Innovation takes centre stage at Techtextil and Texprocess press conference
Against a backdrop of economic uncertainty, geopolitical tension and cautious investment, the global textile industry is leaning on innovation to stay resilient. This message came through clearly at the recent press conference for Techtextil and Texprocess, where industry leaders discussed how new technologies, materials and production models are reshaping the sector.
During a panel discussion, speakers highlighted how innovation is no longer optional but essential for maintaining competitiveness. From artificial intelligence and digital design tools to sustainable materials and circular production methods, progress across the value chain is accelerating. Much of this momentum is captured through the Techtextil and Texprocess Innovation Awards, which bring together practical solutions that are already moving from development into industrial use.
“Especially in times of restrained investment, it becomes clear just how crucial innovative strength is,” said Olaf Schmidt, Vice President Textiles & Textile Technologies at Messe Frankfurt. He explained that Techtextil and Texprocess serve as more than presentation platforms. They help turn ideas into market-ready solutions by creating visibility, trust and connections. The Innovation Awards, he added, often provide the push needed for research projects to become viable products and partnerships.
Competitiveness under global pressure was another key theme. Elgar Straub, Managing Director of VDMA Textile Care, Fabric and Leather Technologies, stressed that innovation supports both efficiency and growth. Digitalisation, automation and AI allow companies to save resources, respond more flexibly to demand and sharpen their market positioning. These tools are helping businesses operate more efficiently while opening doors to new business models.
Practical examples from industry showed how far digital processes have already changed textile development. Walter Wählt, Chairman of the Texprocess Innovation Award and Senior Director Advanced Creation at adidas, pointed to the growing role of 3D design, virtual prototyping and AI. These tools shorten development cycles and reduce material waste at an early stage. Still, he was clear that technology does not replace people. Creativity, experience and informed decision-making remain central to successful product development.
Sustainability was discussed as both an environmental and economic challenge. António Braz Costa, Chairman of the Techtextil Innovation Award and General Manager at CITEVE, emphasised that research and advanced materials are key to making sustainable solutions viable at scale. Recycling methods, circular systems and new fibre concepts only matter once they move beyond the laboratory. What counts is their integration into real production processes. Trade fairs such as Techtextil and Texprocess, along with the Innovation Awards, play an important role in connecting research with industry needs.
Together, the Techtextil and Texprocess Innovation Awards present a clear picture of where the textile sector is heading. They show how technical textiles, nonwovens and processing technologies are evolving through AI, advanced materials and more resource-efficient production. They also underline why innovation is becoming a decisive factor for long-term competitiveness.
Techtextil and Texprocess will take place from 21 to 24 April 2026 in Frankfurt. The winners of the Techtextil and Texprocess Innovation Awards will be announced starting on 14 April 2026.
