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Techtextil and Texprocess return in April 2026 with a new layout, enhanced thematic areas, and a clear focus on sustainability. In an interview, the fair’s director, Sabine Scharrer, previews the main highlights of the upcoming edition, discussing the challenges and opportunities in the textile sector, the role of innovation and collaboration, and also highlights Portugal’s dynamic contribution to this leading international platform.
What new features can we expect from the 2026 edition?
Techtextil and Texprocess 2026 (21–24 April) bring an updated hall layout and new product segments.
For the first time, there will be a separate area for Textile Chemicals & Dyes in Hall 9.0. Right next to the Performance Apparel Textiles area. The benefit: great synergies and direct connections between providers, suppliers and users. Manufacturers of performance apparels find Fibres & Yarns – their suppliers – right in the same hall. The apparel industry benefits from the short distance to Texprocess in Hall 8.0. And it’s just a short walk to Textile Production Technologies in Hall 12.0 and Performance Apparel Textiles in Hall 9.0.
In Hall 9.1, the Nature Performance area focuses on the growing demand for natural but at the same time performance-oriented materials.
The new layout brings everyone closer together. It creates more networking, more customer contact, and stronger links between key product areas.
Considering the EU’s sustainability requirements, what specific initiatives will the organization implement to strengthen circular economy practices and traceability in the 2026 edition?
EU sustainability regulations challenge the entire sector. Companies need to find new solutions – in terms of processes and materials.
Techtextil and Texprocess offer targeted support: areas like Nature Performance or recycled fibres and materials, expert-led tours, and the Techtextil Forum and Texprocess Forum. We invite industry and regulation experts like EURATEX and research institutions to share insights and promote exchange. And we list exhibitors with sustainable offers in the Econogy Finder – checked by independent sustainability experts. This visibility accelerates innovation and collaboration.
Despite the pressure, the situation sparks innovations. New processes in recycling technology and sustainable materials are emerging. We are excited to give them access to a global audience at Techtextil and Texprocess.
What are the main challenges and opportunities currently facing the textile sector?
The textile industry is currently facing serious challenges, but also promising opportunities. On the one hand, rising energy and raw material costs, supply chain disruptions, and cautious consumer spending continue to put pressure on many businesses. We’re also seeing a slowdown in investment and growing uncertainty due to geopolitical tensions. At the same time, companies are being pushed to meet increasingly complex sustainability and regulatory requirements. These factors demand significant transformation, often with limited resources.
On the other hand, there are clear opportunities. Innovation is booming – whether in technical textiles, smart fabrics, or sustainable production. Automation, AI, and digital solutions are helping streamline processes and reduce costs. Markets like mobility, healthcare, protective wear, and sportswear continue to grow.
Techtextil and Texprocess provide a vital platform to explore these dynamics. They connect companies with the right partners, new markets, and the latest technologies. That’s why we see strong interest for 2026 – from both, established leaders and a high number of first-time exhibitors.
How do you view the Portuguese technical textiles market? Is it dynamic, innovative, and simultaneously sustainable?
Portugal’s textile industry stands for textile excellence. Textiles are deeply rooted in the country’s DNA. That’s why many premium brands rely on Portuguese manufacturers. Few production countries are as strongly linked to sustainability – driven by high innovation. Research institutes like CITEVE are pushing those developments.
Portugal ranks among our top 10 exhibitor nations and will again have a country pavilion in 2026. At the same time, it is one of the largest visitor countries at both trade fairs. So, participation from Portugal is lively.
We’re eager to see what new products and ideas the exhibitors from Portugal will be showcasing in April.
Could you share a message encouraging Portuguese companies to register?
We welcome every Portuguese company to join us. Techtextil and Texprocess offer the ideal platform to reach an international, cross-industry audience, connect with research institutes, experts, and innovators, and tap into new markets. It’s a unique opportunity to win customers, find business partners, and tackle industry challenges together. Use this stage to position your company globally and secure your future. With strong registrations already, April 2026 promises two powerful editions – we look forward to your participation!
How has the profile of the fair’s visitors evolved?
We had 29% more visitors at the last edition of Techtextil and Texprocess. It shows: Many industries are seeking for future-oriented textile solutions. They count on Techtextil and Texprocess as the number one industry platforms for innovations.
The visitor profile at Techtextil and Texprocess is diverse. We address a wide range of industries – from automotive and medicine to apparel. Our audience includes manufacturers, engineers, architects, industrial designers, R&D professionals, and key decision-makers from 112 countries. In fact, 75% of our visitors are involved in purchasing decisions.
You’ve often highlighted that in-person meetings are irreplaceable and essential to creating synergies. Would you say that collaboration between companies, research centers, and other actors is now crucial to thrive?
Yes – collaboration is more important than ever. There’s no real alternative for face-to-face interaction – that’s what our exhibitors and visitors consistently show us. Techtextil and Texprocess go beyond connecting suppliers and customers. We encourage building partnerships and discovering joint solutions.
In Frankfurt, we bring together universities, research institutes, manufacturers, start-ups, industry leaders, and newcomers – a perfect mix to shape the future of the industry.