06/02/2026 – Techtextil and Texprocess 2026 — auf Deutsch lesen
Innovation Remains the Industry’s Key Driver
he statements made at the 15 January press conference for Techtextil and Texprocess continue to set the tone for the sector. Artificial intelligence, advanced materials and digital processes are shaping the next stage of textile transformation. Both trade fairs consolidate these developments through their Innovation Awards, which highlight solutions with practical relevance for industrial application.
Techtextil and Texprocess panel discussion: Industry representatives discussed on 15 January how innovations - from AI to advanced materials - are driving the transformation of the textile sector. © Messe Frankfurt / Pietro Sutera
Clear Signals at the Start of the Year
The industry begins 2026 under noticeable investment pressure. Many companies are assessing how to remain operational while navigating economic uncertainty. During the panel discussion, industry representatives outlined how innovation accelerates processes and enhances competitiveness. The message from the organisers reinforced this direction: innovative strength is becoming a decisive factor for positioning in global markets.
What Digitalisation Can Deliver Today
Olaf Schmidt, Vice President Textiles & Textile Technologies at Messe Frankfurt, emphasised the strategic value of innovation: „Especially in times of restrained investment, it becomes clear just how crucial innovative strength is.“ His assessment that the two fairs serve as platforms where ideas mature into market-ready solutions aligns with expectations across the technical textiles chain.
Walter Wählt, Chairman of the Texprocess Innovation Award and Senior Director Advanced Creation at adidas, illustrated the impact of digital tools: „3D design, virtual prototyping and AI drastically shorten development cycles and reduce material use.“ His remarks underline the role of digital processes in product development and resource efficiency.
Research and Materials Moving Towards Application
The link between advanced research and industrial feasibility was a central point for António Braz Costa, Chairman of the Techtextil Innovation Award and General Manager at CITEVE: „Sustainability, particularly when applied to high-performance materials and products, only becomes economically viable through a virtuous tandem of research and innovation.“ His statement reflects why recycling technologies, circular concepts and new materials must transition from the laboratory into production environments to generate real value.
Looking Ahead to the Fair
The Innovation Awards act as a condensed overview of developments in technical textiles, nonwovens and textile processing. They show how AI, novel materials and sustainable manufacturing methods are driving change across the industry. Techtextil and Texprocess will take place from 21 to 24 April 2026. The winners of the Innovation Awards will be announced from 14 April. Innovation therefore remains central for companies seeking resilience and competitiveness in a demanding environment.
