Performance Days, 2025, held in Munich on October 30, marked a milestone for the functional textile industry. With 4,500 professional visitors and 515 exhibitors, the fair showcased its growing influence as the leading business platform for textile innovation. The event’s expanded show areas, international audience, and curated programs highlighted key industry trends, particularly the Focus Topic “Textile to Textile – the role of recyclers.” This theme resonated throughout the fair, emphasizing recyclability and circularity as central to the industry’s transformation.

Innovation Areas: A Hub for Sustainable Progress

One of the fair’s standout features was the redesigned Innovation Area in hall A1. Collaborating with the Future Fabrics Expo, the Innovation Hub presented cutting-edge sustainable materials and explored alternatives to traditional fibers like virgin polyester and conventional cotton. Amanda Johnston, Chief Design Officer of Future Fabrics Expo, emphasized the importance of accessible sustainable innovations, stating, “Our goal is to encourage the industry to explore diverse material possibilities in performance wear.” The Creative Area, curated by designer and color expert Nora Kühner, merged design and function through upcycled pieces and innovative material combinations. Kühner praised the fair’s vision: “Performance Days delivers a clear message about the industry’s future – with a concept that truly works.”

Specialized Areas Driving Engagement

The Wool Area, developed in collaboration with IWTO, Woolmark, and the Campaign for Wool, offered a compact and focused experience. Visitors explored technical topics and industry trends in a curated space, described by Magdalena White of IWTO as “a large, well-curated material library.” Meanwhile, the Sustainability Lounge attracted a younger audience with its open design and in-depth content. Anna Rodewald from Greenroomvoice highlighted the success of the new format, noting the increased participation of young professionals.

DAY 0 Conference: Rethinking Waste

The DAY 0 Conference, held on the eve of the fair, introduced a dynamic workshop-based format under the theme “In Nature there is no waste.” Led by textile expert Bowie Miles, the session encouraged participants to rethink industry practices and foster collaboration. Stewart Sheppard, S2 Consultant, praised the concept: “The interaction creates room for networking and exchange. This is how new projects are born.”

The Expert Talks Stage was another highlight, hosting panels on recycling, circularity, and upcoming EU regulations. Industry leaders shared insights, making the stage a hub for innovation and knowledge transfer. Eva Doll, Brand Strategy Manager EMEA at Polygiene, summed up the event’s impact: “Each edition of the fair marks another step up in quality. Performance Days is the best show out there.”

Looking Ahead to 2026

Performance Days 2025 reaffirmed its position as the premier event for functional fabrics and textile innovation. With record-breaking attendance, inspiring formats, and a focus on sustainability, the fair set the stage for a promising future. As the industry continues to evolve, Performance Days remains committed to driving progress and innovation.