California’s Costly Fashion Burden Threatens Greenest State Status: $99 Million A Year Spent Sending Textiles To Landfill

LOS ANGELES — February 4, 2026 — California can cement its role as the nation’s leader on environmental policy by supporting textile reuse, according to a new report released today by USAgain in collaboration with Cascadia Consulting Group.

The report estimates that in 2021, nearly 1.2 million tons of textiles were sent to California landfills, creating avoidable disposal costs and environmental impacts. It estimates Californians spend around $99 million per year simply to landfill textiles that could – with improved systems and infrastructure – be reused or responsibly recycled to improve our economy and sustainable quality of life.

Under California’s Responsible Textile Recovery Act (SB 707), California is shifting the responsibility for recovery from taxpayers to producers, requiring clothing and other textile companies to fund and operate a statewide system.

Today’s report concludes that California could unlock significant benefits if a percentage of textiles could be diverted from landfill to responsible reuse and recycling markets: diverting 10% of textiles to reuse could create 1,000 green jobs, while 24% could create 2,500 jobs. The report also finds that if reused clothes replaced newly produced ones, the state could significantly reduce emissions and save resources. Up to 1.7 million metric tons of CO2 could be saved if 24% of clothes currently landfilled were put back into circulation instead – equivalent to nearly five gas-powered industrial plants.

However, there is a practical implementation challenge: improving Californians’ access to a collection system that can handle the increased recovery of used textiles. While donation bins are one of the easiest and most scalable methods to collect clothes from consumers, local siting and permitting rules can unintentionally restrict the very collection infrastructure on which SB 707 depends. Requirements such as permits, zoning limits, spacing rules, and servicing obligations may make it harder to build an accessible statewide network, particularly in communities that already lack drop-off options.

“Reuse should always come first,” said Mattias Wallander, CEO of USAgain, who commissioned the report. “Keeping clothing in use delivers the biggest environmental benefit because it preserves the water, energy, dyes, and materials already used in textile production. SB 707 is a real opportunity for California to lead, but success depends on making it simple for people to do the right thing with their unwanted clothing through convenient, community-based collection. And because international reuse markets help keep textiles circulating for longer, we also need a system that supports responsible end markets and transparency.”

“California has a strong foundation to build on,” said Julie Cerenzia, Director at Cascadia Consulting Group. “The biggest win will be designing a system that works in the real world, and an important part of that system is convenient access to collection points. Each community in California has an opportunity to support this access for its residents, including through early engagement and updated regulations. With the right implementation, SB 707 can become a landmark circular economy success.”

Key findings and what comes next:

The report outlines the scale of the opportunity and the actions needed to deliver it:

  • Scale the collection network quickly: A convenient, statewide system of used clothing collection is essential to achieving SB 707’s goals and keeping textiles out of landfills. The key is making participation in textile donation effortless, with donation bins an important part of the solution.
  • Remove friction in local siting rules for collection: City and county ordinances can be modernized to enable safe, well-managed donation bin collection points while maintaining community standards.
  • Prioritize reuse and responsible end markets: Reuse delivers the highest environmental benefit compared to recycling, incineration, or landfilling, and strong oversight and transparency can build public confidence in where used textiles go.

The report notes that the next two years of rulemaking and municipal decision-making will help determine whether SB 707 becomes a nationally recognized model for textile circularity or falls short due to implementation roadblocks.

Full report can be accessed here: https://www.usagain.com/california-textiles-epr-study

Posted: February 8, 2026

Source: USAgain

Milliken Highlights Next-Generation Polymer Solutions At PLASTINDIA 2026

PLASTINDIA 2026 Group Photo

NEW DELHI — February 5, 2026 — Milliken & Company is showcasing a full portfolio of advanced polymer innovations tailored to meet the evolving needs of the plastics industry at PLASTINDIA 2026 in New Delhi, India from February 5-10. At this year’s show, Milliken is featuring new product innovations, including the next advancement in enhancing polymers and shaping the future of the plastics industry.

For more than 60 years, Milliken has leveraged material science to deliver solutions that maximize resource efficiency and minimize resource use. At PLASTINDIA 2026, the company is spotlighting product breakthroughs designed to help customers meet ambitious manufacturing goals through enhanced product quality and improved operational productivity.

“PLASTINDIA 2026 reflects the momentum of India’s plastics industry,” said Wim Van De Velde, SVP and Managing Director for Milliken’s plastic additives business. “We’re looking forward to showcasing Milliken innovations that help converters use fewer resources and increase operational efficiency.”

Featured innovations at PLASTINDIA include:

  • Millad ClearX™ 9000: This next-generation clarification technology for polypropylene (PP) delivers ultra-clear transparency at reduced additive loading levels. Millad ClearX™ 9000 enhances additive compatibility to help resin producers and converters experience less downtime, less waste, and quicker changeovers—delivering measurable improvements in manufacturing efficiency. Ideal for food packaging, home storage, and medical applications, it sets a new standard for value, aesthetics, and operational efficiency in transparent PP applications.
  • Hyperform® HPN®: Milliken’s nucleating agents transform polypropylene performance. They deliver crisper aesthetics, faster cycle times, and food-contact confidence—all while improving optical clarity, reducing haze, and ensuring isotropic shrinkage. Perfect for injection molding and thin-wall applications, these solutions work across homopolymer, impact, and block copolymer PP.
  • LeneX™ UGN-52: Milliken’s latest barrier improvement technology enhances the performance of HDPE and LLDPE films, containers, pouches, and pharmaceutical bottles. These solutions enable downgauging to reduce material usage and part weight while also improving barrier properties in polyethylene (PE), allowing designers to create more mono-material products, thus improving recycling compatibility.
  • DeltaMax®: Performance modifiers that maximize the physical properties and processability of virgin and recycled PP. This product balances melt flow and impact strength, to increase overall performance for polypropylene. It also helps converters reduce energy by running machines with faster cycle times or lower temperatures.
  • KeyPlast®: Dyes for transparency and brightness across polymer systems, including polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polystyrene (PS), polycarbonate (PC), polylactic acid, and acrylic.
  • RESIST XTR™: Milliken RESIST™ XTR offers an expanded portfolio of colorants, including highly chromatic oranges designed to meet the extreme colorant performance required for demanding applications such as high-voltage battery connectors in electric vehicles (EVs). Formulated for extreme temperature processing, these high-performance colorants for engineered polymers deliver excellent thermal stability, improved lightfastness, and UV weather resistance.
  • EXPLAZ™: EXPLAZ is a laser marking additive that optimizes laser marketing in polyamides. EXPLAZ’s naturally white appearance optimizes laser marking in polyamides making it uniquely suitable for white or brightly colored polyamide compounds, ensuring minimal visual impact on the base polymer. With effective performance using loadings as low as 0.2% LDR, EXPLAZ delivers both optimized processing and uncompromised aesthetics.

From ClearShield™ ultraviolet (UV) absorbers to ClearTint™ polymeric colorants and much more, Milliken’s chemical products add value across several industries. Milliken’s team is on hand throughout PLASTINDIA 2026 to provide in-depth consultations and discuss how these innovations can be adapted to enhance manufacturing processes and end products. Attendees are encouraged to schedule meetings with Milliken experts to explore customized solutions for their specific industry needs.

Visit the Milliken booth, Hall 4F, B09, at PLASTINDIA 2026 for more information.

Posted: February 6, 2026

Source: Milliken & Company

Canada Goose Appoints Patrick Bourke As President, North America

TORONTO — February 5, 2026 —  Canada Goose Holdings Inc. today announced the appointment of Patrick Bourke as President, North America, effective February 5, 2026. Bourke will oversee the brand’s North American business with responsibility for driving brand momentum, strengthening retail and wholesale execution, and deepening consumer connections across the region.

He will partner closely with the global leadership team to advance the company’s operating imperatives, with a focus on brand heat, strategic channel expansion, and operating with pace and accountability.

“Patrick is an action‑oriented, high‑energy leader with a strong track record of delivering results,” said Dani Reiss, Chairman & CEO of Canada Goose. “He brings deep strategic expertise, commercial acumen, operational rigor, and a collaborative leadership style. Patrick has helped shape and accelerate important revenue growth and profit margin expansion initiatives for our company, and I’m confident he will continue to build momentum across North America.”

Bourke brings a proven commercial track record, having led Investor Relations, Strategy, Business Development, Indirect Procurement and Go-To-Market over his nearly ten years at Canada Goose. He has strengthened the company’s partner ecosystem, advanced key strategic relationships, and supported the company’s global expansion. He is also known as a disciplined cost‑management leader, driving meaningful savings through supplier optimization and spend governance. In parallel, he has worked cross‑functionally to accelerate go‑to‑market timelines and simplify processes to better support our evolving product strategy.

“Canada Goose is an exceptional brand with a strong foundation and an incredibly talented team,” said Patrick Bourke. “Stepping into this role, my focus is on working closely across the region to drive meaningful growth and ensure we’re delivering the kind of experiences our consumers expect from us — sharp, agile, and truly best‑in‑class.”

Posted: February 6, 2026

Source: Canada Goose Holdings Inc.

KARL MAYER:Textile Game Changers At Techtextil And The Opening Of The TEXTILE INNOVATION CENTER In Obertshausen

OBERTSHAUSEN, Germany — February 5, 2026 —  KARL MAYER is once again focusing consistently on its core technologies – warp knitting, warp preparation and technical textiles – and is driving textile innovation forward with greater determination than ever.

KARL MAYER will be demonstrating how customers can benefit directly from this realignment at Techtextil in Frankfurt am Main from 21 to 24 April. In hall 12.0 at booth B79 at Messe Frankfurt, an exhibition clearly focused on the future will welcome visitors: the latest textile developments, fresh ideas for expanding their businesses and exciting ideas for new markets – complemented with many opportunities to swap ideas with the company’s textile experts.

As an absolute highlight marking Techtextil, KARL MAYER is opening its new TEXTILE INNOVATION CENTER (TIC) in nearby Obertshausen, parallel to the trade fair. Throughout its Opening Week, trade fair visitors in particular are invited to experience this new hotspot for the future of textiles in person.

KARL MAYER opens up new opportunities

Technical warp knits are full of surprises and innovative potential, as the hollow fibre mats produced by KARL MAYER warp knitting machines with weft insertion demonstrate impressively. With their permeable surfaces, these high-performance structures take on very special tasks. As ‘artificial lungs’, they enrich blood outside the body with oxygen, clean the ink from printer cartridges and even carbonate drinks. They open up completely new perspectives, especially in filtration technology. KARL MAYER will be demonstrating how efficiently these hollow fibre warp knits can be produced during the Opening Week in Obertshausen, where the production machine will offer exciting performance demonstrations.

In addition, the diverse reinforcement fabrics produced on KARL MAYER multiaxial machines are paving the way for new applications. These will also be on display at the company’s 60 m² exhibition booth.

A further highlight of KARL MAYER’s booth will be the area of functional clothing. Visitors can look forward to innovative solutions for defense, workwear and sun protection. KARL MAYER has developed special items for the carefree enjoyment of the outdoors in summer and tested their UV protection properties. The results of the tests will be presented at Techtextil.

Warp knits ensure style, comfort and safety from head to toe: a collection of highly fashionable leisure and sports shoes demonstrates the creative potential of KARL MAYER’s efficient high-performance warp knitting machines in the production of sought-after shoe fabrics.

The trade show presentation is rounded off by a video presentation on warp preparation. KARL MAYER is the only full-range supplier in this field on the market – a truly unique selling point.

Take a deeper dive into the world of our exhibits

Anyone who would like to find out more about the exhibits and their efficient production on KARL MAYER machines is cordially invited to the opening of the TIC in Obertshausen. Here, guests can discover the fascinating textile universe of KARL MAYER: inspiring pioneering textile solutions from the archive and development laboratory, as well as a modern machine area for implementing new ideas and conducting processing tests. Visitors can explore the technological and economic potential of innovative approaches in direct conversation with the experts. KARL MAYER looks forward to welcoming you!

Stay ahead of the crowd – pre-register at: https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=wN-xQvoWVUme0yq53uw9Hp6EVE41oPtGtA5BADYEQ1BUME1NQlczNDNSUVBOR0wxRTdBUkc1RDA0UC4u&route=shorturl&wdLOR=c80D4957B-1DA5-474F-8EC1-008AD2A42B33

Posted: February 6, 2026

Source: KARL MAYER

Registration Now Open For Functional Fabric Fair Spring 2026 In Portland

NORWALK, CT  — February 3, 2026 — Registration is now open for the Spring 2026 edition of Functional Fabric Fair powered by PERFORMANCE DAYS®, taking place April 7–9, 2026 at the Oregon Convention Center in Portland.

The event will open with the Day 0 Sustainability Workshop on April 7, followed by two full days of exhibit hall sourcing and Expert Talks educational programming on April 8 and 9, bringing together designers, product developers and material decision-makers focused on performance, sustainability and innovation for the Spring 2027/2028 seasons.

Functional Fabric Fair continues to evolve as the most focused sourcing and education platform for the performance and outdoor textile industry,” said Steve McCullough, Event Vice President. “Spring 2026 in Portland reflects where the market is headed, with deeper supplier engagement, more actionable education, and a clear emphasis on circularity and material responsibility. From expanded innovation showcases to new conversations around textile-to-textile recycling: the role of collectors and sorters, this edition is designed to help brands move from inspiration to implementation.”

Key Program Highlights

Day 0 Sustainability Workshop

The full-day Day 0 Sustainability Workshop, returns on April 7 and will be curated and facilitated by Todd Copeland of Copeland Consultancy LLC, Eric Brody of Soft Advantage and Kevin Myette of bluesign technologies. Developed in response to attendee feedback, the program will feature pragmatic approaches to foundational sustainability topics, the latest field developments and regulatory updates, real-world case studies, and interactive roundtable discussions designed to support informed decision-making across the supply chain. The Day 0 Sustainability Workshop requires separate paid registration and has limited seating availability.

Exhibit Hall and Features

The Spring 2026 exhibit hall will feature 250+ sustainable-certified suppliers presenting functional fabrics, finishes, trims, accessories and material innovations. Attendees will have access to daily Expert Talks education sessions, live demonstrations, and curated discovery areas including the Trend Forum, Bodywear Collective, Innovation Hub, Wool Forum, Future Fabrics Expo Innovation Hub and the Cotton Forum. Dedicated networking spaces such as the Sustainability Lounge and Media Lounge, along with happy hours and social gatherings, will further support meaningful industry connection.

Textile-to-Textile Recycling Focus

Spring 2026 will continue building on last season’s focus on recyclers, this new edition moves one step earlier in the circular value chain. Collectors and sorters are the gatekeepers of textile-to-textile recycling who determine whether used textiles become new fibers or end up as waste.

This Focus Topic explores the possibilities, challenges and innovations defining this crucial first step from efficient systems and smart technologies to cross-sector collaboration.

Seasonal Functional Fabric Fair Events in 2026

Functional Fabric Fair takes place seasonally across four North American editions, including Winter in Orlando, Spring in Portland, Summer in New York City, and Fall in Portland. Each event delivers a consistent focus on responsible sourcing, education and vetted supplier access tailored to seasonal market needs

Registration Information

Functional Fabric Fair is a trade-only event and is free to verified designers, product developers, purchasing agents, material managers and students in the outdoor, performance, and lifestyle apparel sectors. The Day 0 Sustainability Workshop requires separate registration and seating is limited.

For full show information, registration links, and updates on all 2026 editions, visit www.functionalfabricfair.com.

Posted: February 6, 2026

Source: Functional Fabric Fair powered by PERFORMANCE DAYS® / RX Global

Sicomin To Highlight CMR-Free Technology And Debut Dedicated Greenpoxy Stand In JEC World 2026 Bio-Materials Village

CHATEAUNEUF LES MARTIGUES, France — February 3, 2026 — JEC World 2026 will see Sicomin exhibit with an enhanced focus on sustainable composite innovation. The leading international supplier of epoxy resin systems will showcase new CMR-free products as well as expand its exhibition presence to reflect the growing momentum around its bio resin brand GreenPoxy.

In addition to its flagship stand in Hall 6, Sicomin will launch a second dedicated GreenPoxy stand within the Bio-Materials Village in Hall 5, that will be hosted by the Alliance of European Flax-Linen & Hemp and JEC Composites.

GreenPoxy Joins Natural Materials Village

The decision to establish a standalone GreenPoxy presence reinforces Sicomin’s significant investment in bio-based materials and highlights the growing credibility and market traction of the GreenPoxy brand. With the largest range of bio-based epoxy materials currently available on the market, now covering 70% of its product range, GreenPoxy serves several composite sectors at industrial scale and caters for most manufacturing processes.

“Natural fibres like flax and hemp are rapidly gaining traction in automotive, marine, architecture, sport and industrial applications, thanks to their versatility, lower environmental impact and performance benefits,” said Ken Marcovich, CEO, Sicomin.  “The Alliance of European Flax, Linen & Hemp’s efforts to promote these materials is commendable and we are very excited to join the Bio-Materials Village alongside them. This gives us an invaluable opportunity to showcase collaborative projects and aligned innovations that demonstrate the natural synergy between bio-based resins and natural reinforcements.”

New CMR-Free Systems

Continuing its mission to convert key traditional products to CMR-free formulations (made with no Carcinogenic, Mutagenic, and Reprotoxic substances), Sicomin will also unveil several significant additions to its portfolio at JEC World 2026.

Sicomin’s SR GreenPoxy® 550 is a high-performance bio-based epoxy resin formulated with a significant proportion of plant-derived carbon and certified to ASTM D6866 standards. The system is entirely CMR-free, providing users with a cleaner and safer system while maintaining the mechanical strength and reliability for demanding applications.

Already adopted in advanced marine and structural composite projects, SR GreenPoxy 550 delivers excellent handling characteristics and strong adhesion across a wide range of substrates, including wood and natural fibres. Suitable for structural bonding, lamination and protective applications, it is compatible with multiple hardener options to allow precise control over working time and cure profiles, making it well suited to both bespoke and industrial composite manufacturing.

SR 8100 EVO is an infusion system combining proven high performance with a significantly improved health and safety profile. Fully CMR-free, the reformulated system brings big workshop environment improvements while also meeting the increasing regulatory and sustainability expectations of industrial composite manufacturers. Optimised for resin infusion and RTM processes, SR 8100 Evo delivers very low viscosity, excellent fibre wet-out and reliable flow behaviour, enabling consistent, high-quality laminates even in large or complex parts.

Unique Innovation in Transportation, Aerospace and Civil Engineering

In addition to new products and new stands, visitors to the Sicomin and GreenPoxy stands will also experience an array of applications that demonstrate the performance capabilities of its systems.

  • RMB01 Motorcycle by Brough Superior – This unique luxury motorcycle features carbon parts made with Sicomin’s high-performance SR 1710 infusion system.
  • AerialMetric Drone – An advanced UAV manufactured using Sicomin’s SR Infugreen 810 infusion resin and the high-modulus SR 1700 hand laminating resin, demonstrating the performance potential in lightweight aerospace applications.
  • Aircraft Propellor – An aircraft propellor for Axsport Aviation manufactured using RTM processing of SR Infugreen 810 resin.
  • Award-Winning Mataf Expansion Ceiling – A section of the composite ceiling developed by UAE-based Premier Composite Technologies using Sicomin’s fire-retardant epoxy systems for the Holy Mosque expansion in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. The project won the Construction Week Awards 2025 trophy for Offsite Project of the Year.

“Doubling our presence at JEC World 2026 gives us a unique opportunity to showcase our full range of sustainable innovations,” said Ken Marcovich. “I’m excited to meet with industry leaders, existing partners, and new contacts at both of our stands to explore how our CMR-free technologies and bio-based GreenPoxy solutions can help shape the future of composites.”

Posted: February 6, 2026

Source: Sicomin

Designtex Adds To Its Biobased Coated Offerings With Terrene + Mote

NEW YORK, NY — February 2, 2026 — Designtex, a designer and manufacturer of applied materials for the built environment, has released Terrene and Mote, expanding its biobased coated textile offerings. Designed for comfort and connection, both designs bring an inviting warmth to contemporary spaces through the use of layered tactile and visual textures combined with neutrals to create environments that feel calm, human, and restorative.

Biobased materials are partially or entirely made from renewable biological resources such as plants, animal fibers, algae, fungi, or agricultural and forestry byproducts. For Terrene and Mote, third-party ASTM D6866 testing verifies their 12% biobased content, with Designtex providing documentation for reporting to any sustainability program.

Terrene features an asymmetrical, layered stripe that explores rhythm through subtle shifts in scale and proportion. Multi-colored bands gather depth from visual overlays, creating a dynamic sense of movement. The result is a biobased coated textile that feels both graphic and grounded – an elevated, modern echo of natural landscapes.

Mote is a biobased coated textile that balances structure with softness in a refined textural solid. A tailored grid settles over an organic ground, introducing quiet movement and subtle dimensionality. This interplay of order and irregularity lends Mote a crafted, tactile quality suited to a wide range of environments. For further customization, DS Mote has been added to Designtex Digital Studio and is available in six presets and two scales for wallcovering, upholstery and multiuse applications.

“With Terrene and Mote, we expand on what biobased coated textiles can be – layered, expressive, and deeply livable,” says Sara Balderi, Executive Design Director, Designtex. “It offers designers more choice without compromise, aligning performance, comfort, and responsible material innovation.”

Both designs are manufactured without Antimicrobials, Flame Retardants, PFAS, Phthalates, and PVCs. In addition, both are rewarded in the following industry programs: ASTM D6866 Biobased Content, Healthier Hospitals, LEED, REACH, WELL, GREENGUARD Gold, and No Prop 65 Warning Required.

Posted: February 6, 2026

Source: Designtex

RUDOLF Gets The Exclusive Global Distribution Rights For Sanitized® Textile Technologies

BURGDORF, Switzerland/ GERETSRIED, Germany— February 1, 2026 — With effect from today, RUDOLF officially assumes exclusive global distribution rights for Sanitized® textile technologies from SANITIZED AG. This is the next milestone in the strategic collaboration announced in 2025, with the partnership between the two companies now fully implemented and expanded worldwide.

A transition phase began on September 1, 2025. During this phase, continuous customer supply and technical support were ensured jointly. This phase has now been successfully completed, paving the way for long-term global cooperation. It strengthens the international supply chain by ensuring a consistent and dependable global supply of products and services.

Textile technologies from SANITIZED: Innovation, hygiene & functionality

With textile technologies from SANITIZED, RUDOLF is expanding its already comprehensive portfolio along the entire textile value chain – from pretreatment and finishing to solutions that make the functional added value tangible for end consumers.

Sanitized® technologies ideally complement this offering, as they cover key functions such as odor control, hygiene, freshness, and material protection. The portfolio focuses on three technological platforms.

Sanitized® Odorex™ comprises biocide-free technologies for odor neutralization, especially for easily washable textiles. These solutions offer effective odor management without biocidal substances and are ideal for brands that focus on conscious material selection, sustainable freshness, and high comfort.

Sanitized® Puretec™ offers high-performance odor control solutions. The technologies are based on antimicrobial mechanisms and provide clothing and home textiles with an integrated hygiene function. These solutions ensure long-lasting freshness, reduce unpleasant odors, and enhance comfort.

Sanitized® Silvertec™ is characterized by its high resistance to washing, dry cleaning, and high temperatures. By inhibiting bacterial growth, it prevents odors from forming, making it a valuable technology, especially for textiles that are worn for long periods of time or are difficult to wash.

In addition to its core portfolio, SANITIZED offers additional technologies for special applications in particularly demanding areas of use where a strong fungicidal or insecticidal effect is required. These technologies provide targeted and reliable material protection under difficult conditions.

Non-biocidal odor management for lasting freshness

OX20 is an innovative, non-biocidal technology that complements the joint portfolio: it neutralizes odors not through chemical-biological mechanisms, but through physical adsorption. OX20 is bluesign certified and a GOTS- approved additive. OX20 offers particularly reliable, long-lasting performance – even after many wash cycles. The technology can be flexibly integrated into existing finishing processes, is compatible with numerous fibers, and is ideal for demanding textile applications such as activewear, underwear, or workwear. Thanks to RUDOLF’s excellent technical service for its customers, it is also ensured that different functional technologies – for example, non- biocidal odor control combined with high-quality hydrophilic finishes for activewear – are optimally coordinated and work together perfectly in application.

On February 1, 2026, RUDOLF will officially take over the complete exclusive distribution rights for Sanitized® textile technologies. By bundling all products and services with a single global partner, customers benefit from a clear, uniform point of contact for advice, product orders, and technical support:

SANITIZED and RUDOLF combine their international presence with strong local proximity, giving customers more direct access to contact persons, faster response times, and reliable technical support. The combination of the two companies’ expertise ensures that brands and manufacturers worldwide have access to first-class technologies and a globally available supply chain that provides that provides them with sustainable support in the development of innovative and durable textiles.

Posted: February 6, 2026

Source: SANITIZED AG / Rudolf Holding SE & Co. KG

Cinte Techtextil China 2026: Redefining Business Encounters For Trending Sub-Sectors And Cutting-Edge Technologies

SHANGHAI — February 2, 2026 — The essence of a good trade fair is to create chance encounters to deliver tangible business value to its participants. Driven to stay ahead, Cinte Techtextil China is constantly seeking fresh strategies to keep the industry attuned to emerging trends, pinpointing high-potential segments for technical textiles and nonwovens. With a new zone and upgraded fringe events introduced, the last edition saw an impressive 17% increase in visiting numbers[1], and this year’s fair is set to leverage that success from 1 to 3 September at the Shanghai New International Expo Centre.

In addition to reinstating the high-traffic Textile Chemicals and Dyes Zone and European Zone, Cinte Techtextil China 2026 will step up its efforts to promote artificial intelligence (AI), which is now gaining traction across textile applications. By compiling the upgraded AI Panel Discussion, Econogy Tour, Sustainability Forum and other target-specific fringe events, the 2026 fair will be a vibrant hub capable of addressing evolving industry needs.

When outlining the upcoming fair’s priorities, Ms Wilmet Shea, General Manager of Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd, said: “Well-crafted opportunities are impactful catalysts for business expansion. For over 30 years, Cinte Techtextil China has been well-supported by professional networks from the East and West, and effective when introducing forward-looking concepts and zones.

Both exhibitors and visitors deemed the past edition a cradle for new opportunities, benefitting from targeted, expansive business encounters, especially those joining for the first time. In 2026, we will remain focused on identifying high-potential areas, such as AI and textile chemicals & dyes, elevating the presence of key segments to help reshape the industry.”

Advocating for AI in the pursuit of innovation and sustainability

Fuelled by the quest for better quality, efficiency and sustainability, the incorporation of AI technologies and smart materials in textiles is on the rise. Valued at USD 4.12 billion in 2025, the global AI in textile market is expected to hit USD 68.44 billion in 2035 with a CAGR of 32.5%[2]. Of all the regions, Asia-Pacific remained at the forefront in 2024.

As an international fair serving APAC and beyond, Cinte Techtextil China will lead efforts to promote AI topics onsite, encouraging exhibitors to show their competitive edge. Under the umbrella of Messe Frankfurt’s Texpertise Network, the fair will align with the budding concept “Texpertise Focus AI”. In service of this concept, the AI Panel Discussion will experience an upgrade this year, with more curated content to promote inspiration and meaningful collaboration.

“We have been in touch with many potential clients, who still have limited understanding of AI,”, said Prof Calvin Wong, CEO & Centre Director of Laboratory for Artificial Intelligence in Design (AiDLab)[3], an exhibitor and speaker at the 2025 edition. A prominent figure in the field, Prof Wong saw the panel discussion as a critical educational platform to clarify AI concepts and applications, particularly in fabric inspection, while highlighting the innovations in AiDLab’s technology.

“A lot of participants asked relevant questions about factory operations,” said Prof Wong. “Academia-industry collaboration is essential for R&D projects, as understanding industry needs is key to producing effective, transferable research results. By participating in trade fairs, we gain direct insights from potential clients, allowing us to adjust our technology to better meet market demands. Exhibiting and speaking at the fair maximised our communication and connection with both new and existing clients.”

Cinte Techtextil China as a springboard for fresh and renewed encounters

A daughter show of the Techtextil flagship, Cinte Techtextil China is uniquely positioned in Asia as a platform that represents the full spectrum of technical textiles and nonwovens. The previous edition also added an entirely new product category – textile chemicals and dyes – and its debut zone, to open new business avenues for the industry. Leveraging the zone’s spotlight, first-time exhibitors such as Dupre Minerals, Michelman and others found business value at the fair.

Having received over 80 enquiries in two days, Mr Reece Berrisford, Sales Manager of Dupre Minerals, said: “Chinese visitors appreciate seeing new European suppliers, and we’ve identified new potential markets for filtration and air conditioning fabrics. We believe China’s demand for innovative solutions is strong, particularly in fire protection. The potential customers we met are mainly Chinese – our target – with the rest from Brazil, Mexico, South Africa, Spain, Sri Lanka, and more.”

Other exhibitors also found the 2025 edition an invaluable opportunity to access Chinese and global buyers. In turn, buyers appreciated the chance for global connections and quality discussions with exhibitors hailing from 12 countries and regions.

Looking for special materials, high-end technology and particularly automotive items, Mr Harald Bartisch, CEO of Blue Brain Alpha Science Coaching/Consulting from Austria, commented in 2025: “The fair’s internationality allowed me to discover unique materials and techniques from various places, including European countries like Germany, as well as Saudi Arabia, Hong Kong and around the world. There are a lot of foreign visitors here as well. Spanning three halls, the fair is a sizable, effective sourcing platform – it’s easy to meet people face-to-face and to see the products.”

Highlights in 2026

Building on the momentum, Cinte Techtextil China will continue to feature its reputable European Zone, Textile Chemicals and Dyes Zone, and various target-specific fringe events to encourage productive connections. On top of an expanded AI Panel Discussion, the Econogy Tour and Sustainability Forum will remain committed to driving a smooth eco-transition through expert guidance. Visitors can also gain the latest insights from events such as the China International Nonwovens Conference (CINC), the Innovation Product Award and Presentation, and more.

The past edition attracted nearly 20,000 visits from 74 countries and regions. With new focuses and possibilities unfolding, Cinte Techtextil China is ready to foster yet another year of dynamic engagement, transformative practices, and partnerships for sustainable development.

The fair’s product categories cover 12 application areas, which comprehensively span a full range of potential uses in modern technical textiles and nonwovens. These categories also cover the entire industry, from upstream technology and raw materials providers to finished fabrics, chemicals and other solutions. This scope of product groups and application areas ensures that the fair is an effective business platform for the entire industry.

Cinte Techtextil China will be held September 1 – 3, 2026.

The fair is organised by Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd; the Sub-Council of Textile Industry, CCPIT; and the China Nonwovens & Industrial Textiles Association (CNITA).

[1] As compared to 2024.

[2] “AI in Textile Market Size to Worth USD 68.44 Billion by 2035”, November 2025, Globe Newswire, https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2025/11/19/3190639/0/en/AI-in-Textile-Market-Size-to-Worth-USD-68-44-Billion-by-2035.html, (Retrieved: January 2026)

[3] Jointly established by The Hong Kong Polytechnic University and the UK’s Royal College of Art, under HKSAR government funding.

Posted: February 6, 2026

Source: Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd

INDA Featured On Episode Of Search Engine Podcast, “Are Flushable Wipes Actually Flushable”

CARY, N.C. — February 4, 2026 — INDA, the Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry, announced today that Wes Fisher, Director of Government Relations, recently appeared as a guest on the popular podcast Search Engine in an episode titled “Are Flushable Wipes Actually Flushable?” In the episode Fisher provided insights into the nonwovens sector and represented INDA’s perspective on flushability standards that confirm when a wipe can be marketed as flushable.

The episode provided a well-balanced take on the misbelief that flushable wipes are the culprit of wastewater clogs, which is demonstrably not true. That said, it is important to ensure consumers understand the distinction between flushable and non-flushable wipes.

“I was delighted to highlight several important topics with the Search Engine team, including sharing results of the California Collection study that showed the importance of Do Not Flush labeling for non-flushable wipes and clarified that flushable wipes do not contribute to wastewater system issues,” said Fisher. “INDA is committed to advancing science-based methods to ensure that all products labeled flushable behave as intended in wastewater environments.”

Making up about 10% of wipes sold in the U.S., Flushable wipes are almost exclusively used as moist toilet tissue and are made from wood pulp and short plant-based fibers that are engineered to disperse in water similar to dry toilet paper.

Non-flushable wipes, on the other hand, make up around 90% of wipes sold and are made with long fibers that are meant to be durable to ensure product performance. Common non-flushable wipes including baby wipes, cleaning wipes, and makeup removal wipes, which all prominently feature a Do Not Flush symbol on packaging.

This podcast episode was published on January 30th. Search “flushable wipes” and listen to the episode here: https://www.searchengine.show/

Search Engine

Hosted by PJ Vogt, Search Engine explores intriguing questions about technology, society, and everyday phenomena. Search Engine was named one of the 100 Best Podcasts of All Time in 2025 by Time Magazine.

Posted: February 4, 2026

Source: INDA, The Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry

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