PARIS — April 1, 2026 — Reju™, the progressive textile-to-textile regeneration company, has been awarded €135 million in funding under the Netherlands’ Nationale Investeringsregeling Klimaatprojecten Industrie (NIKI) program. The funding will support Reju’s planned industrial-scale Regeneration Hub at Chemelot Industrial Park in Sittard-Geleen, covering both the investment phase and ongoing operations, and represents a critical milestone on the path toward final investment decision.
Patrik Frisk
“We are grateful to the Government of the Netherlands and the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate for supporting the scale-up of commercial technologies that can deliver measurable emissions reductions and accelerate the transition to a truly circular textile industry,” said Patrik Frisk, CEO of Reju.
“This award is a strong vote of confidence in our technology and our team. At Chemelot, we will deliver circular raw materials at scale, reduce emissions across textile value chains, and establish a replicable blueprint for circular textiles in Europe.”
NIKI is the Dutch government’s flagship program to accelerate large-scale industrial decarbonization and circularity, supporting both national and European Union circular economy objectives. Reju’s project is closely aligned with these goals, expanding a textile-to-textile process that converts difficult-to-recycle, polyester-containing textiles into high-quality circular intermediates for new polyester production. By diverting residual textile fractions from landfill and incineration, Reju, aims to materially reduce the environmental impact of textile waste.
Example rendering of a Reju Regeneration Hub.
The future Regeneration Hub will process post-consumer textiles that would otherwise enter the waste stream. This regenerated output will be transformed into Reju Polyester, delivering approximately 50% lower carbon emissions compared with virgin polyester. The material will then be reintroduced into downstream supply chains, where it will be converted into yarns and fabrics ready for end-use consumer applications.
The project is expected to emphasize industrial integration, energy and resource efficiency, and fully traceable circular supply chains, maximizing the displacement of virgin, fossil-based inputs.
Chemelot Industrial Park was selected for its established industrial ecosystem, shared utilities and logistics infrastructure, and proximity to innovation and research capabilities. These attributes are expected to support efficient ramp-up, operational reliability, and the replication of the model across future sites.
WACO, Texas — March 31, 2026 — Revitalign® by Waco Shoe Company, a trusted leader in the orthotic footwear and insole market, launched its innovative Performance Socks. This new line is engineered with advanced technical features to provide unparalleled comfort and support, whether in the gym or at the office.
“Every element for our Performance Socks was chosen to solve a problem, from the friction-free heel to the arch-hugging compression,” said Jeff Antonioli, co-owner of Waco Shoe Company. “We want people to feel the Revitalign® difference from the ground up, and that starts with a sock that works as hard as they do.”
The Revitalign® Performance Socks are designed to meet the demands of a dynamic lifestyle. Recognizing that support shouldn’t end with shoes, the company developed a sock that incorporates biomechanical technology to enhance foot wellness throughout the day.
Each pair is crafted with a focus on technical innovation. Key features include a Y-Shaped heel design to prevent rubbing and a seamless toe to eliminate irritation. For superior impact absorption, the socks have a 360-degree cushioned heel zone and additional forefoot padding.
The signature PWR-BRIDGE compression band delivers targeted support to the medial and lateral arches, while a wide toebox allows toes to splay naturally for better balance and comfort. The breathable Cotton/Spandex blend fabric also ensures feet stay cool and dry for all-day wearability.
The collection is available in an extensive unisex size range, covering Women’s 5-14.5 and Men’s 6-15.5 in three versatile colors: heathered black, heathered grey and white. Revitalign® Performance Socks are now available for purchase through Revitalign.com.
Revitalign®
Revitalign® by Waco Shoe Company, a trusted leader in orthotic footwear, creates quality sandals, shoes, slippers and boots that feel great all day. The Waco, Texas-based company offers a variety of men’s and women’s footwear designed with innovative, comfortable and orthotic-driven footbeds. Revitalign® is available online at Nordstrom, QVC, Amazon and your local specialty shoe retailer. Learn more at Revitalign.com.
PORTLAND, Ore. and TAIPEI — March 30, 2026 — Brands don’t just need better fabric. They need an integrated partner capable of bridging the gap between raw material innovation and market-ready execution.
At Functional Fabric Fair Spring 2026, Makalot Industrial Co., Ltd. presents a connected view of material development, product creation, and manufacturing execution, brought to life through new collections, fabric platforms, and smart textile innovations.
Material Intelligence in Motion: The “Post-Apocalyptic Trail”
The “Post-Apocalyptic Trail” collection defines Makalot’s approach to everyday performance. It showcases exactly what is possible when material innovation and product development are engineered in tandem from the start. Designed for the unpredictability of modern life, the collection features modular constructions, multi-pocket systems, and distressed textures that gain character through use. These elements are supported by abrasion resistance, water repellency, UV protection, and easy-care fabrication. Each piece transcends its technical attributes, creating a final product where the fabric and the function are indistinguishable.
Four Fabric Platforms, One Development Toolkit
This integration of material and design thinking extends across Makalot’s four fabric platforms: SENSORY MATTER, STRUCTURED DIMENSION, KINETIC PERFORMANCE, and CIRCULAR MATERIALS. Rather than simple material offerings, these platforms serve as a foundation for product development. This allows brand partners to transition seamlessly from material concept to final product, leveraging Makalot’s design and manufacturing intelligence integrated from day one.
Smart Textiles in Action
Makalot’s WIIM platform integrates multi-patented technology directly into the material DNA. By prioritizing safety and wearability, the platform expands the boundaries of what a garment can do. From physiological-signal sensing and integrated climate control to motion-capture and muscle-stimulation, WIIM provides the architecture for the next generation of active apparel.
FFF SP26 highlights include:
LIGHTFIBER — a patented electroluminescent fiber and the world’s first wearable neon light, offering up to 100 meters of visibility for activewear and nighttime outdoor use
Elastic Conductor — a stretchable electronic conductor tested through more than 2,200 wash cycles
Smart Tracking — RFID fibers and dual-frequency labels enabling inventory management and consumer-facing features
Heated Vest (co-developed with Clim8) — lightweight, washable, battery-powered, with app-controlled heat adjustment
From Material to Market: Global Reliability and Nearshore Agility in El Salvador
Material innovation only creates value when it successfully reaches the market. Makalot operates a strategic manufacturing network across six countries, including a nearshore facility in El Salvador serving the U.S. market. This global footprint provides the supply chain flexibility and delivery reliability required to turn advanced material development into finished garments. From material concept to global market, the infrastructure for scale is already in place.
Experience Active Material Intelligence at Functional Fabric Fair Booth #135. Join Makalot from April 7–9 at the Oregon Convention Center in Portland.
Makalot Industrial Co., Ltd.
Founded in 1990 in Taiwan, Makalot Industrial Co., Ltd. is a global apparel manufacturing partner with over 33,000 employees worldwide, providing integrated OEM/ODM services across material innovation, product design, and garment production. Makalot partners with major brands across the United States, Europe, and Asia, delivering end-to-end apparel solutions with a focus on flexibility, quality, and reliable execution.
LEXINGTON, Ky. — March 30, 2026 — GALLS®, a supplier of uniforms and equipment for America’s public safety professionals, has announced the acquisition of CMS Uniforms and Equipment, Inc., a prominent regional provider based in Nashville, Tennessee. This strategic acquisition establishes GALLS® as the market leader in Tennessee and further reinforces the company’s dedication to providing reliable, high-quality gear to first responders across North America.
The acquisition brings together GALLS’® national logistics capabilities and extensive product line with CMS Uniforms’ localized expertise and strong client relationships. By integrating CMS Uniforms’ operations, GALLS® expands its footprint in key locations, including Nashville. This expansion ensures that law enforcement, firefighters, paramedics, and other public safety professionals have faster, more efficient access to the critical apparel and equipment necessary for their daily operations.
Mike Fadden, CEO of GALLS® stated, “We are proud to welcome CMS Uniforms to the GALLS® family. Their team shares our unwavering dedication to the men and women who protect our communities. By combining CMS’s local expertise and strong relationships in Nashville and Louisville with GALLS’® comprehensive resources and technological solutions, we are ensuring that Tennessee’s public safety professionals have the reliable equipment and uniform solutions they need to operate safely and effectively.”
CMS Uniforms, founded in 2000, has built a reputation for delivering stellar customer service and managing complex uniform programs for over 670 accounts. The company currently supports thousands of personnel, including police officers, deputy sheriffs, and firefighters. The integration of CMS Uniforms into the GALLS® network allows these agencies to benefit from enhanced resources while maintaining the local service touch they trust. The combined entity creates a seamless operation dedicated to reducing equipment-delivery response times and ensuring agencies remain mission-ready.
“It has been our honor to serve those who serve our communities for more than two decades. Throughout this journey, CMS has remained committed to the same passion for service that defines GALLS® today,” states Steve and Julie Roate. “We are confident that this alignment makes Galls the right partner to carry our mission forward, and we are excited for CMS to become part of the GALLS® team.”
Existing CMS clients will now have access to GALLS’® advanced service solutions, including custom web portals that streamline ordering and improve oversight for agency administrators. This technology, paired with GALLS’® robust supply chain, ensures that first responders can rely on consistent inventory availability and rapid deployment of gear. The acquisition aligns with the core missions of both companies: to honor and support those who protect our communities by providing the highest-quality products and services available in the industry.
NEW YORK — March 31, 2026 — Tiger Group today announced that Stuart Kessler has joined its Board of Advisors, bringing 50 years of experience as a consultant, senior executive and creative problem-solver.
Stuart Kessler
Kessler will serve as an additional resource for Tiger teams that provide asset-value insights to lenders, inclusive of distressed and special situations (Valuation Services); deliver solutions to clients facing capital-structure challenges (Investment Banking), and serve as a capital partner to retail, wholesale, ecommerce and other borrowers (Finance).
“Stu has a 50-year track record of managing complexity, from running businesses as an entrepreneur to pulling off game-changing turnarounds,” said William J. Mayer, a Tiger Group Executive Managing Director. “He will be an outstanding resource for Tiger and our clients.”
Kessler cofounded the restructuring, bankruptcy and management consulting firm Clear Thinking Group in 2001. His workout expertise over the next quarter century benefitted a diverse array of clients across the U.S. economy. One example is his turnaround and sale of Knights Apparel to HanesBrands. “By instilling disciplined processes and systems, Stu drove efficiencies that positioned us for a nine-figure sale to a Fortune 100 company,” said former Knights Apparel CEO Joe Bozich, who later served as CEO of Fanatics Vertical Brands.
Kessler brings a merchant’s understanding. The Pittsburgh native spent the first 25 years of his career in senior merchandising and C-suite executive roles at a Who’s Who of retail and consumer products companies. He retired last year as CEO of PKF Clear Thinking LLC, a division of PKF O’Connor Davies.
For companies facing today’s significant uncertainties, Kessler offered some high-level advice. “In a word, it’s flexibility,” he said, “and that is exactly what Tiger’s services provide. I’m excited to contribute at a time when Tiger is helping more industries than ever navigate special situations, transition and growth.”
STOCKHOLM — March 31, 2026 — ABB has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Swedish textile impact company Syre to jointly explore technologies to support the development of Syre’s first textile-to-textile recycling plant in Vietnam.
The agreement establishes a framework for collaboration to investigate how ABB’s automation, electrification and digital technologies could contribute to safe, efficient and scalable operations. It will also explore how these capabilities could further optimize process and quality control performance as Syre advances its ambition to produce circular polyester at industrial scale.
The proposed plant in the Gia Lai province, Vietnam, is intended to recycle polyester from used textiles and industrial waste into new recycled polyester material. Polyester is one of the world’s most widely used fibers and is traditionally produced from fossil-based sources. Recycling polyester helps reduce reliance on virgin fossil inputs, lowers climate impact and keeps valuable materials in circulation, supporting the transition toward a more circular textile industry.
Under the MoU, ABB and Syre will assess how ABB’s technologies – including its distributed control systems, digital industrial software and electrification portfolio – could be adapted to meet the specific requirements of polyester textile-to-textile recycling. Activities are expected to run in parallel with the detailed engineering phase of Syre’s first plant.
“This agreement reflects ABB’s role in supporting emerging industrial applications where automation and electrification can enable greater resource efficiency,” said Wilson Monteiro, Global Business Line Manager for Pulp, Paper and Fiber in ABB’s Process Industries division. “Together with Syre, we will explore how our experience in fiber processing, chemicals and advanced process industries can be applied to polyester recycling. We’re excited to discover what’s possible as we embark on this new technological collaboration.”
“As we now move into full industrial deployment, partnerships like this become critical,” said Dennis Nobelius, CEO of Syre. “Industrializing textile-to-textile recycling is a complex undertaking, and while strong customer demand is essential, it must be matched with best-in-class industrial partners. ABB brings exactly the depth of expertise and execution capability needed; they are a cornerstone of the industrial ecosystem we are building.”
Since its public launch two years ago, Syre has rapidly built its technological foundation, establishing an R&D facility and pilot production line in Mebane, North Carolina. In 2025, the company accelerated to multi-ton production of circular PET chips, demonstrating the viability of its textile-to-textile recycling process. Syre is now focused on advancing plans for its first large-scale production facility in Vietnam, with construction targeted to commence in 2027.
While exploratory in nature, the partnership signals ABB’s dedication to advancing the next generation of fiber-based industries. As circular materials move from ambition to industrial reality, ABB continues to apply its automation, electrification and digital expertise to enable efficient, scalable production.
OBERTSHAUSEN, Germany — March 26, 2026 — KARL MAYER further strengthened its role as a reliable and competent partner to the composites industry at JEC World 2026. The global market leader in textile machinery manufacturing used the trade show to meet key customers, establish numerous new contacts, and engage in in-depth technical discussions.
Market challenges and new opportunities thanks to innovative applications
Hagen Lotzmann
A key topic of discussion was the recent business situation. Given the tense global climate, many customers – particularly in Western markets – are feeling uncertain and holding back on investments. At the same time, countries such as the U.S. and Turkey were represented with large joint booths in Paris. The Chinese composite value chain has also discovered JEC World in Paris and made a strong showing – from fiber manufacturers to end users. All market participants are facing significant competitive pressure.
“More than ever, our customers are looking for new application areas to secure their position. In discussions with them, we were able to highlight numerous new perspectives. There were some very engaging conversations, particularly regarding the pultrusion profiles at our booth,” explained Hagen Lotzmann, President of the KARL MAYER Business Unit Technical Textiles.
Pultrusion technology as a driver of innovation
These long profiles with complex chamber structures are created through the completely novel use of non-crimp fabrics from KARL MAYER KARL MAYER multiaxial warp knitting machines in the pultrusion process.
The discussion raised many questions, but also highlighted exciting applications, such as corrosion-free frames for solar panels or support structures in the construction industry.
KARL MAYER offers further opportunities to learn more about these innovative pultrusion profiles at Techtextil – Booth 12.0/B79 at Messe Frankfurt – and during the concurrent Opening Week of its new TEXTILE INNOVATION CENTER in nearby Obertshausen. Register here.: https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=wN-xQvoWVUme0yq53uw9Hp6EVE41oPtGtA5BADYEQ1BUME1NQlczNDNSUVBOR0wxRTdBUkc1RDA0UC4u&route=shorturl&wdLOR=cD3A09A4C-B92C-CE44-8D69-21CD1DE34F2C
Growing interest in carbon applications
In addition, the KARL MAYER team noted growing interest in carbon applications at JEC World. Discussions with visitors, the trade show‘s innovation award, and the exhibits of many exhibitors all highlighted forward-looking developments in this area. The mobility and transportation sectors, in particular, are promising. Carbon composites are being used more and more extensively in the automotive industry –for example, as battery housings or in underfloor construction – and are finding a completely new field of application in drone construction. The COP MAX 5 from KARL MAYER is a proven and established machine for manufacturing reinforcements for composite components.
ADLINGTON, UK — March 31, 2026 — From 21 to 24 April at Techtextil in Frankfurt, Hall 9 Stand F03 will bring together textile manufacturing and specialist finishing expertise in one integrated offer. Carrington Textiles and Pincroft will present a co branded stand that unites fabric development, dyeing, printing and advanced flame retardant finishing under one roof.
The focus for 2026 is the unveiling of an entirely new generation of inherent flame retardant fabrics, developed in collaboration with technologies including Lenzing FR and XLANCE®. The collection introduces proprietary blends that have not previously existed in the global textiles market. Engineered from the fibre stage to deliver durability, wearer comfort and long term protective performance, these fabrics represent a genuine step change in inherent FR development. Each construction has been created to answer evolving garment engineering demands while maintaining permanent FR integrity throughout the full life cycle of the garment.
Alongside these industry first launches, Pincroft will demonstrate its depth as a specialist commission dyer, printer and finisher, with a strong emphasis on flame retardant finishing technologies. Its capabilities extend from controlled dyeing and precision rotary screen printing to in house permethrin application for insect repellent finishes. With artwork development, digital file preparation and rotary screen engraving managed internally, Pincroft oversees the full process from concept to final fabric, ensuring technical accuracy, repeatability and supply chain security for defence, workwear and technical textile programmes.
Together, the two brands, part of RTS Textiles, present garment manufacturers and textile buyers with access to never before seen inherent FR blends supported by integrated finishing expertise, all from a single stand at Techtextil 2026.
SARASOTA, FL.— March 30, 2026 — In manufacturing environments focused on lean performance and sustainability, small variables often drive outsized consequences. Moisture content is one of them. While it is sometimes treated as a downstream quality check, moisture is in fact a central process variable that directly influences energy consumption, material yield, product stability, and environmental impact. When managed precisely, it becomes a powerful lever for reducing waste, improving first pass yield, and supporting continuous improvement initiatives.
Across industries such as food processing, pulp and paper, ceramics, engineered wood, biomass, and chemicals, manufacturers are recognizing that moisture measurement is not merely about compliance with specifications; it is about operational control, and operational control is the foundation of both lean manufacturing and sustainability performance.
Moisture at the Intersection of Lean Efficiency and Sustainability
Lean manufacturing teaches that variation is the enemy of stability. Sustainability initiatives remind us that every resource carries an environmental cost. Moisture sits squarely at the intersection of both principles. Moisture content directly affects product weight, structural integrity, texture, strength, adhesion, combustion efficiency, and shelf life.
It also dictates drying time, heat input, airflow requirements, and overall process duration. In many operations, drying is one of the most energy intensive steps in the entire production cycle.
Inconsistent moisture levels can lead to product defects, rejected batches, and unnecessary energy consumption across manufacturing environments.
From a lean perspective, uncontrolled moisture introduces variability. That variability leads to defects, rework, downtime, and overprocessing. From a sustainability perspective, excess moisture translates into excess energy consumption. Every additional pound of water removed requires heat, air movement, and time. That means additional fuel or electricity and associated emissions.
When manufacturers achieve precise moisture control, they can produce within tighter specifications, avoid over drying and under drying, reduce energy usage, and maximize material utilization. The result is improved first pass yield and fewer lost resources. Moisture shifts from being a hidden liability to a controllable asset.
The Hidden Costs of Uncontrolled Moisture
When moisture levels drift outside target ranges, the impact cascades across operations. Over drying can cause brittleness, cracking, warping, or structural weakness. In ceramics and building materials, that may mean product failure. In paper production, it can affect sheet strength and weight. In food processing, it may compromise texture or sensory quality. Under drying presents different but equally serious risks. Microbial growth, reduced shelf stability, poor adhesion, or incomplete curing can all result in product rejection or customer complaints.
There are also direct economic consequences. In weight sensitive industries, excess moisture can mean unintentionally giving away product. Conversely, over drying may reduce yield and shrink saleable output. Energy inefficiency is often the largest hidden cost. To compensate for inconsistent moisture, operators frequently run dryers longer or at higher temperatures than necessary. This safety margin approach consumes additional fuel or electricity, increases emissions, and accelerates wear on burners, fans, and insulation systems. In lean terms, uncontrolled moisture generates multiple forms of waste at once: defects, overprocessing, excess energy use, waiting, and rework.
Real Time Data as a Foundation for Continuous Improvement
Continuous improvement depends on visibility. Improvement teams cannot reduce variation they cannot see. Traditional moisture control methods often rely on intermittent sampling or laboratory testing. By the time results are available, the process has already moved on. Defects may already be produced. Energy may already be consumed unnecessarily.
Real time moisture measurement transforms this dynamic. Continuous process feedback allows operators and improvement teams to identify variability trends before defects occur, validate process adjustments immediately, and establish stable operating windows. This supports core lean objectives such as waste reduction, process standardization, statistical process control, and continuous flow optimization. Instead of treating moisture as a delayed quality check, it becomes an active control parameter.
The benefits extend beyond process tuning. Abnormal moisture patterns can reveal equipment health issues such as airflow blockages, burner degradation, feed inconsistencies, or insulation failures. Rather than reacting to failures after quality problems appear, manufacturers can use moisture trends as early warning indicators. This reduces unplanned downtime, emergency repairs, and energy waste caused by inefficient equipment operation.
Quantifying Sustainability Gains Through Moisture Control
Manufacturers pursuing environmental targets often focus on high level metrics such as energy intensity or carbon emissions. Moisture control directly influences both. By drying only to the required target, no more and no less, manufacturers can shorten drying cycles, lower operating temperatures, and reduce fuel or electricity consumption. Even small reductions in drying time can translate into significant annual energy savings, particularly in high volume operations.
Improved moisture control also reduces scrap and rework. Fewer rejected batches mean lower raw material use and less embodied energy wasted in defective product. Reduced energy usage directly lowers carbon emissions in combustion based drying systems. At the same time, accurate product weight control improves yield and minimizes material giveaway. These measurable improvements align with corporate sustainability goals and ESG initiatives. More importantly, they create a direct, traceable link between process optimization and environmental impact.
Non-contact infrared sensors integrate directly into existing control systems, enabling automated moisture regulation without disrupting production
For moisture measurement to support lean and sustainability programs, it must integrate seamlessly into existing workflows. Modern non-contact systems are designed with this requirement in mind. Infrared based sensors can mount above conveyors or production lines, continuously scanning product without physical contact. They integrate with existing PLC and SCADA systems and provide real time feedback suitable for automated closed loop control.
Because these systems require no consumables, no sample preparation, and minimal maintenance, they do not introduce process interruptions. Instead, they enhance operational visibility. Moisture monitoring data can be incorporated into lean dashboards, sustainability KPIs, Six Sigma initiatives, and energy management programs. Rather than adding complexity, it provides clarity.
Linking Process Optimization and Environmental Responsibility
Advanced non-contact moisture measurement technologies illustrate how process data can support both economic and environmental objectives. Companies leveraging real time infrared sensing solutions, such as those offered by MoistTech Corp., use continuous moisture data to maintain tighter drying control, reduce energy overuse, improve yield, and minimize scrap. By measuring moisture instantly without contacting the product, manufacturers can support automated control strategies that prevent overprocessing and stabilize output. The same data that drives efficiency improvements can also be used to quantify reductions in energy consumption and material waste.
In practical terms, moisture measurement becomes part of a broader smart manufacturing strategy. It supports predictive maintenance, sustains gains from continuous improvement efforts, and provides objective verification that process changes remain effective over time. Lean manufacturing and sustainability are not competing priorities. They are aligned around disciplined resource management and data driven decision making. Moisture content may seem like a small variable, but in many industries it determines how much energy is consumed, how much product is wasted, and how consistently performance targets are achieved. When measured continuously and controlled precisely, moisture becomes more than a quality parameter. It becomes a strategic lever for cost efficiency and environmental responsibility.
SHANGHAI — March 26, 2026 — Faced by both trade and travel uncertainty, Intertextile Shanghai Apparel Fabrics – Spring Edition 2026 nevertheless delivered strong results, with participants praising the platform’s leading role facilitating sustainable innovation, digitalization, trends, and trade in the international apparel textile sector.
The 30% larger Functional Lab, and its expansive display area The CUBE, experienced a high visitor flow this spring (Source: Messe Frankfurt)
Over 96,000 visitors from 119 countries and regions explored the offerings of over 3,000 exhibitors from 11 to 13 March at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai), where in vogue, high-potential textiles for SS 2027 were clearly demonstrated. Beyond the booths, various fringe events and product displays presented vital platforms for many new materials and process improvements to reach a wider audience.
Speaking at the show’s close, Ms Wilmet Shea, General Manager of Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd, said: “The market landscape is presenting several challenges, yet the industry continues to put its faith in Intertextile Apparel – this is indicated by our excellent exhibitor return rate and steady visitor flow, with international participation remaining strong. It is clear China is helping to pave the way for the fashion industry’s functional, digital, and sustainable evolution, which makes this flagship fair – one of the biggest in the world for apparel textiles – crucial for global exchange across traditional and emerging markets.”
International exhibitors returned to the show at a rate of over 60%, with several debutants aiding a slight overall increase in the total[1]. On the international side, eight featured zones, seven country / region pavilions, and three group pavilions gave visitors much to explore across the three days. For the fair’s more than 100 overseas and domestic VIP buyers, and 200 buyers from 10 international delegations, various tours and business matching sessions made onsite sourcing more convenient.
Within the fringe programme, leading experts presented topics covering fashion, performance, sustainability, and innovation to over 4,500 participants at 50 events, while nearly 1,500 samples were displayed at the Intertextile Directions Trend Forum, the Econogy Hub Display Area, the new Pet Boutique, and The CUBE at Functional Lab – making on-trend and cutting-edge fabrics quick to compare, and relevant exhibitors easier to find.
Sustainable innovation: fairgoers deliver keen insights on China’s textile market
At the fair, Lenzing organised a pavilion and featured in the fringe programme, using both avenues to gain an even stronger foothold in the domestic market. “Chinese consumers’ awareness of TENCEL™ has exceeded 60%, with 92% of those willing to purchase derived products,” said Ms Maggie Li, Marketing Head, Textile China at Lenzing.
“We want to convey these positive downstream signals to our B2B clients at the fair, while launching our new TENCEL™ Lyocell HV100 fibre has attracted numerous visitors making enquiries.” Mr Fred Wang, the company’s BD Manager for Functional Wear, said: “Pet-related spending has compounded at some 15% for five straight years, opening unprecedented opportunities for pet textile fabrics. We aim to leverage Intertextile Apparel’s strong influence to attract more pet industry players through the Pet Boutique, while in the related Pet Forum I was honoured to discuss the applications of our natural fibres in the sector.”
Domestic buyers of more traditional apparel textiles were also optimistic despite macro-economic uncertainties. Mr Yanchi Shao, General Manager of Yagang Lace, said: “Against the backdrop of a complex economic situation intertwined with trade frictions, we are facing challenges with our client base and securing orders – which further underscores the importance of attending large-scale, industry-benchmarking fairs like Intertextile Apparel. I remain confident in China’s sustainable development prospects; as the world’s largest textile producer, it is the preferred destination of international buyers, and in recent years has made significant progress in R&D and innovation.”
Exhibitors’ feedback
“The industry is accelerating its evolution towards digitilisation, traceability, and the circular economy, and our core value lies in providing in-depth support that aligns perfectly – from testing services to ensure export compliance, to dissemination of trend information – empowering our clients to stay ahead. This fair brings together buyers from around the world, particularly from our core Asian market, enabling us to connect with many potential and existing partners in one location. Despite our global recognition, we still regard this as a vital platform for client engagement.”
Mr Rainer Roten, CEO, TESTEX AG, Switzerland
“We’ll keep coming back to Intertextile Apparel because Asia has huge potential as a new, untapped market for us. It’s now a trend leader, with buyers currently seeking a lot of stripes and checks. At this fair, some massive companies previously unknown to us have made orders and enquiries. Just 10 minutes ago, we had a lead for 200,000 metres of fabric. There’s now very little that can match Turkish fabric performance-wise, and the new Türkiye Pavilion is brilliant – with everyone together, there’s a much higher chance of buyers exploring our stand.”
Mr Selçuk Türkoğlu, Sales Specialist, Marsala Textile, Türkiye
“The Chinese market is continuously increasing demand for natural fibres, with high-end precious fibres gaining more favour. At the same time, consumers are no longer seeking the ostentatious, instead placing value on products that are luxurious but also sustainable, easy to wear, and comfortable. Intertextile Apparel has been our primary channel for Chinese market entry for 25 to 27 years; especially in the past two years, we have connected with many new clients here, particularly from the online sector. This fair’s value to our business development is truly irreplaceable.”
Mr Andrea Rossi, CEO, Lanificio Luigi Colombo S.p.A, Italy
“Intertextile Apparel is an excellent platform to acquire customers, promote our products and brand, and hold in-depth discussions. This is our first time at the Spring Edition, and judging by the first day’s results, it has truly exceeded our expectations. As well as meeting our existing European and American clients, numerous new buyers showed strong interest. The global demand for functional fabrics is rising, especially in China, driven by consumers’ growing inclination towards healthy lifestyles and sports like badminton and skiing.”
Ms Eva Zhu, Fabric Business Unit/Vice Director, Hyosung International Trade (Jiaxing), China
“This was our first time exhibiting at the fair, and both the footfall and industry-focused quality of leads far exceeded our expectations, making networking highly efficient. We chose this influential platform primarily to attract international clients. The breadth of brands, trading companies, and overseas buyers in attendance is impressive, and many expressed strong interest in our core products. Our sustainable philosophy aligns perfectly with the fair’s ethos, validating our specialisation in functional products. Overall, it was an excellent experience, and we will definitely continue to participate in future editions.”
Ms Ming-yang Zhang, Marketing Department, CPL New Material Technology Co Ltd (Umahemp), Japan
Visitors’ comments
“As a delegation composed of 15 garment pattern producers, our main objectives at Intertextile Apparel were to keep abreast of fashion trends, seek suitable suppliers, and pay close attention to the industry’s digital transformation. Upon arriving, we were deeply impressed, especially with the fair’s enormous scale. Our focused visits to exhibitors’ booths and venue exploration have yielded fruitful results, while the centralised display model enabled us to efficiently connect with suppliers, quickly assess cooperation potential, and complete industry exchange.”
Mr Azamat Alymkulov, Executive Director, Textile Development Center, Kyrgyzstan
“This edition’s Intertextile Directions Trend Forum is amazing – it’s bigger, better, with more variety. You can not only see what’s trending but also take pictures and find the suppliers. The trend of brown and earth tones is so strong this season, which is exciting for us. I’ve also just seen an embroidered women’s suiting fabric that we can apply to menswear tuxedo jackets, and I’ll go visit the stand. This edition’s had more innovation; I’ve met five new mills, and I only add suppliers to my list if they’ve done something really special.”
Ms Marissa Falting, Formal Senior Designer, POLITIX, Australia
“At the fair, we have seen a growing number of suppliers developing staple fibre and Tencel-blended fabrics for the baby sector, achieving ultimate softness as well as eco-friendly dyeing and sustainable production. Intertextile Apparel is more than just a sourcing platform; it is an industry bellwether and inspiration hub, allowing us to compare the latest domestic and international technology. Our team is not only visiting booths but also prioritising the fringe events, especially the material-themed discussions, which help us grasp the technological direction of the entire industry from a macro perspective.”
Mr Yanbo Wang, Infant Wear R&D Expert, Babycare, China
Speaker’s insights
“There’s actually so much value in waste and so much of it in the market. The panel gave really useful insights into the different perspectives of designers, NGOs and manufacturers, showing their challenges and the opportunities to work together to meet them. It’s also very inspiring to see the interesting exhibitors with innovative solutions here at Intertextile Apparel, and the amount of conversation that’s being had around sustainability and circularity at a big forum like this is really exciting and important for visibility.”
Ms Nissa Cornish, Executive Director, Redress, Hong Kong
(Moderator at Econogy Forum – Redefining Fashion: Waste is the New Resource)
The fair was co-organised by Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd; the Sub-Council of Textile Industry, CCPIT; and the China Textile Information Centre. It took place alongside Yarn Expo Spring, Intertextile Shanghai Home Textiles – Spring Edition, CHIC and PH Value at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai). For more details on this fair, please visit: www.intertextileapparel.com.
PARIS — April 1, 2026 — Reju™, the progressive textile-to-textile regeneration company, has been awarded €135 million in funding under the Netherlands’ Nationale Investeringsregeling Klimaatprojecten Industrie (NIKI) program. The funding will support Reju’s planned industrial-scale Regeneration Hub at Chemelot Industrial Park in Sittard-Geleen, covering both the investment phase and ongoing operations, and represents a critical milestone on the path toward final investment decision.
