverse range of global customers, this appointment will further strengthen Nonwovenn’s ability to develop highly technical cutting-edge solutions that contribute to improving safety, protecting health and saving lives.

Dave Hill’s new role will involve the continuation and commercialisation of existing Nonwovenn next generation product development activities, devising and developing new collaborative development partnerships, and ensuring greater business development alignment, awareness and influence around key global markets. He will also touch upon regulatory requirement changes and influences that will shape the basis of existing products to support new product timescales.

Commenting on his appointment, Nisarg Tambe said: “What attracted me to Nonwovenn was the company’s strong reputation for developing bespoke solutions, and its position at the forefront of developing next-generation nonwoven materials for demanding applications. I’m looking forward to developing the innovation strategy for this next growth phase and supporting the development of the next cutting-edge solutions.”

Dave Hill added: “This is a tremendous opportunity to not only influence and extend the ongoing longer term development opportunities, but to explore and shape development direction in a much more strategic and influential way.”

David Lamb, Chairman of Nonwovenn, added: “Nisarg joins our team at a very important time of the business, following our acquisition and the launch of our next phase of growth. His key industry experience, combined with our drive and ambition, means we can take our innovation focus to the next level. In addition, it’s great to be transitioning Dave to a new role, which will be vital in the continuation of our next gen product development. Some very exciting changes within the business.”

Posted: April 7, 2026

Source Nonwovenn

AI, Start-Ups, Research: Techtextil And Texprocess Bring Together Players In The Textile Industry

FRANKFURT AM MAIN, Germany— April 7, 2026 — From start-ups to universities and research institutes: at Techtextil and Texprocess, the world’s leading innovation trade fairs in Frankfurt am Main, exhibitors present future-oriented concepts for the global textile industry.

Photo — Messe Frankfurt

With the international Campus & Research area, a strong participation from start-ups and the latest AI applications for textile processing, both trade fairs showcase current developments in the textile industry. By bringing together innovation, research and application, they enable new partnerships across the textile value chain.

Universities, research institutes and start-ups present their visions for the global textile industry at Techtextil and Texprocess – ranging from new materials and smart design tools to automated production chains. “Techtextil and Texprocess bring together global research with textile and user industries. This leads to new ideas and collaborations that bring innovations to the market more quickly,” says Sabine Scharrer, Director Brand Management Technical Textiles & Textile Processing at Messe Frankfurt.

Campus & Research: A global meeting point for textile research

The Campus & Research sector continues to grow and is even more international in 2026: around 40 research institutes and universities from Europe, Asia, Africa and South America share their latest findings with the textile industry here. Participants include Saxion University of Applied Sciences (Netherlands), the InnoFiber Research Lab at the University of Minho (Portugal), IMS Bauhaus Latino América (Uruguay), the Higher Institute of Technological Studies of Ksar Helal (Tunisia) and TU Dresden. The TFI – Institute for Flooring and Interior Systems at RWTH Aachen University demonstrates in a special exhibition how a textile-based guidance system for the visually impaired enables accessibility in indoor spaces. The research institutions and universities are identified by a special sign at the exhibition stand and in the online exhibitor search for visitors.

Start-ups lead the way for the textile industry

About 20 start-ups exhibit their ideas and technologies on the exhibition grounds. At Techtextil, numerous newcomers present innovative approaches to fibres and yarns: the Swiss company Climatex displays circular textile technologies and fully recyclable products, whilst qCella (Switzerland) showcases a cellulose fibre innovation and ultra-thin surface heating technology. R.O.A.M Systems (USA) presents a new type of nonwoven fabric production using additive fibre placement. At Texprocess, the Laboratory for Artificial Intelligence in Design (AiDLab, Hong Kong) demonstrates an AI-supported textile inspection technology for automated textile fault detection and real-time quality control. The Bulgarian start-up Prodactive Solutions showcases, among other things, an AI-supported SaaS platform for production control in the apparel industry. These and other start-ups can be easily found via a sign at their exhibition stands and in the online exhibitor search.

Experience AI innovations first-hand

AI can be experienced first-hand at Techtextil and Texprocess: visitors can interact with two robots at the Style 3D/Assyst booth. The company demonstrates how training software can be used to manage complex processes in apparel production. The Italian exhibitor Willy Italiana presents a checklabel machine that uses self-learning AI to inspect the quality of ribbons and labels. The Spanish exhibitor Picvisa Machine Vision Systems demonstrates how AI-supported optical sorting systems can assist recycling processes by identifying and separating textiles by material or colour. Exhibitors and presentations on the topic of AI can be easily found with the “Texpertise Focus AI” sign.

Posted: April 7, 2026

Source: Messe Frankfurt Exhibition GmbH

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