A. Sampaio and WAT confirm the strategic importance of Performance Days

Portugal’s participation at Performance Days in Munich concluded yesterday, with a positive assessment from the companies integrated into the Sustainable Textile & Apparel From Portugal project, promoted by ATP – the Portuguese Textile and Apparel Association.

WAT gave a very positive evaluation of its presence. “The fair has evolved a lot; we will participate in the next edition, and we have already registered,” said Júlia Soares, the company’s Sourcing and Sales Manager. WAT had previously attended in 2022, but this time noted “a much greater movement.” “We received more contacts from the UK,” she added, highlighting that Performance Days is primarily a fair for consolidating the European market. This edition, WAT was located near the bodywear area but expects to move halls in 2026 to be closer to other leading Portuguese companies.

A.Sampaio & Filhos, a regular presence at the event, also reported a positive outcome. Speaking to T Jornal, Miguel Mendes, the company’s administrator, emphasized that the fair “met our expectations,” with “high foot traffic and several scheduled meetings” throughout the event.

According to Mendes, Performance Days “started very small but has maintained the interest of relevant brands,” and is also “one of the few fairs that continues to grow.” The company also participated in the main Forum, which this year focused on “Textile to Textile – The Role of Recyclers”, showcasing two samples developed to highlight the potential of recycling and A. Sampaio & Filhos’ commitment to sustainability.

Regarding the company’s performance in 2025, Miguel Mendes noted that “first-half results met expectations” and expressed confidence in closing the year with growth – “which, given the global situation, is very positive,” he emphasized.

The importance of Performance Days is also reflected in the numbers: this autumn edition was completely sold out, with more than 520 exhibitors – a 10% increase compared to the previous year. According to the official press release, the fair’s continued success is based on a careful selection of exhibitors according to sustainability and innovation criteria.

“While others are rethinking their formats, we are moving full speed ahead,” said Marco Weichert, Founder and CEO of Performance Days, in a statement. “The industry responds to quality, relevance, and credibility. Our concept works because it links innovation with responsibility – and that is exactly what the market needs right now.”

Due to strong demand, there is already a waiting list for the March edition next year. “We are on the right path and will continue to evolve the platform to meet the industry’s needs,” Weichert added.

In addition to A. Sampaio & Filhos and WAT, the Portuguese delegation included Casa da Malha, Comfysocks, LMA, Lunartex, NGS Malhas, and Sidónios Malhas, all of which used the fair to strengthen contacts and present their latest sports and outdoor collections.