The inaugural Textiles Recycling Expo, held on 4–5 June 2025 in Brussels, has been hailed as a milestone event in the journey toward circularity in the textile sector. Gathering 3,336 attendees from 67 countries and featuring 126 exhibitors, it became the largest-ever global platform dedicated solely to textiles recycling.
The expo attracted stakeholders from the entire textile value chain — including waste management firms, recycling innovators, textile producers, and top retail and fashion brands like Nike, H&M, Chanel, Ikea, Zara, Gucci, and Patagonia. These industry giants brought with them a strong focus on sustainability and next-gen recycling solutions.
Aurel Ciobanu-Dordea, Director for Circular Economy at the European Commission, inaugurated the event, praising the cutting-edge technologies on display and the event’s vibrant atmosphere. Live demos from companies like Valvan and NewRetex showcased innovations in automated sorting systems.
Over 50 expert speakers engaged audiences in packed conference sessions covering policy updates, practical recycling methods, and technology breakthroughs. A notable highlight was the Industry Alliance Hub, which facilitated networking among major players like EURATEX, ReHubs, EuRIC, and others.
Event Manager Zied Chetoui expressed enthusiasm over the reception and emphasized the event’s role in setting a benchmark for collaborative innovation in textile sustainability.
The expo’s success underlined the sector’s growing commitment to recycling and inspired new global partnerships. The next editions are already scheduled — Charlotte, NC (29–30 April 2026) and Brussels (24–25 June 2026) — with exhibitor interest already high.