Durham, N.C.-based American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists announced advancements to the AATCC Stain Release Replica, the tool used to evaluate a fabric’s ability to release stains from corn oil (AATCC TM130) and household soils (AATCC TM215).
The AATCC Stain Release Replica evaluates a fabric’s ability to release oily stains after home laundering or household soils during home laundering. In AATCC Test Method 130, an oil stain is applied to fabric, weight is applied, and the fabric is washed using standardized home laundering conditions. In AATCC TM215, household stains including red wine, ketchup, mustard, coffee, and grape juice are applied to fabric, weight is applied, and standard laundering is conducted.
Recent advancements have allowed AATCC to reduce adhesives and paper used in manufacture. The replica is now produced using a direct printing method, reducing paper and adhesive materials while maintaining the same consistent five-point rating scale.
Pincroft’s new Zimmer Rotascreen TGAdlington, UK-based Pincroft Dyeing & Printing and Toray Textiles Europe Ltd. announced a collaboration to supply printed woven technical textiles for the UK defense sector. Both companies are established suppliers to NATO military programs.
Strategically located in northwest England, Pincroft operates one of Europe’s largest fully integrated textile processing, printing and finishing facilities. Exporting to more than 80 countries with annual production capacity exceeding 50 million meters, the company has built a reputation in military printing and flame-retardant finishing.
Toray Textiles Europe Ltd. specializes in weaving, dyeing and finishing of synthetic fiber textiles across defense, medical, and industrial applications. The company recently invested more than £15 million in advanced looms and process machinery.
“Leveraging our combined expertise and innovation, alongside our UK-based operations and supply chains, Pincroft and Toray are well placed to support the shared goals of strengthening national security, driving economic growth and improving sustainability,” said Paul Farrell, group sales director at Pincroft.
“This collaboration supports employment across the manufacturing sector and helps build a resilient domestic supply chain,” said Paul Daynes, sales manager at Toray Textiles Europe Ltd.
Mönchengladbach, Germany-based Monforts launched a digital platform designed to give textile manufacturers access to the company’s finishing technologies, technical expertise, and aftersales support worldwide.
A key feature is a series of interactive 3D tours covering the company’s principal technology ranges. Visitors can virtually explore the latest MONTEX stenter lines, MONFORTEX sanforizing systems and THERMEX continuous dyeing technologies, as well as coating options and exhaust air cleaning modules.
The platform streamlines interaction with existing customers. Ordering spare parts and arranging service support can be initiated directly via a simplified contact tool, ensuring rapid routing of inquiries to specialists.
“Our new digital platform developed with a focus on usability and accessibility,” said Nicole Croonenbroek, marketing manager at Monforts. “It allows customers to engage with our technologies and experts, making essential services such as spare parts and technical support easier to access.”
With Arclin’s recent acquisition of the DuPont™ aramids business complete, Arclin CEO Bradley Bolduc and President Mark Glaspey share their fresh perspective on shaping the future of Kevlar® and Nomex®.
Textile World Special Report
Founded in 1992 and headquartered in Alpharetta, Georgia, Arclin is a privately held materials science company focused on advanced polymer technologies and engineered materials for demanding industrial and performance-driven applications.
With Arclin’s April 1 acquisition of the DuPont™ aramids business complete, Arclin CEO Bradley Bolduc and President Mark Glaspey are carving a fresh path forward for the iconic Kevlar® and Nomex® brands. While the acquisition marks Arclin’s entry into the textile industry, they say it represents a natural continuation of the company’s focus on performance materials, innovation and mission-critical applications.
Bradley Bolduc joined Arclin in 2012 and served across nearly every facet of the business before taking the helm as CEO in 2021. Beginning his career in specialty chemicals, he brings a molecular-level approach to innovation, grounded in firsthand experience turning new technologies from concept into real-world applications. Under Bolduc’s leadership, Arclin has evolved into a diversified, global materials science company that serves customers across a range of end markets, including construction and building materials, industrial, personal protection, aerospace, defense, automotive and EV, pharmaceuticals and agriculture.
Mark Glaspey joined Arclin in 2002, beginning in technical sales and applications before progressing through senior leadership roles spanning manufacturing, operations and business execution. Appointed President in early 2026 after serving as Chief Operating Officer, Glaspey brings nearly 25 years of institutional knowledge and a deep understanding of how innovation, reliability and customer trust intersect in complex materials businesses.
With the aramids acquisition behind them, Arclin enters the textile industry as the steward of two of the most renowned performance fiber brands in the world. In conversation with Textile World, Bolduc and Glaspey share how Arclin’s history, leadership philosophy and long-term investment mindset are shaping the future of Kevlar® and Nomex®.
Textile World: Arclin may be new to textiles, but it is not new to performance materials. How do you describe Arclin to a textile audience that may be encountering the company for the first time?
Bradley Bolduc: At its core, Arclin is a materials science company. We design and manufacture polymer technologies, engineered products and specialized materials that go into applications where performance truly matters and failure isn’t an option. What differentiates us is that we don’t just supply base chemistry — we tailor molecules, formulations and material systems specifically for how our customers need to use them.
That approach has allowed us to build long partnerships across industries, because we enable our customers’ products to perform, last longer and deliver greater value. While textiles is a new industry for Arclin, performance is not new territory for us. Aramids fit naturally into our portfolio because they sit at the intersection of chemistry, processing and mission-critical application, which is where we feel right at home.
Arclin CEO Bradley Bolduc joined Plant Manager Sean Godfrey on a site tour in Maydown, Northern Ireland this spring.
TW: Arclin has had several major acquisitions over the past few years, including The Willamette Valley Company, Polymer Solutions Group and now DuPont’s aramids business. How does Arclin evaluate and integrate acquisitions?
Bolduc: Arclin has been a growth compounder for a long time. We’ve delivered over 15 consecutive years of organic EBITDA growth and that doesn’t happen by accident. It comes from being selective, from understanding how different technologies fit together and from having the discipline to say no when something doesn’t align.
That same discipline guided our approach to the aramids business. We don’t view Kevlar® and Nomex® as standalone acquisitions or legacy products; we see platforms with significant runway. They check all our boxes: strong intellectual property, critical end-use performance, global relevance and the opportunity to invest and innovate over the long term. For us, this wasn’t diversification for diversification’s sake.
TW: Why acquire the aramids business now?
Bolduc: We’re seeing renewed emphasis across industries on materials that protect people, assets and systems — asking them to go further and last longer. Aramids are category-defining materials in that regard, and decades after their introduction they continue to play an indispensable role. Today, platforms like Kevlar® EXO™ underscore how the category continues to evolve, bringing more tailored, application-specific performance to meet modern protection and durability demands.
We believe the aramids brands are ready for their next chapter. As a private company, we can take a longer-term view. We can reinvest in innovation, modernize operations and expand applications thoughtfully. That ability to be patient and to invest through cycles is critical when you’re responsible for materials that are this vital.
TW: The DuPont™ aramids business — the Kevlar® and Nomex® brands — have such a rich legacy, how do you approach continuity?
Mark Glaspey: Continuity is foundational. These brands carry decades of trust and our responsibility as stewards is to preserve what makes them successful while ensuring they remain competitive for the future. From day one, our focus has been on operational continuity by maintaining manufacturing reliability, quality and customer relationships across a truly global footprint.
At the same time, continuity does not mean standing still. We are investing in manufacturing capabilities, process discipline and innovation infrastructure so that these brands can rise to meet increasing consumer and market needs. The goal is thoughtful enhancement and advancement rather than disruption.
TW: Those familiar with Arclin often speak of innovation, how does your chemistry background influence how the company approaches innovation?
Bolduc: Our team recognizes that meaningful breakthroughs don’t happen overnight and that getting from ideation to commercialization requires patience, technical rigor and continued investment. For me, innovation is hands on. It’s about understanding the chemistry, the processing challenges and how materials behave in real world systems.
That perspective guides how we allocate both time and capital. We’re willing to invest early, take a long view and support ideas through their full development cycle.
TW: Can you give an example of the process within Arclin?
Bolduc: Arclin Firepoint® is a good example. We spent nine years developing and refining the proprietary technology behind this sheathing because, as wildfire zones expand and families seek greater protection, we saw an opportunity to deliver a product that could meaningfully slow the spread of flames and help save lives. While most fire-resistant sheathing is rated for up to 60 minutes, Firepoint exceeds that benchmark with a 90-minute rating. If we were overly focused on short-term returns, this product simply would not exist.
Being a private company helps enormously in this regard. We’re not managing to quarterly optics, so we’re able to build platforms that compound value over years and decades.
Arclin believes Nomex®, alongside Kevlar®, are materials that still have enormous room to grow.
TW: How does that philosophy apply to Arclin’s approach to aramids?
Glaspey: It translates into balance. Innovation must be paired with execution. Our responsibility is to ensure that advancements are scalable, repeatable and reliable for customers who depend on these materials every day. That means disciplined operations, rigorous quality systems and close collaboration with customers across the value chain.
Aramids are not static materials. There is real opportunity to advance them, not just at the molecular level, but in processing, form factors and application. Our role is to create an environment where that evolution can happen consistently and responsibly.
TW: Where do you see the most significant opportunities for innovation with aramids?
Bolduc: Anywhere performance and protection matter. That includes established applications, but also emerging use cases driven by higher expectations around durability, safety and reliability. We’re seeing opportunities where lightweight strength, thermal performance and resilience open doors to applications that didn’t exist or weren’t viable before.
What excites me is that these materials still have enormous room to grow. Advances like the next generation of Kevlar® EXO™, which is 30-40% stronger than legacy Kevlar®, much lighter,and able to be woven in a way that allows for maximum flexibility and softness while delivering unmatched thermal protection properties. We believe this is a game changer for the industry and a great example of what’s possible when you continue to invest in core technology: new generations of the “tried and true” that are bigger and better than the previous. If that wasn’t enough, we also are focused on remaining best-in-class when it comes to working with customers on application development. This is where our people and industry know-how never disappoint. Stay tuned!
TW: Mark, how does Arclin work with customers to translate their needs into applications?
Glaspey: Collaboration is critical here. Materials only deliver their full value when they can be effectively integrated into products and manufacturing processes. Our teams work closely with customers to understand their requirements, constraints and long-term objectives. That partnership mindset has been core to Arclin for decades and will continue to guide how we support the aramids business.
Because we operate globally, we’re also able to bring consistent standards and support across regions, which is especially important for customers serving international markets.
TW: Finally, what message would you like to share with the textile community as Arclin begins this new chapter?
Bolduc: First and foremost, we’re here for the long term. We respect the legacy of Kevlar® and Nomex® and we’re committed to investing in our combined future. These are not finished technologies; they’re evolving platforms with enormous potential.
Arclin’s culture is built around innovation, discipline and stewardship. We’ve compounded growth for more than 15 years by staying true to that DNA and we plan to bring the same mindset to aramids. We’re excited to work alongside the textile industry, learn from you and help advance what these materials can do for years to come.
Needlepunch technical center, located in Elbeuf, FranceANDRITZ perspective on demand drivers, regional developments and technology innovations shaping investment decisions.
Textile World Special Report
Global nonwoven technology provider ANDRITZ reports the needlepunch nonwovens market as stable, supported by diversified end-use demand and infrastructure investment.
In the following report, Austria-based ANDRITZ outlines the market forces, application trends and technology developments influencing capital investment and competitiveness.
ANDRITZ Reports
The global market for needlepunch nonwovens continues to demonstrate strong structural resilience, supported by the technology’s exceptional versatility across a wide range of applications, including geotextiles, filtration, automotive interiors, synthetic leather, insulation and technical felts. Unlike single-segment textile technologies, needlepunch benefits from highly diversified end markets, each following its own investment and demand cycle. This diversity provides a natural buffer against economic volatility.
After a short slowdown in early 2020, the market strongly recovered until the third quarter of 2023, driven by infrastructure investments and renewed industrial activity across Europe, North America and Asia. While 2024 has been a more cautious investment climate due to geopolitical tensions and inflationary pressures, the medium- and long-term outlook for 2025 and 2026 remains positive, supported by fundamental market drivers.
Regional Dynamics Shaping Demand
Europe and Turkey remain mature but strategically important markets, driven by high value-added applications such as automotive interiors, technical geotextiles, filtration media and specialty industrial felts. Investments in these regions are primarily aimed at productivity improvements, quality differentiation and energy efficiency rather than pure capacity expansion. Turkey, in particular, plays a pivotal role as a competitive manufacturing and export hub, bridging European quality standards with cost-efficient production and strong access to regional and international markets.
Asia remains the strongest growth engine for needlepunch nonwovens, driven mainly by filtration, synthetic leather and stitch-bonded applications. This region benefits from strong domestic consumption, industrialization and export-driven manufacturing strategies, supported by strong financial assets and enabling multiple line investments.
Emerging regions such as the Middle East and parts of Central Asia are also gaining importance, supported by infrastructure development and growing interest in building local nonwoven production capabilities. In North America, renewed momentum can be observed in automotive applications, such as wheel arch liners and infrastructure-related geotextiles, where reshoring strategies and supply-chain security are influencing investment decisions.
Globally, demand growth is driven by infrastructure spending, environmental regulations, lightweight construction trends and the increasing use of recycled and bio-based fibers, applications where needlepunch technology offers clear technical advantages.
Investment Trends: Productivity, Quality And Flexibility
Despite a more cautious macroeconomic environment, nonwovens producers continue to invest in new machinery and line upgrades. Importantly, many recent projects represent net capacity additions rather than simple replacement investments, reflecting confidence in long-term demand.
ANDRITZ X-Pro™ crosslapper for high-speed nonwoven productionInvestment decisions are increasingly driven by fast ROI, low total cost of ownership, improved surface quality and web evenness, higher productivity with reduced mechanical stress and greater process flexibility. As needlepunch lines represent significant CAPEX, investment processes are becoming more structured and data-driven, relying on extensive feasibility studies, simulations and trials at technical centers.
Service capabilities also play a decisive role. Remote support, rapid spare-parts availability, retrofit solutions and process expertise are increasingly valued, particularly in the context of workforce turnover and skills shortages.
Key Applications Driving Investments
Geotextiles remains one of the largest and most stable application segments for needlepunch nonwovens, supported by global infrastructure projects, urbanization, road construction, erosion control and drainage systems. This cost-sensitive market demands high-output lines up to 2,000 kg/hour and advanced weight regulation systems, to maintain competitiveness.
In Asia, filtration media and synthetic leather remain key drivers of needlepunch investments. Stricter environmental regulations and sustained industrial growth continue to support demand, while synthetic leather applications increasingly rely on advanced needling patterns and precise batt formation to achieve high surface quality, uniformity and mechanical consistency.
Automotive demand remains regionally diverse. While North America continues to invest in wheel arch liners, Europe focuses increasingly on aesthetic interior components and Asia shows sustained interest in velour and technical felts for both automotive and footwear applications.
Sound absorption and insulation applications, often based on recycled or natural fibers, are gaining importance across construction and mobility markets. The ability of needlepunch lines to process 100% recycled materials while maintaining consistent quality has become a key factor for producers.
Lightweight nonwovens represent a highly demanding segment, requiring precise control to achieve low basis weights with stable performance. Applications such as hygiene, filtration and medical products rely on uniform web formation, carefully controlled pre-bonding and needling processes, including elliptical needling, with efficiency and material optimization acting as key investment drivers.
Technology Developments In Andritz Needlepunch Machinery
Recent improvements at ANDRITZ reflect a strong alignment between machine development and current market expectations for productivity, quality and process flexibility. These developments address a wide range of applications, from high-output geotextiles to lightweight and quality-critical nonwovens.
ANDRITZ neXloom elliptica Type DF-4 needleloomIn batt forming, the ANDRITZ X-Pro™ crosslapper represents a significant step forward in crosslapping performance for needlepunch lines. Its X-Path advanced web transfer concept ensures continuous web control from card delivery to batt forming, resulting in improved evenness, straight edges and stable processing at high speeds. This level of control is particularly relevant for demanding applications such as filtration, synthetic leather, geotextiles and automotive nonwovens.
The ANDRITZ neXloom elliptica Type DF-4 needleloom represents an advancement in pre-needling technology for high-quality nonwovens. Designed for light products processed at high speed, it combines optimized pre-needling consolidation with improved surface appearance. Its elliptical needling process, using one needle per hole, eliminates surface marking, reduces fabric stretching and improves fabric uniformity, while enabling reliable and flexible operation for demanding applications such as automotive, paper felts, spunbond products and synthetic leather.
Outlook And Challenges
While the fundamental outlook for the needlepunch market remains positive, challenges persist. Investment timing remains sensitive to geopolitical tensions, energy costs and inflation, while skills development and knowledge transfer become increasingly critical as the workforce evolves. At the same time, the growing use of recycled and natural fibers (hemp, flax and jute) introduces greater variability in raw materials, requiring more robust and flexible process solutions.
Overall, the needlepunch nonwovens market enters the coming years with solid fundamentals, diversified demand and strong innovation momentum. Investments are clearly shifting toward flexible, efficient and quality-focused production solutions that offer fast returns and long-term competitiveness.
Unlock New Market Opportunities With Andritz Needlepunch Pilot Line
The ANDRITZ needlepunch pilot line at our Elbeuf technical center offers customers a unique opportunity to turn ideas into market-ready solutions. Built to full industrial scale and equipped with the latest ANDRITZ technologies, this pilot line enables realistic trials, rapid product development and confident investment decisions. Customers can test a wide range of fibers and applications under production-like conditions, supported by experienced process experts, advanced digital tools and an integrated testing laboratory.
Whether optimizing an existing process or developing an entirely new product, the ANDRITZ needlepunch pilot line is designed to accelerate innovation, reduce risk and unlock new market opportunities.
Executive Summary: Needlepunch Outlook
Guillaume JulienBy Guillaume Julien, ANDRITZ Global Director Sales for Engineered Textiles
The global needlepunch nonwovens market demonstrates strong resilience, underpinned by its versatility across diversified applications such as geotextiles, filtration, automotive interiors, synthetic leather, insulation and technical felts. This diversity provides a natural hedge against economic volatility and supports long-term market stability.
Following a strong recovery through 2023, driven by infrastructure investments and renewed industrial activity, 2024 has seen a more cautious investment climate influenced by geopolitical tensions, inflation and energy costs. Nevertheless, the medium- and long-term outlook remains positive for 2026 and beyond.
Regional dynamics continue to shape demand. Asia stands out as the primary growth engine, driven by filtration, synthetic leather and industrial applications, while Europe and Turkey remain mature but strategically important markets focused on productivity, quality differentiation and energy efficiency. In North America, reshoring initiatives and infrastructure spending are reviving investments, particularly in automotive and geotextiles.
Investment decisions increasingly prioritize fast return on investment, low total cost of ownership, surface quality, productivity and process flexibility. The growing use of recycled and natural fibers is accelerating demand for robust, adaptable technologies.
Overall, the needlepunch market enters the coming years with solid fundamentals and strong innovation momentum — a clear shift toward flexible, efficient and quality-focused production solutions.
The U.S. textile industry has entered 2026 as both a stressed sector and a strategic pillar of the nation’s manufacturing base.
Chuck Hall, president and CEO of Spartanburg, S.C.-based Barnet and immediate past chairman of the National Council of Textile Organizations, makes that case in this issue’s State of the U.S. Textile Industry address (see “2026 State Of The U.S. Textile Industry,” page 12).
His remarks underscore how much is at stake for an industry that employs 453,122 workers and generates $60.9 billion in annual output while supplying critical components to apparel, automotive, industrial, hospitality and defense markets.
According to Hall’s address, the industry delivers more than $1.8 billion in uniforms and textile-based equipment and more than 8,000 textile products each year to the Department of War and the armed forces, including flame-resistant fabrics and advanced ballistic materials tied directly to mission readiness and national security.
Hall doesn’t hold back. He acknowledges that in the past two and a half years, more than 40 U.S. textile plants have closed, many in rural communities built around a single mill. Key indicators weakened in 2025, as man-made fiber, textile and apparel shipments slipped to an estimated $60.9 billion from $63.9 billion in 2024 and exports dipped to $27 billion from $28 billion. Blanket global tariff increases, predatory trade practices, illegal transshipments, customs fraud and logistics breakdowns have stressed the industry more than some could bear.
At the same time, Hall highlights real reasons for cautious optimism. From 2017 to 2024, the industry invested $34.3 billion in advanced domestic manufacturing and $5.5 billion in new plants and equipment in 2024 alone; and the United States remains the second-largest individual country exporter of textile-related products.
Hall also emphasizes policy gains secured through the National Council of Textile Organizations’ engagement with senior administration officials and Congress.
Hall points to other positives, including preserving duty-free treatment for qualifying textile and apparel trade under current trade law. Efforts to safeguard and expand the Berry Amendment requirements — along with a growing emphasis on American-made procurement across federal agencies — reinforce the link between national security and domestic capacity.
Taken together, the themes in Hall’s address amount to both a scorecard and a call to action. The challenge is clear: Policy shifts will only translate into durable advantages if companies continue to invest, engage on policy and adapt to a tougher global playing field.
For senior management throughout U.S. textiles, Hall’s address offers a concise view of where the industry stands, where policy is moving and where strategic decisions in 2026 may matter most.
Policy and politics remain a challenge, but Hall’s remarks suggest real strides have been made that provide U.S. textiles an opportunity to demonstrate its value — and strategic relevance — to the nation’s manufacturing base.
CINCINNATI, Ohio — May 18, 2026 — Standard Textile Co., Inc., a global leader in healthcare and hospitality textiles, has announced the promotions of Adam Frankel to Vice President, North America Healthcare Sales, and Matt Vacca to Vice President, North America Hospitality Sales.
Adam Frankel
Frankel has been with Standard Textile for more than 16 years, serving in a variety of progressively responsible roles across healthcare sales.
Throughout his tenure, he has contributed significantly to healthcare sales growth, including playing a key leadership role in launching the company’s Scrubin Uniforms® partnership and other strategic partnerships.
Vacca brings more than 20 years of experience in the laundry and textile industry.
Since joining Standard Textile in 2016, he has contributed to growth across the business through a range of sales and leadership roles serving the healthcare and hospitality markets, leveraging deep industry knowledge and strong customer relationships.
Matt Vacca
“Adam and Matt have each made meaningful contributions to our organization through strong leadership, customer focus, and a commitment to growth,” said Frank Kerley, Vice President, North America Healthcare and Hospitality at Standard Textile.
“Their experience and strategic vision position us well to continue strengthening our healthcare and hospitality businesses while delivering value to our customers.”
SHENZHEN, China — May 21, 2026 — Intertextile Shenzhen 2026 has secured key academic and association partnerships, set to reveal textile innovation in abundance at the fair’s debut Future Horizons Forum and Innovation Studio display area. The theme will extend across the show floor, with exhibitors from 11 countries and regions gathering from 9 – 11 June at the Shenzhen Convention & Exhibition Center in Futian.
Alongside a host of domestic exhibitors, with those from South China relishing the prospect of a platform closer to home, the fair’s International Zone will welcome the Japan Zone and standalone exhibitors from across Asia, Europe, and the Americas. Industry advancement, especially relating to AI and sustainability, will be one of the major points for discussion at the upcoming fair.
Shenzhen recently became China’s largest manufacturing and exporting city, solidifying its lead in AI and start-up cultivation[1], and Intertextile Shenzhen Apparel Fabrics 2026 has adjusted its positioning to better reflect the city’s innovative edge. This is perhaps most evident at its fringe programme, where two new initiatives will increase the fair’s impact on industry advancement.
The Future Horizons Forum will take place on 9 June, with three dedicated sessions providing garment manufacturers, textile suppliers, and designers with valuable insights set to drive future textile growth. Leading tertiary institutions from the Greater Bay Area will moderate each discussion:
• Session 1: Navigating the Next Wave of Textile Innovation, by Wuyi University
• Session 2: Shaping a Sustainable Textile Future, by the Technological and Higher Education Institute of Hong Kong (THEi)
• Session 3: Unlocking the Applications of AI in the Fashion & Textile Industry, by the Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU)
Alongside other Asian organisations, these same institutions will also play significant roles at the fair’s debut Innovation Studio, an integrated display area showcasing the sustainable materials, cutting-edge processes, and digital technology at the forefront of the apparel textile sector. Featured collaborators include:
• Asia International Hemp Federation (AIHF): AIHF will present the evolving identity of hemp as both a sustainable luxury textile and a high-performance industrial material, moving beyond fibre to the functional frontier and unveiling hemp’s potential to drive sustainability.
• Mint Studio: developed by the School of Fashion and Textiles at PolyU, this innovative fashion networking platform will feature garments from Hong Kong designers at the fair, set to foster new business opportunities and further bridge the gap between rising talents, industry leaders and global buyers.
• Technological and Higher Education Institute of Hong Kong (THEi): THEi will reveal how it integrates world-class fashion technology with deep cultural narratives to create sustainable solutions – without compromising aesthetic or structural excellence.
• Wuyi University: the Jiangmen-based university will showcase the transformation of raw materials into fabric, highlighting to global buyers the precision and technology that goes into certain fabrics before they become garments.
Japan Zone’s highlighted exhibitors a key draw for visitors
With Intertextile Shenzhen’s innovation-focused fringe programme set to generate added buzz, the fair’s exhibitors – hailing from China, Hong Kong, France, India, Italy, Japan, Korea, Vietnam and more – are preparing to win new business in between sourcing seasons. Those in the Japan Zone will feature a range of advanced, in-vogue fabrics that appeal to domestic and international buyers alike:
Kirari Co Ltd: Kirari offers high-end fashion fabrics across all categories, available in a wide range of varieties and colours, with stocked inventory and no MOQ. Made from renewable cupro fibre, its fabrics incorporate two advanced Japanese finishing technologies – pleating and fibrillation – resulting in a unique texture and exceptional skin-friendly comfort.
• Shibaya Co Ltd: Shibaya uses natural materials like cotton, linen, and wool to produce high-quality, eco-friendly, and functional fabrics. For its highlighted product Sunny Dry, skilled artisans employ traditional sun-drying and hand-dyeing without any mechanical tension. This preserves the fabric’s natural texture, giving it a soft, rich feel and a unique, layered look.
• Sunwell Co Ltd: Sunwell has over 2,000 fabrics in stock, with raw materials including cotton, linen, rayon, nylon, and polyester. The company’s featured product is a lightweight voile made from a cotton-polyester blend. It has a delicate, slightly sheer texture, smooth feel, and clean surface achieved through high-twist yarns.
Intertextile Shenzhen Apparel Fabrics is a business-friendly platform for unveiling new trends, innovative models, and dynamic forces shaping the industry. By showcasing pioneering case studies and comprehensive solutions for industry advancement, the fair enables stakeholders to discover and adopt successful new models and technologies through engaging displays, seminars, and themed forums.
Held concurrently with Yarn Expo Shenzhen and PH Value, the fair is organised by Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd; Messe Frankfurt (Shenzhen) Co Ltd; the Sub-Council of Textile Industry, CCPIT; and the China Textile Information Center.
[1] Shenzhen dethrones Shanghai, Beijing as China’s top industrial powerhouse, mayor boasts, February 2026, SCMP,
https://www.scmp.com/economy/china-economy/article/3344481/shenzhen-dethrones-shanghai-beijing-chinas-top-industrial-powerhouse-mayor-boasts
STOCKHOLM, Sweden — May 22, 2026 — Following the opening of its new showroom and test centre in Sweden, imogo will be introducing its groundbreaking new Dye-Max spray dyeing technology to Türkiye’s textile manufacturers at ITM 2026 in Istanbul from June 9-13.
The company is one of several members of TMAS – the Swedish textile machinery association – introducing new technologies combining advanced process control, intelligent automation and long-term industrial reliability to visitors at the Istanbul exhibition.
TMAS Secretary General Therese Premler-Andersson
“Türkiye remains the bridge between Europe and Asia and one of the enduring strengths of its textiles and apparel sector is its deeply integrated value chain, spanning from fibre production through to garment manufacture within a tightly connected domestic ecosystem,” says TMAS General Secretary Therese Premler-Andersson.
“The industry also benefits from a skilled workforce, strong technical know-how and decades of export experience, alongside established capabilities in weaving, knitting and the dyeing and finishing of fabrics.”
Resource savings
The Dye-Max system at imogo’s new showroom in Sweden.
Having recently commissioned a Dye-Max for a key H&M supplier in Bangladesh, imogo – at stand 305 in Hall 3 at ITM – is confident Türkiye’s advanced dyeing and finishing specialists will quickly recognise its benefits.
Compared to conventional jet dyeing, the Dye-Max is achieving a 90% reduction in water consumption and energy savings of up to 90%, with considerably fewer chemicals and less dyestuffs also required.
“The savings in treatment water the Dye-Max achieves are due to the extremely low liquor ratio of 0.5 litres per kilo of fabric,” explains imogo executive partner and board member Christian Moore. “At the same time, the low liquor ratio and the spray process require considerably less auxiliary chemistry to start with, and all of it is used in the process, which also greatly reduces the production of wastewater, with only 20 litres being required for wash at changeovers. The low liquid content in the fabric meanwhile minimises the energy needed for fixation, while meeting industry quality standards and maintaining superior fabric performance.”
Automated quilting
The Automatex P12-PB quilting module is equipped with twelve modified servo-driven lock stitch sewing heads.
Also new is the Automatex P12-PB Automatic Lock Stitch Quilting Unit, engineered to deliver continuous, programmable quilting while reducing manual intervention in the stitching of bedding and padded home textiles.
Designed for high-volume manufacturers, the new P12-PB platform feeds fabric and filling directly into a quilting module equipped with twelve modified servo-driven lock stitch sewing heads. Arranged in two programmable banks of six, the heads allow producers to switch between straight line quilting and different shaped patterns without mechanical changeover, enabling flexible production runs while maintaining consistent stitch geometry.
At the core of the Automatex system is an automation architecture focused on maximising uptime. Each sewing head incorporates an automatic bobbin case changer supported by a retrieval system, allowing uninterrupted production during thread depletion. Thread break detectors further minimise defects, while servo indexing ensures accurate needle positioning across the working width. A colour touch screen interface simplifies pattern programming and machine operation and remote access capability enables troubleshooting and technical support without on-site intervention.
Operating at speeds of up to 12 metres per minute, the P12-PB is suitable for filling weights from 100-450gsm with stitch lengths between 3-4 mm. The machine produces various stitching patterns and straight lines at 21.7cm needle spacing, supporting a wide range of quilt constructions. It has been engineered for installation within standard industrial utility frameworks.
Technology assurances
Eltex of Sweden’s electronic yarn sensors and tension monitoring systems focus on early detection, identifying yarn breaks, end-outs or abnormal tension before they lead to waste, downtime or quality claims. From weaving and warping through to tufting, braiding, quilting and sewing, Eltex technology provides the assurance that modern automated processes depend on.
As production speeds increase and manual supervision is reduced, the ability to monitor yarn behaviour in real time becomes a key enabler of stable, high-quality output.
Perfectly uniform weft tension with Eltex ACT-R on a rapier weaving machine.
At ITM 2026 (Hall 7, stand 706a), Eltex will highlight its latest ACT-Multi system. It automatically ensures precise yarn tension across various textile processes, such as heat setting, through individual yarn monitoring and control based on a predefined reference tension. Each channel operates independently and the system also includes a machine stop function in the event of yarn breakage or if yarn tension operates outside preset limits.
Also showcased, will be the ACT-R system for rapier weaving machines which is highly effective in achieving constant weft yarn tension for yarns based on recycled fibres at one end of the scale, and for expensive technical yarns such as Kevlar at the other.
Tufting expertise
IRO’s tufting concept combines modular efficiency with single-hook performance and has already been sold to several producers in Türkiye.
in Hall 7 at stand 710a, Vandewiele company IRO Gauge Parts will further present its latest gauge parts developments with a strong focus on semi-modules and high-quality single hooks for the tufting industry.
IRO’s semi-module concept combines modular efficiency with single-hook performance and has already been sold to several producers in Türkiye. It is designed to give manufacturers a flexible, reliable and competitive solution for future production needs.
IRO will also highlight its high-quality single hooks, developed for accuracy, durability and consistent performance. Backed by modern production, precise grinding, controlled hardening and robust inspection, these hooks reflect IRO’s continued focus on quality and reliability.
Following Vandewiele’s acquisition of Cobble, gauge parts manufacturing for the group moved to Sweden in 2020, creating a stronger and more modern platform for future growth.
With stronger production capabilities, improved accuracy and full traceability, IRO continues to invest in gauge parts that help customers achieve stable performance and long-term value.
Forward thinking
“Türkiye’s specific difficulties due to rising production costs and intensified competition in 2025 have been well documented,” concludes Therese Premler-Andersson. “Nevertheless, TMAS members have been encouraged by the readiness of forward-thinking companies to adopt the latest technologies in order to gain competitive advantages and we are looking forward to an extremely productive four days in Istanbul.”
Posted: May 26, 2026
Source: The Swedish textile machinery association (TMAS)
GENEVA, Switzerland — May 22, 2026 — INDEX™ 26 Nonwovens Exhibition officially closed its doors today at Palexpo. In a context marked by uncertainty and continued pressure, the 2026 edition of INDEX™ concluded successfully. With a diverse range of 625 exhibiting companies from 44 countries, an important number of visitors, and an expanded international reach, the event confirmed its role as a central hub for innovation and a representative showcase of the nonwovens ecosystem.
Driven by the strong presence of exhibitors, the 2026 edition confirmed the continued relevance of the event. With 11,452 visits, the four-day event brought together a strong mix of global decision-makers and technical experts, who came to explore the sector’s evolution from mass-produced disposable items to high-tech, durable and sustainable solutions. The professional events were well attended, establishing the exhibition as an indispensable meeting place for sharing experience and passion for the industry.
Magali Fakhry Dufresne, Director of INDEX™, noted: “Despite the current geopolitical context, affecting travel conditions and budgets, the industry demonstrated a strong commitment to attend. Participants were keen to meet in person, reconnect with their peers and advance discussions. INDEX™ is a great opportunity for the young generation to discover many innovations all gathered under one roof. Once again, INDEX™ confirmed its role as a key event for the global nonwovens community every three years.”
She adds: “I also would like to thank the industry, and particularly the exhibitors, for their engagement and continued commitment. Exhibitors played a decisive role in the success of the edition, with high-quality, prestigious stands that reflected the strength and ambition of the sector.”
The defining theme of the 2026 edition was the integration of environmental responsibility and technical excellence. Industry representatives demonstrated that sustainability and performance now form a unified mission that permeates the entire value chain. A key focus was the increasing significance of reducing the carbon footprint as the industry’s primary performance indicator. E
xhibitors presented the latest production technologies designed to increase throughput and produce finer fibres. Circular design was a major focus of these developments, with many new materials replacing complex multi-layer structures with recyclable designs made from a single material. Furthermore, the event showcased high-performance protective textiles that meet new safety standards without the use of PFAS.
“The INDEX™26 seminar programme and products presentations showcased developments demonstrating how companies are achieving a competitive edge by going beyond regulatory compliance. It showed that it is vitally important for companies to adapt and be agile to successfully master new market challenges such as the Iranian and other crises”, added Pieter Meijer, Chairman of the INDEX™ Advisory Board.
Networking and immersive experiences
The exhibition offered a consistent experience-oriented approach, as evidenced by the numerous areas dedicated to innovation and technical demonstrations. The event also strengthened its networking dimension, introducing a unique ‘Women’s Networking Breakfast’ to build mentoring networks for the future of the community. The new immersive experience, ‘Nonwovens: In Every Layer of Life’, was well received, offering visitors a deeper understanding of the integral role these materials play in modern society. Over four days, Geneva provided the setting for an exhibition that remains a place of discovery for current and future technologies.
Looking to the future
Murat Dogru, General Manager of EDANA concludes: “INDEX™26 had demonstrated how innovation in the industry is now being driven by global collaboration. The synergy between automated machinery, smart chemistry, and extreme weight reduction has pointed to a promising direction for a more efficient, circular manufacturing landscape. We are already looking forward to INDEX™29 (May 15-18, 2029), to discuss the latest developments.”
