KARL MAYER opens Textile Innovation Center in Obertshausen ahead of Techtextil 2026
KARL MAYER is placing a clear focus on performance fabrics and advanced textile applications as key areas for growth across the industry. To support this direction, the company is launching its new Textile Innovation Center (TIC) in Obertshausen, Germany designed as a practical space where ideas can be developed, tested and refined in close collaboration with customers and partners.
Spanning 5,000 square metres, the TIC brings together textile development, machine technology and training under one roof. The goal is simple: make product development faster, more efficient and closer to real market needs.
A central feature of the facility is the showroom, where visitors can explore a wide range of textile samples, concept materials and application ideas. These are organised into key segments such as fashion and apparel, sports textiles, footwear, home textiles and technical textiles. The space also includes trend-based collections developed through ongoing market research, offering a clear view of where demand is heading.
Alongside the showroom, the INSPIRATIONHUB gives access to nearly 90 years of textile patterns and developments. This archive serves as a practical reference point for designers and developers looking to build on proven ideas rather than starting from scratch.
The TIC also focuses heavily on hands-on development. Customers can run trials, test materials and simulate production processes using a range of warp knitting and textile machines. These include equipment for producing new warp knitted fabrics, solutions for lightweight construction, machines for technical applications such as protective textiles, and systems for efficient processing of performance materials.
This setup allows companies to move from concept to near-series production within a single environment. It also helps reduce development risks by testing ideas under real conditions before scaling up.
Another key element is the involvement of KARL MAYER’s technical team. Specialists with experience across different textile sectors work directly with customers, offering support in materials, processes and machine use. Their network includes fibre producers, research institutes and technology partners, which can be useful when developing more complex applications.
Training is also part of the concept. The KARL MAYER Academy is now integrated into the TIC, offering courses for technicians, brand teams, service staff and students. The focus is on practical learning, with direct access to machines and real production scenarios.
The official opening of the Textile Innovation Center is scheduled for 21 to 24 April 2026 in Obertshausen, taking place alongside Techtextil Frankfurt 2026. Visitors from across the textile value chain are expected to attend, including manufacturers, brands and industry professionals.
With this new facility, KARL MAYER is creating a space where collaboration and practical development come together reflecting how textile innovation increasingly depends on shared expertise and real-world testing.
