Techtextil and Texprocess, the world’s leading trade fairs for textile innovation, bring together a diverse mix of start-ups, universities, and research institutions to showcase forward-looking solutions for the global textile industry. With dedicated areas such as Campus & Research, strong start-up participation, and a focus on cutting-edge AI applications, the events highlight the latest advancements shaping the sector.
By connecting research, innovation, and practical applications, the trade fairs foster collaboration across the entire textile value chain. Exhibitors present a wide range of developments—from advanced materials and intelligent design tools to fully automated production systems.
Sabine Scharrer, Director Brand Management Technical Textiles & Textile Processing at Messe Frankfurt, emphasizes that these platforms bridge global research with industry needs, accelerating the journey of innovation from concept to market.
Campus & Research Expands Global Reach
The Campus & Research segment continues to grow in 2026, featuring around 40 universities and research institutes from across Europe, Asia, Africa, and South America. Institutions such as Saxion University of Applied Sciences, the University of Minho’s InnoFiber Research Lab, IMS Bauhaus Latino América, the Higher Institute of Technological Studies of Ksar Helal, and TU Dresden present their latest research findings.
A notable highlight includes RWTH Aachen University’s TFI Institute, which showcases a textile-based indoor navigation system designed to enhance accessibility for visually impaired individuals.
Start-ups Showcase Breakthrough Innovations
Approximately 20 start-ups are presenting their technologies, bringing fresh ideas to the forefront of the textile industry. Innovations range from sustainable fibre solutions and recyclable textiles to advanced nonwoven production techniques.
Companies such as Climatex, qCella, and R.O.A.M Systems introduce new approaches in fibre development and manufacturing processes. Meanwhile, Texprocess features AI-driven solutions from AiDLab and Prodactive Solutions, focusing on automated inspection and production optimization.
AI Applications Take Center Stage
Artificial intelligence plays a key role at both events, offering interactive and practical demonstrations. Visitors can experience AI in action through robotic systems, smart inspection technologies, and intelligent sorting solutions.
Exhibitors such as Style3D/Assyst, Willy Italiana, and Picvisa Machine Vision Systems demonstrate how AI is transforming textile production, quality control, and recycling processes. The “Texpertise Focus AI” initiative helps visitors easily identify exhibitors and presentations dedicated to AI innova