From the Sector

Artificial intelligence has long been part of design – precise, efficient, omnipresent. At the same time, there is a growing desire for the handmade, for intuition and irregularity. It is exactly within this field of tension that the Heimtextil Trends 26/27 unfold: under the central theme of ‘Craft is a verb’, they show how high-tech, and craftsmanship are not contradictory, but open up new creative perspectives together.

Together with the founders of Alcova, Heimtextil presents a trend landscape in which craftsmanship and digital design methods merge. Tangible textures meet generative patterns, natural structures meet algorithmic precision. This does not create a contrast, but rather an interplay: where traditional craft techniques reach their limits, artificial intelligence opens up new possibilities. This gives rise to a new type of player: the techno-craftsman. He does not see digital tools as competition, but as an extension of his toolkit. Heimtextil Trends 26/27 thus address the current challenges of the creative industry: AI streamlines processes but raises questions about control and creative identity. The trends therefore focus on the lasting importance of craftsmanship – and how AI can meaningfully complement and support it. 

‘The Heimtextil Trends 26/27 illustrate how artificial intelligence will change the textile industry and, in combination with craftsmanship, opens up new perspectives. They provide the industry with impulses for sustainable production methods, innovative cooperation models and the development of future-proof business strategies,’ says Olaf Schmidt, Vice President Textiles & Textile Technologies at Messe Frankfurt.

Alcova is not just about material and aesthetic trends. Rather, the curators focus on an attitude towards the mindful use of AI in design – as a complement to human creativity and as a means of relief and inspiration. This perspective also shapes their work: ‘At Alcova, we are drawn to objects and processes that are unexpected, experimental, even a little unruly – yet somehow find their way into our homes,’ explains Valentina Ciuffi from Alcova. ‘What surrounds us each day should provoke, raise questions, and invite conversation. That's why our focus is on projects that anticipate trends rather than chase them,’ adds Joseph Grima from Alcova. 

Six key trends at a glance
Six key trends illustrate how this fusion of craftsmanship and technology is manifesting itself in concrete terms. They open up different perspectives on how AI and manual design will interact in the future.

1.    Re: media
Textiles that emerge from the interplay of digital design and handcraft: drawings are first transferred into digital renderings, then converted back into jacquards or hand-embroidered patterns. This results in works that reveal the tension between different media. Motifs inspired by glitches – broken aesthetics, pixelated colour gradients and digitally reworked hand drawings can be expected.

2.    Visible co-work
AI provides the designs, humans complete them: in these works, the boundaries between craftsmanship and code become blurred. The design is created using artificial intelligence and is completed through skilled craftsmanship. Examples include digitally embroidered linen, 3D knitted patchwork pieces and generative patterns on classic fabrics.

3.    Sensing nature
Nature is the original source of inspiration here. Its forms, rhythms and structures reveal a diversity that is waiting to be decoded. Digital tools take on the role of translators: the rough surface of the ocean is transformed into a textile grid, while the lichen patterns growing over rocks are turned into decorative motifs through algorithmic processing.

4.    A playful touch
At a time when design is characterised by functionality and optimisation, small decorative details are coming back into focus – not for practical reasons, but for pleasure. A ruffle on an otherwise minimalist curtain, a neon element on a natural-coloured linen blanket or an unexpectedly placed tassel: such gestures act as deliberate interruptions. They remind us that joy remains an essential part of design – and that textiles can also have humour.

5.    Crafted irregularity
Fabrics with knots, irregular dyeing, visible seams and asymmetrical finishes take centre stage. These materials do not hide the craftsmanship but emphasise it – as a conscious counterpoint to the flawless perfection of AI-assisted design.

6.    The uncanny valley
Technical elements such as wires, connections and coils are no longer hidden but deliberately displayed and showcased. They appear as visible details and draw the eye to the inner workings of the machine, rather than its flawless surface. This results in designs that reveal what is hidden – and, with their playful expression, unfold something strange, almost alien.

The colour palette of Heimtextil Trends 26/27
The colour palette ranges from down-to-earth tones to digital irritation: shades such as sand, clay, soot, olive and tree bark convey stability, materiality and connection. However, this natural calm is deliberately disrupted by sharp, synthetic accents such as acidic green, digital lilac and bright screen blue. These ‘glitches’ create tension and turn the colour scheme into a vibrant statement.

From 13 to 16 January 2026, the Heimtextil Trends 26/27 will be presented in an interactive format in the Trend Arena in Hall 6.1.

The 13^th edition of Gartex Texprocess India opened on a high note at the Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan - New Delhi. The landmark event is being held between the 21^st -23^rd August 2025. Organized by Messe Frankfurt Trade Fairs India Pvt Ltd and MEX Exhibitions Pvt Ltd, the exhibition is bound to set a new benchmark in the garment, textile manufacturing and denim industry. This 13^th edition of the Gartex Texprocess India features two new additions - the LeatherX Pavilion and the Textile Care Forum which makes the event more holistic and all-encompassing.

The Gartex Texprocess India 2025 has a record participation from over 200 exhibitors (35% first-time exhibitors) and 600+ brands from India and with international brands like Durst, Morimota Singapore (Kansai), Epson, Morgan, Jinjen, Groz Beckert, Brothers International, Jack Franc, Veolia, Amazon and more recording international participation from China, Japan, Italy, Germany and Singapore. The first day of the exhibition saw a high-level of engagement and was marked with vigorous activities across all stalls.  

Inaugurating the show, Chief Guest, Shri Manohar Lal Khattar expressed: “The textile industry is one of the largest sources of employment generation in the country with over 45 million people employed directly, including a large number of women and rural population. The government has taken a number of measures/ incentives to boost the textile sector and generate employment in the country. I give due credit to the two joint organisers for doing a great job of amalgamating the complete value chain from yarn to finished products here in Delhi.” 

Speaking on energy, Shri Khattar added: “Coming to power, we have extended several schemes, including subsidies up to 75%. Today, we are looking at the transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy. I urge you all to kindly upgrade your plants to renewable energy, as India is moving towards its Mission 2047 to reduce emissions. India had set a target to replace 50% of the energy by 2030 with renewable and clean sources but has managed to achieve the same this year.”

He was followed by the address from the Guest of Honour: Shri Rakesh Sachan, Hon’ble Minister, Department of MSME, Khadi, Village Industries, Sericulture and Textile, Government of Uttar Pradesh. He expressed: “The Indian textile industry is yet to produce indigenous machinery. It relies mostly on imports. The Government of Uttar Pradesh is taking efforts to allow industries to excel with special dedicated land parcels in the state. We had requested about 200 acres of land for the development of industries. Of these, we have received approval of about 100 acres. In another development, the Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA) is developing a 150-acre apparel cluster in Noida, which will be Uttar Pradesh's first textile park. The project aims to attract investment, generate employment, and boost exports in the apparel sector.”
Speaking on the US tariffs, Shri Sachan said: “The surge in US tariffs has hit hard, but this is the time to upgrade and create capacity, improve on indigenous technology.”

The expo was inaugurated by Chief Guest Shri Manohar Lal Khattar, Hon’ble Minister of Housing & Urban Affairs, India, Minister of Power, Government of India. 

The opening day saw amazing enthusiasm among both exhibitors and visitors. It was witness to many impactful discussions among stakeholders, putting India in the global textile eco-space. The highlights of The Gartex Texprocess India 2025 are ‘The Denim Show’ in association with the Denim Manufacturers Association and the featured zones of the Fabrics and Trims Show, Screen Print India (Textile) and the latest addition of LeatherX Pavilion and launch of the Textile Care Forum in association with the Drycleaners and Launderers Association of India enhance the platform by connecting the industry. The new developments add value to the already composite nature of Gartex Texprocess India. With a focus on technology and modernisation, the exhibition is a step forward towards setting global standards in textile manufacturing, denim, leather goods, laundry management and the overall fashion industry. 

Going beyond the comprehensive showcase of the home furnishing sector, Asia’s leading home textile fair’s fringe programme will continue to be an integral part of the three-day event, but featuring a distinct and more sector-driven redesign. Ranging from forums and seminars to panel discussions and product launches, the focus will centre on four key themes: NextGen, Palette, Connector, and Go-Green. From 20 – 22 August 2025 at the National Exhibition and Convention Center in Shanghai, the fair is set to promote collaboration and innovation among diverse industry experts, drive sustainable development, and engage attendees through interactive sessions for practical application.

The refreshed fringe programme’s four focal themes will explore various aspects of the industry, highlighting new perspectives and insights that will shape the future of home textiles. 

NextGen: the future of interior textiles
Circular textile advocate Ms Anja Bisgaard Gaede will lead discussions in the Future & Textile Zone, where participants can discover future-focused materials, AI-powered design tools, and engaging interactions. Four attractions within this zone include:

• Future of Textiles: curated selection of 20+ sustainable, regenerative, circular, or bio-based textiles – spanning from bioengineering to waste-derived materials for interiors.
• Try It Yourself: attendees can enjoy hands-on previews of home textile products brought by Ms Anja Bisgaard Gaede. 
• AI Demos: AI innovators will share how to boost efficiency by auto-generating patterns, optimising fabric production, and cutting time and costs.
• Textile Hunt: participants can join the Textile Hunt game to uncover the future of textiles in the zone and win prizes.

Palette: emphasising creativity and trendsetting in home textiles
Through seminars and guided tours, both Western and Eastern designers will share their extensive industry experience. Attendees can engage closely with international design masters, gaining insights into textile applications and effective selection of home textile products. Notable professionals include Ms Camilla Rudnicki, a renowned Danish interior designer focused on creating joy and warmth in homes through unique interior solutions, and Mr Akiyuki Sasaki, a Japanese designer known for simple yet meaningful designs that enhance daily life, incorporating cultural elements from Japan and beyond.

Connector: fostering business growth and closer cooperation across the industry
This theme aims to strengthen global partnerships through strategic insights from industry leaders in Colombia, Uzbekistan, and Vietnam. Key speakers include Mr Juan Fernando Loaiza (Economic & Business Model Researcher in Fashion of Inexmoda, Colombia), Mr Shokhrukh Kayumov (Founder & CEO of TextileFinds.com, Uzbekistan) and Ms Vivie Wei (Country Director of Dezan Shira & Associates, Vietnam) respectively, who will equip investors, manufacturers and business partners with critical market knowledge and practical guidance for successfully engaging with the home textiles sector. 

Additionally, the Home Textiles x Interior Decoration: Summit on Industry Reshaping and Advancement will unite leaders from home textile brands, interior design experts, and institutions to discuss industry upgrade prospects, offering visitors insights into category innovation, opportunities in aging-adaptation renovations and Gen Z consumer demands, while guest speakers will also share practical expertise to help industry players gain a competitive edge in the evolving market.

Go-Green: the sector’s latest sustainability trends
A panel discussion featuring sustainability experts will explore diverse aspects of sustainability in home textiles. Professor Yuen from the Hong Kong Polytechnic University will lead the discussion on business models, industry trends and branding. Forums will also be held to provide in-depth presentations by key exhibitors, including Patternsfrom Agency (Finland), who will present Greening the Home Textile Industry: Drivers and Manufacturer Strategies, and Fu-tex (Hong Kong) Co Limited will discuss Physical Weaving: Leading the Total Blackout Innovation.

Other events include Designer's Style: the 31st Intertextile Home Textile Design Carnival and Designer’s Pick Award Ceremony, and From Cross-Boundary to Boundless: The 11th Home Furniture & Textile Top Business Matching, and 2026 / 27 China Home Textile Trend Area. 

Intertextile Shanghai Home Textiles – Autumn Edition is organised by Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd; the Sub-Council of Textile Industry, CCPIT; and the China Home Textile Association (CHTA).

From decorative and furniture fabrics to wallpaper, flooring and carpets, to mattresses, bed linen and table linen – Heimtextil brings together a diverse product range for holistic interior design from 13 to 16 January 2026. Interior designers and buyers from the hospitality and retail sectors find the latest textile and non-textile material innovations under one roof. Leading brands and promising newcomers have already announced their participation. 

Textile interior design solutions include wallpaper, sun protection systems, furniture fabrics, flooring, bed and table linen, mattresses, bathroom and decorative textiles, and much more. Interior designers, architects, retail and hospitality buyers are looking for the full range.
"The international market has changed. Architects, interior designers and buyers are looking for a complete range of products in one place. With the broad offering at Heimtextil and the addition of non-textile floor coverings, we are providing exactly that. We offer a range spanning from functional furniture fabrics to wallpaper, flooring and finished products. The new hall layout ensures an even more structured visitor experience," says Bettina Bär, Director Heimtextil, Messe Frankfurt.

Interior design concepts
Hall 3.0 brings together wallpaper, carpets, curtains and sun protection systems to present interior design concepts clearly structured for professionals. Key players include Forest Group (Netherlands), Höpke (Germany), Ifi Aebe (Greece), Linder (France), Marburger Tapetenfabrik (Germany), Paulig Teppichweberei (Germany), Sarlas (Greece), Tanriverdi (Turkey), The Wallfashion House (Belgium) and York Wallcoverings (USA), presenting their latest collections. In addition, the DecoTeam and its members showcase holistic, inspiring interior design concepts with joint brand presentations – complemented by the Design Lounge powered by DecoTeam. A new installation by Patricia Urquiola also brings integrated interior design to life at the highest design level.

The largest offering in furniture and decorative fabrics
Whether outdoor fabrics, imitation leather or fibres and yarns for contract business – functionality and design are the focus and continue to evolve year after year. In Halls 3.1 and 4.1, international exhibitors present the world's largest offering of weavers for furniture and decorative fabrics. One focus in Hall 3.1 is on contract fabrics, leather and imitation leather, and fibres and yarns for furniture and decorative fabrics. Indorama Ventures Fibers Germany, Manifattura Filtes, Novartiplast and Martinelli Ginetto from Italy are among the many suppliers showcasing their latest products here. Hall 4.1 brings together high-quality decorative, furniture and contract fabrics. Among the many manufacturers exhibiting here are Edmund Bell (Great Britain), Manuel Revert (Spain), Vanelli Tekstil (Turkey) and Vescom Velvets BV (Netherlands).

Carpets & Rugs grows and expands to include flooring
Heimtextil’s carpet segment continues to grow. Halls 11.0, 11.1 and 12.0 focus on hand- and machine-woven carpets, unique pieces and doormats. For the first time, non-textile floorings extend the range with the new Flooring & Equipment product segment. Heimtextil thus brings together holistic textile and non-textile interior design in one place. Contract furnishers and buyers benefit from a broad selection of complementary offerings with one visit. Registered exhibitors include Heritage Overseas (India), Oriental Weavers Carpets Factory (Egypt), Ragolle Rugs (Belgium) and Universal XXI (Spain). Floor coverings are included in the portfolios of Chene de L'est (France), Welspun UK and Zipse (Germany), among others.

Functional finished products for hospitality
Anyone looking for finished products for contract furnishing and hospitality find what they need in Halls 5.0, 5.1, 6.0 and 6.1 within the Bed, Bath & Living segment. Here, exhibitors present bed linen, bathroom textiles, table linen, blankets and home accessories. The strong and international range of brands and private labels offers high quality, short delivery times and flexible order quantities. Participants include Formesse (Germany), Hermann Biederlack (Germany), Lameirinho - Indústria Textil (Portugal), Marzotto Lab (Italy), Mundotextil - Industrias Texteis (Portugal), Veritas Tekstil (Turkey) and many others. Bedding, duvets, pillows, and mattresses are featured in the Smart Bedding section in Hall 4.0. Badenia Bettcomfort (Germany), Boyteks Tekstil (Turkey), f.a.n. Frankenstolz Schlafkomfort H. Neumeyer (Germany), Hefel Textil (Austria), OBB Oberbadische Bettfedernfabrik (Germany), Proneem (France) and many other exhibitors present state-of-the-art sleep solutions there.

A journey into Warli’s world, timeless and multifaceted: ‘La lune sous le chapeau’, designed by Man Ray and the Dots indoor rug program, by Paolo Zani evoke the simplicity of design.

In an exciting fusion of art and design, Warli’s latest collection embarks on a journey that celebrates essentiality as a core aesthetic and design value. This philosophy shines through in two key offerings: ‘La lune sous le chapeau’, a lamp designed by Man Ray, and the Dots indoor rug program by Paolo Zani. Both pieces, while distinct in their origins and expressions, are united by a shared pursuit of authenticity and lightness of form, embodying a vision where formal simplicity, rich materiality, and artisanal craftsmanship converge.

Dots, indoor rug program – designed by Paolo Zani
For years, Dots has been a bestseller in Warli’s indoor collections, lauded for its versatility and customization that make it a seamless fit for top hospitality and residential projects. In 2025, Dots evolves from a single product into a comprehensive work program. This expansion allows for unparalleled customization through the combination of 10 weft colors and 10 warp colors, ensuring that every project’s unique requirements can be met. Hand-woven from a blend of wool and tencel, Dots creates a soft, continuous surface, finely crafted with twisted wool elements. The distinctive dotted pattern in various color shades is achieved through a specialized dyeing and twisting technique applied to the wool.

‘La lune sous le chapeau’ – designed by Man Ray
‘La lune sous le chapeau’ is an ‘objet trouvé’ in its essence, re-evaluating simple materials, low technology, and formal simplicity. The lampshade was conceived by Man Ray in 1974 on a flat sheet of cardboard, and quickly, along with sketches for the base, evolved into the iconic lamp we know today. This piece, seemingly anonymous and anti-design, is provocatively poetic, featuring the most minimal of lampshades supported by the most elementary of bases. This re-edition faithfully reproduces the original design, not just in form but also in spirit.

Lower costs, less energy intensive, and with zero waste water, the new QuantumCOLOUR™ process is set to revolutionize wool textile colouring: Woolmark, the global authority on wool, has teamed up with COLOURizd™, pioneers in dry textile colouring processes, to introduce a revolutionary new method to colour wool and wool blends. 

QuantumCOLOUR™ is a cutting-edge yarn colouring process that significantly reduces resource consumption and costs. Using just 0.5L of water per kilogram of yarn, this technology eliminates the need for bleaching, pre-treatment and wastewater discharge. This makes the COLOURizd™ QuantumCOLOUR™ a reduced resource-intense colouration process, where only the wetting agent and pigment binder system are required.

“After extensive testing on Merino wool and wool blends, we realized the team at COLOURizd™ is on to something truly revolutionary for the wool industry,” said Woolmark General Manager Processing Innovation & Education Extension Julie Davies. “The QuantumCOLOUR™ process provides durable solutions, creating faded to saturated tonal depths of colour for wool and wool blends. And since it uses very little water, suppliers can choose to colour wool and wool blend yarns without the need for wastewater processing infrastructure.”

Traditional dyeing requires a variety of chemicals, including caustic soda, acids, bleach, and salts, all washed in with between 60 and 120 liters of water per kilogram of yarn. The COLOURizd™ method uses none of these chemicals, instead utilising a bluesign® certified pigment and binder injected into a yarn fibre bundle. The result is a process that allows for a range of colours and supple textures.

“Woolmark represents the gold standard within the wool industry and they will be instrumental in helping to offer our lower impact, higher performance process to new markets,” said COLOURizd™ CEO Jennifer Thompson. “Our current clients include Kontoor Brands (Wrangler and Lee), Cone Denim, and GANT, and working with Woolmark will allow us to reach an entirely new market, bringing sustainability and performance solutions to wool manufacturers around the globe.”

Successfully validated on 100% Merino wool, as well as blends with cotton, TENCEL™ and nylon, on a range of yarn counts from 30/2NM to 80/1NM, the COLOURizd™ QuantumCOLOUR™ pigment process meets all standards for colourfastness and durability. Assessed through authorised laboratory partners, Woolmark testing was carried out on yarns, fabrics and garments, showing the technology delivers consistent colour performance and long-lasting wear.

Woolmark and COLOURizd™ will introduce this new technology during Pitti Immagine Filati.

Modern Meadow, a U.S.-based leader in bio-design, has chosen Menabò Group as its partner for the development of the INNOVERA™ brand and the development of its global communication strategy. 
 
With over forty years of experience in integrated communication, the Italian agency led every phase of the project, from the creation of the visual identity and brand payoff to the definition of strategic positioning. Menabò also oversaw the concept, design, and content of the dedicated website; supported brand communications across online and offline touchpoints; assisted during major international trade events; and developed media relations assets for global outreach. 

INNOVERA™, previously known as BIO-VERA®, is crafted using plant-based proteins, biopolymers and recycled rubber, achieving more than 80% renewable carbon content. Completely animal-free, INNOVERA™ replicates the look and feel of collagen found in leather, yet it is lightweight, twice as strong as traditional leather, and available in various colors, haptics and finishes. 
 
INNOVERA™ is not presented as an outright alternative to animal leather, but as a lowimpact, high-performance option that tanneries and brands can offer their customers across fashion, footwear, the automotive industry, and interior design, while upholding the highest standards in aesthetics and quality. 
 
The official debut of INNOVERA™ took place at the Global Fashion Summit in Copenhagen, the premier international event for sustainable innovation in fashion, held from June 3 to 5. Alongside the product showcase, Modern Meadow contributed to the summit dialogue with the participation of its CEO David Williamson, PhD, in the panel discussion “Bio-Design Futures,” which explored the future of bio-design and the role of renewable materials. 
 
In an environment where sustainability communication demands transparency and credibility, Menabò Group shaped a storytelling approach that highlights INNOVERA™’s tangible benefits and performance qualities. With this project, the agency reinforces its international presence as a trusted partner for brands driving innovation and sustainability on a global scale. 

Heimtextil, the leading international trade fair for home and contract textiles and textile design, is strategically expanding the Smart Bedding segment. A new exhibitor area will be created for the January 2026 edition: Sleep & Meet. This new format will take up around a quarter of Hall 4.0. Numerous well-known brands from the mattress sector have already registered to take part. With a clear structure and a high-quality environment, Sleep & Meet offers bedding retailers, hospitality and volume buyers direct access to relevant companies and industry participants, new product range perspectives and valuable business contacts.

Numerous strong German brands from the mattress sector will be exhibiting at Heimtextil 2026. Well-known companies such as Auping Germany, Bettwaren Stendebach, Erich Werkmeister, ergomed, Femira, Rummel and Schwarzwald Schlafsysteme are celebrating their premiere at Heimtextil 2026 and have already registered. The EuroComfort Group with Badenia, Brinkhaus, Lück and fan frankenstolz are significantly expanding their space at Heimtextil 2026.

Trade association Matratzen-Industrie e.V. will be present again
The trade association Matratzen-Industrie is also sending out a strong signal: the association will once again have its own stand at Heimtextil 2026. ‘Heimtextil offers the ideal platform to showcase the innovative strength and diversity of German mattress manufacturers internationally’, explains Martin Auerbach, Managing Director of the trade association Matratzen-Industrie.

Fueled by robust demand, the fair wrapped up successfully on 13 March at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai). Over 370 exhibitors engaged with more than 25,000 visitors from 85 countries and regions, with total visitor numbers up by 8%, and the number of international visitors more than double that of the previous Spring Edition. As consumer preferences continue to evolve, buyers increasingly sought home products that harmoniously blend style, comfort and sustainability. This trend was evident throughout Hall 5.2, highlighted by the extensive mix of exhibitors and the accompanying fringe program focused on eco-innovation and smart sleep, reinforcing the fair as an important business platform for the advancing industry.

Speaking on the final day, Ms Wilmet Shea, General Manager of Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd, said: “The visitor flow throughout the hall clearly demonstrated the strong demand and recovery within the Chinese home textile market, with many exhibitors reporting high-quality leads. Notably, there was a significant increase in overseas visitors, highlighting the event's growing international appeal. We observed various trends, but prominent themes were sustainability and smart bedding solutions, as more exhibitors are increasingly incorporating technology and eco-friendly practices into their materials and production processes. Overall, the comprehensive selection of products catered to the varied interests of buyers across the industry.”

Eco-consciousness has evolved from being just a nice-to-have to becoming an essential aspect in the home textiles market. In the bedding sector, this has led to a growing emphasis on organic, reusable, and recyclable materials that are free from hazardous chemicals. Throughout the three-day fair, the fairground was abuzz with products that offered both comfort and environmental responsibility.

From smart bedding, featuring temperature regulation and antibacterial technologies, to sustainable home textiles using biodegradable and organic materials, exhibitors showcased a diverse collection of solutions designed to elevate the modern home. Particularly notable was CoolisT Life Technology Co Ltd, which displayed bio-based biodegradable sponges, including Zero Foam and Hydrophilic Foam. Renowned buying brands, including Sainsbury’s, Americana International, Li & Fung, and many more, proactively pursued technological innovations, sustainable solutions, and high-end products to better meet the demands of consumers.

The fringe programme also played a key role in driving industry dialogue around eco-consciousness and innovation. The Green and Low Carbon Forum explored sustainable textiles for bedrooms and homes, while the Sleeping Aid Summit 2025 discussed the integration of smart home technologies into bedding. Another event in the spotlight was Timeless and Transformative Colour: Celebrating the Rich Diversity of Modern Living for 2026, held by the Pantone Color Institute. At this event, participants discovered the vibrant colour palettes for home interiors that are expected to be popular trends in 2026.

Curtains will open next week for Intertextile Shanghai Home Textiles – Spring Edition 2025, taking place from 11 – 13 March, and offering the home and contract sectors a comprehensive selection of products with a strong emphasis on smart bedding and sustainability. Alongside innovative fringe events, over 350 exhibitors from four countries and regions are ready to convene in Hall 5.2 at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai) to showcase an impressive range of products, including bedding, duvets, pillows, towelling, carpets, rugs, and more.

Intertextile Shanghai Home Textiles – Spring Edition 2025 will be held concurrently with Intertextile Shanghai Apparel Fabrics – Spring Edition, Yarn Expo Spring, CHIC and PH Value at the National Exhibition and Convention Center. The fair is organised by Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd; the Sub-Council of Textile Industry, CCPIT; and the China Home Textile Association (CHTA).

Key exhibitors to display extensive range of home textile advancements
Throughout the show floor, various exhibitors will showcase their innovations across the sector, including:

• 3M China Limited (USA) – as one of the first thermal material brands to emphasise thinness, its product 3M™ Thinsulate™ is an insulating fabric made from a blend of synthetic fibres, including polyester. Its fibres have a diameter of around 2 – 5 micrometres, making it much smaller than the other synthetic fibres used for insulation.
• CoolisT Life Technology Co Ltd (China)  – CoolisT Group specialises in bio-based biodegradable sponges, including bio-based Zero Foam and Hydrophilic Foam. Utilising advanced technology, its products are certified by USDA, OK bio-based, and TÜV AUSTRIA.
• Changzhou Huaji Wool Co Ltd (China) – the company produces wool and linen raw materials, with proprietary patented equipment and technology for shrink-resistant wool and wool strips. Its innovative wool products have received OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100 and RWS Responsible Wool certifications.
• Fujian Anran Textile Technology Co Ltd (China) – holding over 50 patents and multiple certifications, it specialises in 3D spacer materials, fabrics, and various products.
• Jiangyin Hongliu Bedsheet Co Ltd (China) – the company’s bedding set is crafted from high-quality nylon and spandex, offering a soft and comfortable texture. It features moisture-wicking and quick-drying properties while maintaining an elegant appearance.
• Shinwon Felt (Korea) – utilising a needle punching technique, the company regenerates plastic waste into felt products. Its sustainable product lines, certified by GRS, contribute significantly to addressing plastic waste issues.
• Tela's Design (Portugal) – a design studio specialising in home textile designs and decorations. Its core principles – colour, design, and detail – have established Tela as one of the leading and most successful textile design firms globally.

Uncovering trends driving change in home textiles
In addition to a robust lineup of exhibitors, Intertextile Shanghai Home Textiles will host various fringe events to keep attendees informed about emerging developments, trends, and key insights, including:

• Timeless and Transformative Colour Celebrating the Rich Diversity of Modern Living for 2026: held by Pantone Color Institute, participants can experiment with various styles, from industrial to rustic, and explore the vibrant colour palettes for home interiors in 2026.
• Sleeping Aid Summit 2025: one of the most vital yet often overlooked aspects of wellness is achieving quality sleep. At the summit, sleep technology will once again take centre stage, providing in-depth insights into sleep quality and exploring related business opportunities.
• Green and Low Carbon Forum: a growing number of individuals are opting for natural materials and sustainable textiles in their bedrooms and homes. The forum will highlight sustainability and the future direction of the industry.