From the Sector

From April 21 to 24, 2026, the Trützschler Group will present its future‑ready solutions at Techtextil in Frankfurt, Germany. Trützschler Nonwovens will showcase its latest developments for efficient nonwovens production, including comprehensive service and consulting solutions. Highlights include the fully upgraded X‑Series nonwoven cards suitable for spunlace, needle‑punching and air‑through bonding (ATB) processes, as well as the T‑ONE digital working environment enhanced with new features. Trützschler Card Clothing will complement the presentation with a new card wire designed with a specially engineered surface for high‑performance nonwoven applications. Visitors can also take a closer look at Trützschler’s complete solution for the recycling of textile waste, TRUECYCLED. 

Trützschler Nonwovens
The T-SUPREMA needle punching line has proven its performance in the market, with lines successfully operating at two customer sites since early this year. It demonstrates the exceptional versatility of needle-punched nonwovens, covering basis weights from below 50 gsm to above 2,000 gsm. New streamlined configurations featuring the compact NC-Xe card further reduce the footprint while ensuring high process stability and consistent product quality.

Beyond complete line solutions, Trützschler Nonwovens will showcase upgrades to its single machine portfolio, including the X-Series nonwovens cards (the high-speed card NCT-X, the versatile NC-X and the compact NC-Xe), the MPD high-performance dryer and the new compact AquaJet-X. These developments are designed to combine compact machine concepts with high operational reliability and outstanding performance.

At Techtextil 2026, Trützschler Nonwovens will also highlight its advanced ATB technology for hygiene applications. The process enables the reliable processing of ultra fine fibers down to 0.4 dtex, producing exceptionally soft nonwovens that meet the highest requirements for softness and performance in baby diaper applications.

T‑ONE, Trützschler Nonwovens’ digital working environment, serves as a powerful digital backbone for any nonwoven line. New enhancements include an energy management function for real‑time monitoring of electricity and gas consumption and CO₂ footprint calculation per time unit, roll or order, as well as camera‑based anomaly detection that identifies fiber migration and accumulations at an early stage. This helps to prevent unplanned downtime while improving process stability and production transparency.

With tailored modernization and development solutions, Trützschler Nonwovens supports manufacturers in optimizing existing installations and translating new product ideas into stable, industrial scale production. Application-specific consulting enables higher efficiency, increased output and longer service life – without compromising quality.

Trützschler Card Clothing (TCC): Next‑generation card clothing for demanding nonwovens applications
Visitors can experience top nonwovens performance with our high-efficiency card clothing. Our TCC experts will present our latest innovation: a new wire with special surface designed for Hygiene, Spunlace and ATB applications. It ensures cleaner operation, less contamination and reduced downtime - delivering maximum productivity for your line. More details will be revealed at the exhibition – don’t miss this opportunity to see it first hand. 

Trützschler Spinning: TRUECYCLED – the complete solution for textile recycling    
Visitors can also learn more about TRUECYCLED, Trützschler’s complete solution for the recycling of textile waste. It covers the complete process: from cutting and tearing textile waste to carding and drawing secondary fibers. Based on Trützschler’s technological recommendations and a Trützschler machinery line-up, it ensures the best possible quality of the end product. 

As India’s textile and apparel industry continues to expand its global footprint while adapting to evolving manufacturing technologies and sustainability priorities, Gartex Texprocess India Mumbai incorporating the Denim Show will bring together the apparel and garment manufacturing value chain from 9 – 11 April 2026, at the Bombay Exhibition Centre, Mumbai. 

The exhibition will serve as a platform for the machinery manufacturers, technology providers, fabric suppliers, textile printers and accessories suppliers to connect, explore innovations and strengthen business collaborations across the textile and garment manufacturing ecosystem.

*India’s textile and apparel sector – valued at nearly USD 179 billion, remains a key pillar of the economy, contributing around 2% to the GDP nearly 11% to manufacturing GVA and over 8% to exports while supporting the livelihoods of 45 million people across the value chain. Besides being the largest cultivator of cotton and producer of jute and silk, backed by rich legacy of India’s timeless textile designs, the country has set a precedent in also in manufacturing of manmade textile ecosystem. These reflect the scale, diversity and potential of India’s textile ecosystem.

Amidst this evolving industry backdrop Gartex Texprocess India Mumbai will bring together more than 125 companies participating at the show presenting solutions across apparel and garment manufacturing technologies, denim manufacturers, fabrics, trims, accessories and textile printing solutions. The event will feature participation from companies representing key textile technology markets including Italy, Germany, China, Japan, Taiwan and Hong Kong. Visitors will have access to over 500 products and 300 brands along with some new participants at the show. The fair will see new products launches, expected during the show. 

Exhibitor showcase will cover a wide range of technologies and solutions including garment and apparel machinery, textile processing machinery, textile printing machinery, digital printing technologies, yarn and knitting machinery, printing and dyeing equipment, automation and software, testing equipment, packaging and labelling solutions as well as fabrics, trims and accessories.

Mr Raj Manek, Executive Director & Board Member, Messe Frankfurt Asia Holdings Ltd expressed: “India’s textile industry is witnessing strong momentum driven by technological advancement, global sourcing opportunities and increasing emphasis on sustainability. Platforms such as Gartex Texprocess India play an important role in bringing together industry stakeholders to explore innovations, share knowledge and build partnerships that support the sector’s next phase of growth.” 

Likewise, Mr Gaurav Juneja, Director, MEX Exhibitions Pvt Ltd, shared: “The garment and textile manufacturing sector continues to evolve with growing demand for advanced machinery, efficient processing technologies and integrated supply chains. Through Gartex Texprocess India and it’s co-located shows, we aim to provide a focused platform for technology providers manufacturers and suppliers to engage with industry professionals and explore new business opportunities.” 

Reflecting evolving manufacturing needs, this edition will also see expanded product categories such as knitting machinery and fusing technologies supporting efficiency and precision in garment production. The co-located shows will further highlight specialised industry segments. The Denim Show supported by the Denim Manufacturers Association will present innovations from denim mills, fabric producers, finishing and washing technology providers, dyes and chemicals suppliers and denim garment manufacturing machinery companies. 

As sustainability and circularity become increasingly important across the global textile supply chains, exhibitors are also expected to highlight technologies aimed at improving resource efficiency, reducing water, energy consumption, enabling recycling and supporting environmentally responsible production processes.

The trade fair will see participation from Indian brands like: Balaji Sewing Machine, Bekah, Benz Embroidery, Brother, DCC, Dollar, Epson, Fynd, HSW, Jack, Jaysynth, Lordi Mehala Machines, Mexum, National Fabricator, Om Satya, Optitex, Siruba, Stampit Robotai, V Design and many more prestigious brands. The Denim show in association with the Denim Manufacturers Association will showcase brands like: Ginni International, LNJ Denim, Oswal Denim, Siyaram’s, Syama Denims and many more.

In addition to the exhibition, the event will also feature knowledge-sharing sessions and industry discussions, bringing together experts and stakeholders to exchange insights across Gartex Talks and Denim Talks. The topics** will be around: From Data to Design: Turning Consumer Insights into Winning Products, Culture to Commerce, How Global Cultural Shifts Are Shaping the Next Fashion Trends, AI in Apparel Manufacturing: From Prediction to Production, Athleisure Evolution: When Performance Fabrics Go Mainstream, The Future of Garment Machinery: Speed, Precision & Sustainability, Towards Zero-Waste Textile Production: Innovations in Machinery & Technology, Digital Textile Printing: The Next Frontier of Customization and more.

The expo is jointly organised by Messe Frankfurt Trade Fairs India Pvt Ltd and MEX Exhibitions Pvt Ltd.

For the first time, Barmag is presenting itself alongside its new parent company, Rieter: At this year’s ITM in Istanbul, both companies will be represented from June 9 to 13 at the Tüyap Fair Convention and Congress Center.

As a technology leader in the field of chemical fiber equipment, Barmag will showcase its entire portfolio of systems for filament yarn, staple fiber, and nonwoven production, as well as solutions for the networked factory. 

The future of filament spinning
The new POY 2.0 concept already impressed industry experts at ITMA Asia + CITME 2025. Presented to only a select group in Singapore, the heart of the concept—the semi-automated winding machine—will be shown to the general public for the first time. WINGS POY 2.0 features an automatic string-up function – a long-awaited feature in the market that keeps string-up times consistently short and sustainably reduces waste. At the same time, staffing requirements at the winding level are reduced, which represents a significant advantage for many spinning mills given the increasing shortage of skilled personnel. Numerous other features make the entire concept a sustainable solution with significant optimizations in terms of energy efficiency, material consumption, waste production, and yarn quality.

Efficient texturing with eFK EvoSmart
Barmag’s manual texturing machine, the eFK EvoSmart, focuses on energy-efficient yarn production while delivering the highest yarn quality. The technological features of the eFK EvoSmart sustainably reduce both energy consumption and operating costs—without compromising on quality and process reliability. By combining energy-optimized process control with innovative components such as EvoHeater and Smart Godets, the eFK EvoSmart achieves a significant reduction in specific energy consumption—with potential savings of 25% per kilogram of yarn. Additional features reduce maintenance requirements by up to 50%.

Neumag’s EvoSteam process reaches perfection 
The state-of-the-art Neumag EvoSteam process, which impresses not only with significant energy savings but also with even better fiber quality, is complemented by two new developments: EvoDuct and EvE-2. EvoDuct optimizes airflow distribution in the air jet, resulting in lower pressure drop, reduced energy consumption, and a more uniform airflow. Together, these factors have a positive effect on fiber quality and fiber uniformity. EvE-2 improves monomer and hot air extraction. The extraction nozzles minimize air turbulence and improve the uniformity of cooling in the air jet. The monomer extraction system, accessible from the outside, facilitates maintenance work and significantly increases spinning performance.

Another component of this perfected concept is the wiping robot, which is already in use in a similar manner at the Barmag filament spinning mill. This means that the benefits—consistent, excellent wiping quality, extended cleaning intervals, reduced labor costs, savings on consumables, and the synchronization of cleaning cycles with can changes and splice management—are now available in the staple fiber process.

Setting new standards in BCF yarn production
With its BICO BCF technology, the Neumag brand is introducing a completely new type of yarn to the market that takes carpet performance to a new level: greater bulk, improved recovery properties, and all this with approximately 20% less pile yarn consumption—without compromising the brand’s renowned high quality. The result: lighter carpets with the very high quality characteristics of Neumag yarns.

Also new to the portfolio: Neumag’s FiberGuard BCF – an intelligent system combining sensors and software that measures yarn tension between the twisting and winding stages in real time. The software automatically reacts to deviations and adjusts the process independently. This means: less waste, higher efficiency, and greater sustainability. FiberGuard is compatible with all current BCF machines and can be easily retrofitted into existing BCF S8 machines.

Toward the networked factory with atmos.io 
atmos.io is the operating system for intelligent yarn production. Every machine – whether a pilot plant or large-scale production with hundreds of positions – comes with the digital core. This makes atmos.io the basis for the smart factory. In the integrated app store, yarn manufacturers can put together exactly what they really need. atmos.io provides data-based decision-making criteria – objectively, efficiently and with a focus on quality. It digitizes the entire material flow: every bobbin carries its own data, from the melt to the warehouse. This allows yarn manufacturers to intervene in production at any time – quickly, precisely and profitably. The advantages: less waste, higher yarn quality, less effort for shop floor employees. The system integrates seamlessly into existing production and IT infrastructures. atmos.io relies on an intelligent data infrastructure that meets the highest standards of cyber security while providing consistent, trustworthy data for secure and efficient process control.

Leading computerized flat knitting innovator SHIMA SEIKI MFG., LTD. of Wakayama, Japan is partnering with digital garment solutions provider CLO Virtual Fashion of Seoul, South Korea for the integration of technology in garment design and simulation. 
 
Through this partnership, by integrating SHIMA SEIKI’s APEXFiz® 3D design software with CLO’s advanced 3D garment simulation technology, a new workflow that combines the strengths of both companies is enabled—from knitwear planning and design to high-quality product simulation, animation and various other content usage, as well as seamless linkage to the manufacturing process. 
 
Until now, importing material data created in APEXFiz® into CLO consisted of manually loading numerous material layers along with settings and adjustments. In the upcoming versions scheduled for release, APEXFiz® will feature a dedicated export function for CLO, while CLO will enable one-click import functionality with the APEXFiz® Integration Plugin. This enhancement will provide users employing both products with a significantly smoother and more efficient environment. 
 
By expanding creative capability while eliminating traditional barriers between design and production, the collaboration allows users to move from digital concept to knitted output with unprecedented efficiency. Users can now generate accurate, high-quality knit imagery that can take advantage of CLO’s strength in animated production, metaverse applications and even game usage, and furthermore design with the confidence that these digital creations can then be translated into real-world production. 
 
Software integration is set for April, supported by the V-09C update from SHIMA SEIKI in March and the CLO 2026.0 release for enterprise users in April. 

Having achieved rapid market success with its fully automated fitted sheet system, Automatex, a member of TMAS, the Swedish textile machinery association, has developed a quilting machine which doubles productivity compared to what has previously been achievable.

The P12-PB Automatic Lock Stitch Quilting Unit is engineered to deliver continuous, programmable quilting while reducing manual intervention in the stitching of bedding and padded home textiles.

“Across our member companies we are seeing automation move beyond individual machines towards intelligent, interconnected production environments,” says TMAS General Secretary Therese Premler-Andersson. “Solutions like this demonstrate how textile technology manufacturers are pushing the boundaries of consistency, productivity and digital control in areas that were traditionally dependent on operator skill.”

Maximising uptime
Designed for high-volume manufacturers, the new P12-PB platform feeds fabric and filling directly into a quilting module equipped with twelve modified servo-driven lock stitch sewing heads. Arranged in two programmable banks of six, the heads allow producers to switch between straight line quilting and different shaped patterns without mechanical changeover, enabling flexible production runs while maintaining consistent stitch geometry. 

At the core of the Automatex system is an automation architecture focused on maximising uptime. Each sewing head incorporates an automatic bobbin case changer supported by a retrieval system, allowing uninterrupted production during thread depletion. Thread break detectors further minimise defects, while servo indexing ensures accurate needle positioning across the working width. A colour touch screen interface simplifies pattern programming and machine operation and remote access capability enables troubleshooting and technical support without on-site intervention. 

Operating at speeds of up to 12 metres per minute, the P12-PB is suitable for filling weights from 100-450 gsm with stitch lengths between 3-4 mm. The machine produces various stitching patterns and straight lines at 21.7 cm needle spacing, supporting a wide range of quilt constructions. It has been engineered for installation within standard industrial utility frameworks. 

“The P12-PB can be connected directly in-line with our automated sewing and folding systems to form a continuous production chain, from fibre processing through to finished product handling,” says Automatex Director of Business Development Chuck deSousa. 

Girbau, a global leader in commercial and industrial laundry solutions, has developed a new industrial laundry for PortAventura World, one of Europe’s most visited theme resorts, with millions of visitors each year. The facility is a turnkey project delivered by Girbau, from design and consulting through to implementation, with the capacity to process up to 15 tonnes of laundry per day. It has been designed to deliver efficiency, reliability and sustainability, providing service not only to the resort but also to nearby hotels, tourist accommodations and businesses requiring a high-performance professional service. 

The project originated from PortAventura World’s need to establish a completely new industrial laundry capable of handling high daily production volumes without interruption. To achieve this, the company opted for a comprehensive approach that combined strategic consulting, customised design, high-capacity machinery and automation, with the goal of making solid decisions from day one and ensuring an efficient start-up.

Girbau supported PortAventura World throughout the entire process through 360º consulting, which included a detailed analysis of production needs, the design of the laundry facility and a ramp-up process with training prior to opening and follow-up during the post-installation start-up. This approach made it possible to make decisions based on data and clear forecasts, ensuring that the solution matched the project’s requirements precisely.

The facility incorporates comprehensive high-capacity industrial laundry solutions. Specifically, it integrates the company’s entire ecosystem of solutions in a fully coordinated way, covering everything from washing processes to internal logistics. The installation includes a TBS50 washing tunnel, SPR50 extraction press, ST industrial dryers, high-capacity washers and commercial dryers, as well as overhead loading systems, two ironing lines, garment strapping solutions and advanced internal logistics systems. All of this is complemented by water and energy recovery technologies designed to optimise every stage of the process. In addition, the system integrates automation technologies to minimise manual intervention and configurations adapted to the available space and workflow, ensuring that the entire plant operates as a single efficient system.

The key to the project lies not in each individual piece of equipment, but in their integration as a single production system, perfectly adapted to the workflow, available space and the resort’s demanding operational requirements.
Thanks to this integrated solution, PortAventura World has optimised its production processes, reducing operational effort and improving operational control. This has resulted in more agile, efficient and reliable operations, as well as a significant reduction in operating costs.

Sustainability has been a key pillar of the project. As a B Corp certified company since 2022, PortAventura World integrates sustainability into all its decisions, including its industrial laundry operations. The implemented solution incorporates technologies aimed at reducing water, energy and chemical consumption, as well as resource recovery systems. As a result, the new plant has achieved a 35% reduction in water consumption and a 25% reduction in energy consumption, while maintaining service quality at all times.

Across all industries, cultivating a diverse and inclusive workplace is increasingly recognised as valuable and essential to long-term success. However, despite the print industry’s significant advancements in technology and innovation, visible representation of women remains limited. As the sector grapples with low recruitment, it’s important to challenge outdated perceptions. Creating real change, however, requires collective effort - no single company can do it alone.

As we mark International Women’s Day on 8th March, it is an important moment not only to celebrate the achievements of women across industries, but also to reflect on the tangible actions we can take to build a more inclusive and representative future for print.

The Importance of Empowering Women in the Print Industry
So, how can we empower the women already working within the industry, and provide them with the visibility and support they need to succeed?

Studies have identified that the lack of female representation can leave female employees feeling isolated. According to the KPMG Women’s Leadership Study, over 80% of women felt encouraged to pursue leadership positions when they saw women already in those positions. Ensuring that both women and men are equally recognised is essential in transforming the face of what the print industry is. This can take many forms – from hosting seminars and talks to simply showcasing female talent on company social media platforms. In light of that, women-led organisations like Girls Who Print are also crucial in bridging these gaps. They offer mentorship, provide advice, and a sense of community that helps women navigate the unique challenges of the industry with confidence. Mentorship programmes are especially valuable, offering aspiring female professionals the chance to learn from seasoned print leaders and further their own career and skillset. 

Creating change also means looking beyond the companies themselves – to customers and collaborators. Supporting women-led initiatives and creatives is key.  Mimaki, for example, has collaborated with several inspiring female artists and designers, such as Tessa Koops, Claire Vos and Sigrid Calon. Furthermore, supporting non-profits like Tiny Miracles, which employs women from marginalised backgrounds in India by providing a steady income, helps create more opportunities for women globally.
 
Attracting Women to the Industry: Changing Perceptions
Another challenge arises in how to encourage a more diverse workplace in the first place. Print is often overlooked as a career path, unless you know of someone working within the industry, and this poses a problem in hiring diversely across the board. This is especially true for women, as print is frequently perceived as a traditional manufacturing sector, which has historically been male dominated. Such misconceptions can discourage women from seeing print as a viable or inspiring career option. 

In reality, the print industry is incredibly diverse and creative, spanning interior décor, signage, medical 3D printing prototypes and more. It’s not just about production, it’s about technology, innovation, and design. With the growing use of cutting-edge technologies like robotics and artificial intelligence, the industry now requires highly skilled employees who can operate and manage complex machinery.

To attract more women – and more diverse talent in general—it’s crucial to shift the narrative. Print is no longer just about machines and manufacturing – it’s a forward-looking, technology-driven industry where people with diverse skillsets can thrive. Rebranding the print industry as a dynamic and creative career path is essential to attracting a more diverse workforce for a more inclusive future.

At Mimaki, we believe in leading by example. Personally, I’ve been mentoring students for many years at the University of Amsterdam, with a particular focus on empowering young women as they take their first steps into the job market. This experience has given me the opportunity to highlight the diversity, creativity, and technological innovation that define today’s print industry – and to inspire more women to see themselves as part of its future. Over the years, we have also developed an internship programme that continues to grow and deliver excellent results, helping young talent gain hands-on experience and contribute new perspectives to our teams.
 
A Step in the Right Direction
While the print industry still faces challenges when it comes to female representation, the developments made in recent years are encouraging. More women are entering the field, taking on high-level positions and in general helping to shape the industry’s future. However, achieving true inclusivity and diversity will require continued effort from companies, organisations, and individuals. By supporting female talent, offering mentorship opportunities, and breaking down outdated perceptions about the industry, we can ensure that the print sector becomes a place where all employees, regardless of gender, feel valued and empowered.

Danna Drion, General Manager Marketing and Product Management at Mimaki Europe 

Process control, intelligent automation and long-term industrial reliability remain the shared priorities that continue to define members of TMAS, the Swedish textile machinery association.

“Across different stages of textile and material production, TMAS members are united by a common belief that productivity begins with stability,” says TMAS General Secretary Therese Premler-Andersson. “Rather than focusing on isolated machine functions, the emphasis is on controlling the critical variables that directly influence quality, efficiency and uptime.”

Examples of this approach will be demonstrated at Messe Frankfurt’s forthcoming Techtextil and Texprocess exhibitions taking place concurrently in Frankfurt from April 21-24.

Operational value
In weaving and related processes for example, Vandewiele Sweden AB has long-standing expertise in weft feeding and tension control. At Techtextil 2026 in Hall 12 stand C21, company experts will be on hand to explain how, through ensuring repeatable, predictable yarn delivery at ever higher loom speeds, it is enabling weaving mills to operate closer to their technical limits while maintaining fabric quality. 

The company’s continued development of data-ready weft feeders reflects a broader approach to digitalisation, embedding intelligence where it delivers clear operational value rather than adding complexity to already demanding production environments.

Quality assurance
Eltex of Sweden addresses the same challenge from a complementary angle. Its electronic yarn sensors and tension monitoring systems focus on early detection, identifying yarn breaks, end-outs or abnormal tension before they lead to waste, downtime or quality claims. From weaving and warping through to tufting, braiding, quilting and sewing, Eltex technology provides the assurance that modern automated processes depend on. As production speeds increase and manual supervision is reduced, the ability to monitor yarn behaviour in real time becomes a key enabler of stable, high-quality output.

At Techtextil 2026, Eltex will highlight its latest EyETM Multiact system for heat setting machines, guaranteeing yarn consistency throughout the entire process via individual yarn tension monitoring and control according to a predefined reference tension. 

Each channel operates independently and the system also includes a machine stop function in the event of yarn breakage or if yarn tension operates outside preset limits.

Also showcased, will be the ACT-R system for rapier weaving machines which is highly effective in achieving constant weft yarn tension for yarns based on recycled fibres at one end of the scale, and for expensive technical yarns such as Kevlar at the other.

Consistency
Further downstream, BW Converting, extends this focus on control and assurance into dyeing and finishing. 

Following the runaway success of the company’s Baldwin TexCoat G4 finishing system in the past few years, the Baldwin TexChroma digital spray dyeing system is currently being launched.

“Since its introduction, global textile finishers have embraced TexCoat and are now reaping the benefits,” says vice-president of global business development Rick Stanford. “They have been able to increase profitability, cut energy use and reduce their carbon footprint, in addition to exercising precision control with our patented precision spray technology. In the past two years we have been very active in Asia, and many of these customers have been asking for a similar technology for the dyeing process.” 

From production data to date, TexChroma can achieve savings in energy, dyes and chemicals of more than 30% compared to conventional continuous pad batch dyeing using steam, and up to 50% compared to exhaust reactive dyeing. 

It also benefits from an advanced technology enabling reactive dyestuffs and alkali fixation chemicals to be mixed just seconds before spray application, in order to completely eliminate any ‘tailing and listing’– uneven dye application or colour variations.

Eton aUPS
Meanwhile, at Texprocess, Eton Systems will outline how Industry 4.0 and AI are further boosting the capabilities of its aUPS (AI powered unit production system) technologies.

Eton Systems productivity and management system have a positive impact on the productivity of thousands of production lines for a range of industries. Designed to increase value-added time in production by eliminating manual transportation and minimising handling, the individually addressable product carriers are now fully managed and controlled by the company’s advanced software.

The UPS works perfectly for mass production but provides companies with an extra competitive edge through its ability to quickly respond to special custom- made orders - even without disrupting an ongoing larger production batch. The aUPS is developed for circular garment identification, but the ambition is also to cover quality control in future linear production.

The individually addressable product carriers of these fully automated and digitised handling solutions for finished garments, home textiles and furniture are fully managed and controlled by the latest ETONingenious™ software.

This web based real-time data collection and information system continuously accumulates, processes, and makes all production information instantly available to supervisors, quality control personnel, and management.

Precision slitting
Also at Texprocess Svegea will demonstrate its EC 200-C colarette cutter as well as an FA 350 fully automatic roll slitting machine.
 
Svegea’s colarette technology is used by knit garment manufacturers around the world for the production of tubular components such as cuff and neck tapes and other seam reinforcements.  

“In Europe, while the garment manufacturing sector is relatively limited in size, interest in these machines has increased in recent years, mainly driven by logistics, cost and lead-time considerations as production moves closer to the market,” says Svegea Managing Director Håkan Steene. “The ongoing shortage of skilled operators has also increased the demand for such automated solutions.”
 
Svegea’s fully automatic FA 350 roll slitting machine meanwhile addresses a wider range of needs for roll conversion within the technical textiles sector, combining high capacity with very low power consumption and providing extremely accurate cutting precision. Capable of cutting both knitted and woven fabrics – including those produced from a wide range of technical fibres – it can accommodate different shaft sizes and is fully electronically controlled with servo motors. The touchscreen interface has recently been redesigned and expanded with new functions, including automatic control of the knife surface speed during the cutting cycle, maintaining consistent cutting conditions as the roll diameter decreases for improved cutting quality and material handling.
 
Bespoke bias cutting systems are another speciality of the company, for specifically contoured technical textile-based components.

Essential foundation
A second theme linking all TMAS members in Frankfurt is a shared response to the economic realities facing textile manufacturers worldwide. 

“Rather than promoting automation as an abstract objective, Swedish machinery suppliers focus on tangible productivity gains that help manufacturers in high-cost regions remain competitive,” says Premler-Andersson. “Reduced waste, higher uptime and repeatable quality are the essential foundations for sustainable manufacturing. 

On Monday, February 09, Xu Hongjie signed the purchase agreement for Mayer & Cie. The Chinese entrepreneur is thereby acquiring the company’s entire circular knitting business, including its subsidiaries in Vsetín (Czech Republic) and Jintan (China).

Xu Hongjie comes from a southern Chinese entrepreneurial family that has been running the company Huixing for almost 30 years. Huixing employs around 1,000 people and develops, manufactures and sells circular knitting machines worldwide. With machines under the Mayer & Cie. brand, Huixing aims to enter the premium segment in the future. As development and manufacturing are at the core of the Mayer & Cie. brand, the Albstadt site will continue to be of strategic importance going forward.
 
“We are very pleased that a future perspective has emerged for the company and for everything we associate with it,” says Wolfgang Müller. He has worked at Mayer & Cie. for many years as Head of Sales and, over the past weeks, has worked intensively with his colleagues and Xu Hongjie on a plan for the restart of Mayer & Cie.

The new owner returns his thanks and sincere gratitude to all the employees who supported him throughout the two-month negotiation process. He highlights Wolfgang Müller and Rainer Müller in particular: “They bestowed upon me courage and wisdom, serving as the ever-shining Big Dipper in the long night.”

Restart in several phases
For the company through which he intends to implement the restart of Mayer & Cie., Xu Hongjie has initially chosen the name “Blitzstart” (Lightning Start). The young Chinese entrepreneur does not (yet) speak German, but the 32-year-old did not choose the name by chance: In the coming weeks, the new owner plans to set up a small team to boost sales again and prepare the relaunch.

All employees will need to be rehired, as today’s signing of the purchase agreement marks the dissolution of the former Mayer & Cie. GmbH & Co. KG. For Xu Hongjie, a father of two, this means there will be no Chinese New Year celebrations this year. The holiday is celebrated on 17 February and is comparable in significance to Christmas. “There is a lot to do and very little time,” he says. “We need to make sure the company survives.”

The new owner’s goal is to gradually restart production in spring. In recent days, only assembly work has continued in the facilities on the outskirts of Albstadt-Tailfingen—machines already on order are scheduled to be delivered in the coming days—while production itself has come to a halt. Employees will also need to be brought back on board for this area.

Clear objectives
With Mayer & Cie. and its premium machines for single jersey, double jersey, interlock and jacquard, the Chinese textile entrepreneur intends to continue addressing textile innovators around the world. They should find “intelligent, reliable knitting technologies at Mayer & Cie.—developed in Albstadt, powered by our employees and designed for long-term use,” explains Xu Hongjie.
A customer-centric approach is particularly important to him: “We listen, we implement and we improve—and we do it fast,” says Xu. To underline what he means, he refers to his experience at the family-owned company Huixing: “If our customers have complaints about the machine we delivered, we make it better—once, twice, three times. And we do it as quickly as possible.”

This approach is part of Huixing’s recipe for success: Over the past three decades, the Chinese circular knitting machine manufacturer has established itself worldwide, particularly in the field of mattress ticking fabrics.

Production to remain in Albstadt
Xu Hongjie’s clearly stated goal is for Mayer & Cie. to remain what it is today: a German premium brand, developed and manufactured in Germany. “People love and trust brands with tradition,” says Xu Hongjie. “We are proud of the 120-year history and the technology within this company.”

At the same time, he emphasizes how important agility is to him—especially in development and in turning customer needs into solutions. “Our customers should see us as a partner.” Internal friction, for example caused by complex structures and lengthy processes, is not an option for him. “Simplify, digitize and renew” is the guiding principle.

From competitor to sister company
Huixing, headquartered in Shishi in China’s Fujian province, has evolved from a single machinery manufacturer into a diversified industrial group with a strong global footprint. With advanced manufacturing at its core, the group operates seven large-scale production sites, covers more than 300,000 square meters of modern facilities and has expanded its activities beyond textile machinery into areas such as software development, AI applications and industrial internet services.

With the acquisition of Mayer & Cie., Xu Hongjie is bringing together two strong names in circular knitting — a 120-year-old German premium brand and a fast-growing Chinese industrial group. Xu Hongjie describes the move as a landmark step guided by his “1+1=11” philosophy: not a simple addition, but a “chemical reaction, that unlocks synergy far beyond the expected”.

“We are honored to join Mayer, a great platform, and become part of this big family,” he says, stressing that the company’s core R&D and manufacturing base will remain in Albstadt, Germany. Xu Hongjie also underlines the cultural fit between the two organizations: “The more I have gotten to know the people at Mayer & Cie., the more I have felt like being part of a family — a family that knows its values and stands up for them.” He concludes: “In Chinese, Huixing means ‘connecting stars’. That is exactly what we aim to achieve with this step.”

The new owner
Xu Hongjie, aged 32, comes from the Chinese owner family behind Huixing, a family-run circular knitting machine manufacturer founded in 1998 with around 1,000 employees. He studied Business Management in China and the United Kingdom. This cross-cultural background enables him to understand the efficiency of Chinese manufacturing while respecting the technical rigor of German industry.

He has been actively involved in the family business for more than ten years, most recently focusing on sales and international business development. In addition to his entrepreneurial role, Xu serves as Chairman of the Shishi Young Entrepreneurs Association, where he is committed to supporting and mentoring the next generation of business leaders. He is also a member of the Quanzhou Municipal People’s Congress, representing the city of Shishi.

Rieter has successfully completed the acquisition of Barmag as of February 2, 2026. This strategically important acquisition makes Rieter the world’s leading system provider for natural and synthetic fibers. 

Barmag will be consolidated as of February 2, 2026, and integrated into the Rieter Group as the “Man-Made Fiber” Division. The management of Barmag will remain with the company. Georg Stausberg will continue to lead the division and report to Thomas Oetterli, CEO of Rieter. At the same time, he will join the Group Executive Committee.

The transaction is financed by the capital increase completed in October of last year as well as by long-term bank loans. In addition to substantial cash reserves in its operating units, Rieter also has a significantly increased revolving credit facility at its disposal.

Thomas Oetterli, CEO of Rieter: “Barmag’s know-how is a perfect fit for Rieter and will accelerate profitable growth as well as strengthen our market leadership in the important region of Asia. The acquired filament know-how will help to expand our areas of expertise as a system provider and further advance automation and digitization solutions. This is the start of a successful future together and an important milestone in the implementation of our corporate strategy.”