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Axfilia’s participation at A+A in Düsseldorf is exceeding expectations, largely due to the company’s expanded sectoral focus – with particular emphasis on the military field. “We are positively surprised by the activity at the fair. Visitors have shown growing interest in the military segment,” says Maria José Machado, Axfilia’s administrator, in an interview with T Jornal.
Among the innovations presented, the Thermocore Heat Dispersion system for ballistic vests stands out. This is an innovative solution that combines multiple technologies – at the fiber, finishing, and structural levels – with the goal of reducing thermal stress. It is a lightweight, high-performance system developed for use by military forces, police, security personnel, and also for civilian applications.
“The product is innovative due to its thermal management and lightness,” explains Machado, emphasizing that the project was developed in partnership with ACE Link, with Axfilia’s contribution focused mainly on ergonomics and comfort.
The administrator highlights that this innovation reflects the philosophy applied across the company’s entire offering. “Axfilia builds personal protective equipment, workwear, and technical apparel where performance is a priority, durability is non-negotiable, and total cost of use is always at the center of our solutions.”
“We create high-performance garments under a 360º proprietary brand model, designed to meet all industry challenges, including industrial laundries and the defense and emergency sectors. We prioritize robust construction and high lifecycle value because we believe true innovation is providing reliable, long-lasting, mission-ready products.”
This development was recently awarded at the Professional Clothing Industry Association Worldwide (PCIAW) Summit Awards, held on October 29–30 in London. Thermocore won the PCIAW Defence & Security PPE Innovation Award, a recognition that, according to Maria José Machado, “reinforces our focus on mission-ready solutions and validates our performance-oriented design approach for defense and security contexts. Our goal is to continue consolidating Axfilia as a reference in military-grade PPE innovation.”
Although Thermocore is the highlight of the stand, its presentation has also opened doors for other company offerings. Most potential clients are European, but Axfilia has also recorded commercial contacts from North and South America – a strategic geography where the company is now beginning to establish a presence.
Axfilia is participating in A+A as part of the Sustainable Textile & Apparel From PORTUGAL project, promoted by ATP – the Portuguese Textile and Apparel Association – which brings together several national companies on a shared exhibition island.
Maria José Machado underscores the importance of this collective presence: “I am a strong advocate of Portugal’s strength in going as a group. We are a potential full-service supplier, from raw materials to finished products. It is essential to present ourselves as a whole to be seen more strongly,” she concludes.