From the Sector

Leading Japanese computerized flat knitting technologist SHIMA SEIKI MFG., LTD. of Wakayama, Japan, together with its sales representative in Saudi Arabia Star Sewing Machines Trading L.L.C., will participate in the upcoming 21st International Expo for Textile, Garment, Printing, Yarn and Fabric Machinery, Technology and Innovations (Saudi Stitch & Tex 2025) to be held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia this month.

SHIMA SEIKI will be exhibiting at Saudi Stitch & Tex for the first time with a lineup of knitting machines and design software.

SWG®091N2
SHIMA SEIKI’s SWG®091N2 compact WHOLEGARMENT® knitting machine can produce a wide range of WHOLEGARMENT® items in their entirety without the need for linking or sewing. The SWG®-N2 series “Mini” range is suited to the production of small knit items and accessories such as gloves, socks, hats and scarves as well as pet wear, cozies, shoe uppers, bags, card cases, glasses cases, smartphone covers and other personal items, as well as functional items such as for sports and medical applications. At Saudi Stitch & Tex SWG®091N2 will be shown in 15 gauge.

N.SSR®112
N.SSR®112 is a computerized flat knitting machine that offers leading technology in an economical yet reliable package. Featuring industry-leading innovations such as the R2CARRIAGE® that yields quicker carriage returns for greater efficiency, spring-type moveable sinker system, DSCS® Digital Stitch Control System, stitch presser and takedown comb, Made-in-Japan quality, reliability and productivity, as well as user-friendliness and cost-performance combine to satisfy the high expectations of the world’s fashion industry. Shown in 12 gauge at Saudi Stitch & Tex, N.SSR®112 is even capable of WideGauge® knitting whereby a number of different gauges can be knit into a single garment.

SDS® KnitPaint-Online
KnitPaint is proven software used by knitting companies across the globe to create knitting data for programming SHIMA SEIKI computerized flat knitting machines. Previously available only as part of SHIMA SEIKI's SDS®-ONE APEX series all-in-one design system, with SDS® KnitPaint-Online, KnitPaint software becomes available as standalone software that carries over the same familiar KnitPaint functions, but enhanced with basic planning and design functionality as well.

APEXFiz®
SHIMA SEIKI’s APEXFiz® subscription-based design software supports the creative side of fashion from planning and design to colorway evaluation, realistic fabric simulation and 3D virtual sampling. Virtual samples are a digitized version of sample making that are visually accurate enough to be used effectively as prototypes, replacing physical sampling and consequently reducing time, cost and material that otherwise go to waste. When a design is approved for production, knitting data which is automatically generated can be converted easily to machine data, allowing smooth communication for digitally bridging the gap between design studio and factory. Before going to production however, the same virtual sample can be used in retail, for example in e-commerce, to gauge consumer response to items before going to market, effectively realizing production based on demand forecasting. In such a way, inventory can be optimized to minimize deadstock waste. APEXFiz® therefore helps to realize sustainability while digitally transforming the fashion supply chain.

Source Fashion, the UK’s leading responsible sourcing show, returns to Olympia London from 13 -15 January 2026, introducing Fashion Deconstructed, an immersive, hands-on feature designed to give buyers and visitors an unprecedented look behind the scenes of fashion production. From upcycling and denim workshops to live factory production line and expert repair sessions, attendees will have the chance to explore the craft, quality, and construction that define great fashion. Whether it’s learning how to create a high-end garment in an hour or understanding the properties of premium fabrics, Fashion Deconstructed brings the making of fashion to life, offering practical insights and interactive experiences with some of the industry’s top experts.

Attendees can take part in a variety of hands-on workshops led by some of the industry’s most respected names. Stuart Trevor, Fashion Designer and Founder of All Saints, will host upcycling sessions, while Ross Barry Founder of Reskinned will deconstruct denim to reveal its fibres and fabric properties. A mini production line, brought to life in partnership with Apparel TASKER, the innovative East London-based garment development and sustainable production unit, will showcase machinists creating garments in real time, demonstrating both volume production and the techniques needed to construct high-quality pieces efficiently. 

Additional workshops will teach participants how to produce multiple T-shirts in an hour and explore high-end construction with small teams. Leather repair sessions and practical demonstrations will be running throughout the show, offering plenty of opportunities for visitors to learn, experiment, and network with peers and industry experts. With a lively, interactive atmosphere, Fashion Deconstructed promises not just insight, but a chance to connect, share ideas, and have fun while exploring what makes fashion truly well-made.

Suzanne Ellingham, Director of Source Fashion says, “Fashion Deconstructed is about showing what good looks like in the most practical way. It’s also about showing how human fashion still is.  We want visitors to see and understand the skill, care, and craft that go into every garment, experiment with techniques, and connect with the people behind the industry. It’s hands-on, it’s interactive, and it’s fun."

106 brands, 16 locations, more than 70 events and around 10,000 registered visitors: interior design days cologne celebrated its premiere from 26 to 29 October 2025. The new, decentralised format brought interior design right into the city and combined brand presentations with inspiring talks, curated tours and a variety of networking highlights. The positive feedback from exhibitors and the public shows: idd cologne became the stage for exclusive interior design concepts in the residential, hospitality and contract business segments and transformed Cologne into a lively meeting point of the interiors community. 

"Urban-only": interior design staged in a new way 
With its "urban-only" concept, idd cologne relied on a new form of brand staging: the creative collections, interior design ideas and design trends were presented at authentic and architecturally special locations throughout the Cologne urban area. 

Central venues were the Design Post Köln – an official Koelnmesse cooperation partner as of this year –, the listed monument Stoff-Pavillon Moeller and the machwerkhaus köln, a centre for design and urban production. The concept was supplemented by numerous showrooms, creative locations, flagship stores and pop-up formats of the local design scene. In total, 106 brands from the premium range joined at 16 locations to form a unique city tour through the diverse world of interiors – from classic living through hospitality to contract solutions. Embedded in the architecture and atmosphere of Cologne, a total experience arose that presented interior design there where people live, work and design. 

Event highlights of the premiere 
The event programme of idd cologne was distinguished by depth of content and a high level of experience quality. In total, the event offered more than 70 events that combined design, architecture and urban life in an inspiring way. The spectrum extended from lectures and panel talks to sociable networking formats – the spirit of idd cologne was tangible throughout the city. 

The Urban Design Walks proved to be real crowd-pullers. The six tours led to central venues of idd cologne and made it possible to directly experience current design trends. In the Architonic Talks, leading minds from architecture and design provided forward-looking insights into themes like longevity, emotional spatial impact, brand identity and material properties. Also a special highlight was the idd cologne Aperitivo in the Stoff-Pavillon Moeller, which promoted an exchange and networking within the design community in a relaxed atmosphere. 

The future of idd cologne 
idd cologne 2025 was an important step in the continuing development of the trade fair portfolio in the furniture and interior design segment of the Cologne location. With the change to the urban format, idd cologne implemented important impulses and wishes of the industry. At the same time, it became evident how dynamic the current market situation is: forms of use, target groups and expectations are changing rapidly and call for flexible trade fair concepts. In a close exchange with the furniture industry, experience values, feedback and perspectives will now be evaluated by partners, exhibitors and visitors. Taking other market and economic situation development factors into account, this provides the foundation for the continuing development of idd cologne in future.  

idd cologne in figures 
A total of 106 premium brands participated in idd cologne 2025 at 16 locations throughout the Cologne urban area. More than 70 individual events took place. According to the figures for registrations, including the last day of the fair, around 10,000 visitors registered for interior design days cologne. 

Over 100 Italian companies are exhibiting at ITMA ASIA + CITME Singapore 2025, taking place from October 28 to 31. With an area of around 4,000 square meters, Italy ranks among the top exhibiting Countries, as in previous editions. 53 Italian exhibitors will show their innovations within the National Sector Groups, organized by ACIMIT (Association of Italian Textile Machinery Manufacturers) and Italian Trade Agency.

ITMA ASIA + CITME show has always been the main showcase for textile machinery manufacturers in Asia, which absorbs 50% of global exports for a value of 8.8 billion euro in 2024. The main world market for textile machinery are China and India, importing textile machines for a total value of 4.3 billion euro.

For Italian manufacturers as well, the Asian market is the top foreign destination. In 2024, Italian exports to Asia amounted to 664 million euro, while in the first six months of 2025 Italian sales to this geographical area grew at 1% rate on the same 2024 period, reaching a value of 317 million euro. China, India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh are the main Asian destinations for Made in Italy machinery.

ACIMIT President Marco Salvadè says: “ITMA ASIA+CITME Singapore is a further occasion for Italian textile machinery manufacturers to display its updated technological supply. The choice of Singapore allows Italian exhibitors to engage with many Southeast Asian markets, which are becoming increasingly important manufacturing hubs.”

"Despite geopolitical uncertainties, the significant presence of Italian exhibitors in Singapore confirms the vitality of the Italian textile machinery sector. " confirms Salvadè. " Italian manufacturers at ITMA ASIA+CITME Singapore will show a wide range of advanced solutions, covering the entire textile value chain. Visitors will see digitalization tools that can improve process efficiency and connectivity, automation systems for smarter production and innovations able to reduce environmental impact. In addition, there will be a strong focus on sustainable technologies, with machinery designed to optimize energy and water use, while ensuring high - quality results. Italian manufacturers are committed to combining tradition in textile knowledge with cutting - edge innovation."

On his side, Giorgio Calveri, Director of ITA Singapore, states: "With 8 6 % of its 2.1-billion-euro production exported, Italy’s textile machinery industry confirms its strong international orientation, with Asia as its main market. ITMA Asia + CITME 2025 in Singapore is a strategic opportunity to strengthen Italy’s presence in this key region. With 100 exhibitors coordinated by ACIMIT and supported by ITA, Italy stands as a trusted partner for advanced, sustainable, and competitive technologies."

The Uster 360Q universe is growing with new products, solutions and services. Innovation developments can also be recorded in the fields of man-made fiber testing and fabric inspection. Uster innovations address the industry’s trending topics as mill management and process control, optimization of delivered fabric quality and yield.

The simplicity of fabric quality control
Uster presents at ITMA Asia + CITME 2025 the brand-new Uster Fabriq Vision 2. The next generation fabric inspection system stands for reliable performance – also in challenging environments – and shows enhanced detection capabilities. Both advantages result from the Smart Vision Camera 3 for high-performance in-camera image processing. Uster’s real-time process monitoring and quality inspection solution further convinces by simplified operation through Uster Intelligence-supported style creations as well as by image-based and supported visual setting adjustment for easier adaption. 

Fabric producers need to ensure a consistently high rate of defect detection by automated control during final inspection. Uster Fabriq Vision 2 offers advanced process safety through the Super Inspection Mode for increased security, even after production, and consistent Uster Intelligence-supported quality decisions. The system’s ability finally allows fabric yield to be optimized and prevents claims – quickly set up and easy handled when fine tuning.

Fiber process control for cotton, synthetics and blends
Uster AFIS 6 has been launched earlier this year but will be presented at ITMA Asia + CITME in Singapore first time to an audience in Asia. The next-generation AFIS stands out by uniquely testing man-made fiber properties in addition to cotton in the same unit. It provides critical data to optimize fiber process control in spinning, paving the way for superior yarn quality and reduced waste.

AFIS 6 can be seamlessly integrated in the mills quality management regime by connecting to Uster Quality Expert and the integration of the Uster Statistics. The enhanced user experience result from the new user interface and its various languages available is a key highlight. Another plus is simplified data analysis through the integral reporting functionality. 

Presented for the first time two years ago at ITMA in Milan, Uster 360Q has attracted considerable interest, and FiberQ has proven itself in practice as a raw material management solution with profit potential. Under 360Q Uster developed a further solution and tools.

Uster Fiber2Yarn for the great picture
Newly combining and correlating data of FiberQ – measured with Uster HVI – with data from Uster Quantum yarn clearers, spinners can learn about the influence of different raw material parameters on the end product quality. This highly sought-after information offers a great opportunity to optimize mixings and continuously achieve a higher level of quality consistency besides better control of the production process. The Uster Fiber2Yarn solution is available in two different views, like the correlations over time and the correlations over different mixings.

A wide range of valuable features and information can be found on the Uster 360Q Platform. Uster services are hosted on the cloud-based platform with a technology architecture that makes businesses more agile and cost-effective. Additionally, the cloud solutions enable businesses to leverage AI and machine learning capabilities. The integration of Uster Intelligence – combining artificial intelligence with Uster’s expertise – is opening up new possibilities for spinners. Additional benefits include further advancements in the Uster Academy, such as the introduction of the Uster Chatbot and Wiki, providing direct and easy access to Uster know-how. The Academy’s e-learning portfolio has been expanded to serve a broader range of users.

Furthermore, the platform serves as a central access point for notifications and alerts. The Uster 360Q Platform is also where users – free of charge and with no license needed – find Uster news and the latest application literature. Also, the content provided earlier via the Uster Insights App will be integrated into the platform. And of course, the new Uster Statistics web app is part with all well-known functionality in a new format. 

The nova-Institute is launching a new format to address the most pressing issues and current topics in the cellulose fibres sector: nova talks – a digital discussion series designed to spotlight key topics in the cellulose fibres sector. In these open online sessions, leading experts will regularly explore and discuss the latest developments, technologies, and challenges. 

Online cellulose fibre nova talk: 13 November 2025, 13:00-14:30 CEST

Lyocell, a material made from cellulose, is gaining strong attention in the textile industry for its strength, softness, and sustainable production. As the textile industry increasingly prioritises circularity and sustainability, Lyocell 2.0 offers promising solutions through balanced high-quality performance combined with environmental responsibility, while also standing out for its recyclability and versatility.

On 13 November 2025, 13:00-14:30 CEST, nova-Institute will host the first ever nova talk — an interactive online-discussion format offering in-depth discussions on cellulose fibre innovation. This event will bring together internationally recognised experts Asta Partanen (nova-Institute), Philipp Köhler (Thuringian Institute for Textile and Plastics Research Rudolstadt e.V.  – TITK), and Manuel Steiner (LIST Technology AG) to explore next generation cellulose fibres from multiple perspectives.

As current EU directives for textiles are focussing on circularity and sustainability in textile fibres, the discussion will offer an overview of different fibre-to-fibre recycling methods as well as market figures and technology data. A special focus is set on one of the most growing textile fibres: Lyocell. Other key topics will include the emerging use of ionic liquids in Lyocell production, a comparison of chemical and mechanical fibre recycling, and how Lyocell compares with viscose in terms of recyclability and circularity. The panel will also cover technical advances in re-pulping cellulose to regenerate full Lyocell fibres, current trends, and international highlights.

This event is sponsored by LIST Technology AG. Based in Switzerland, LIST Technology AG is the leading technology provider for highly viscous and phase-changing industrial processes based on KneaderReactors, such as dissolution processes for spinning solutions, and inventor of the Lyocell 2.0 technology. LIST’s support highlights the importance of sustainable materials research in driving the textile industry’s future.

The TITK – Thuringian Institute for Textile and Plastics Research Rudolstadt e.V. is among the leading private institutes for polymer-based functional and engineering materials. With a modern technology park, it has recently advanced textile recycling, presenting at the World Expo in Japan the first polo shirt made from triple‑recycled cellulose fibre. The fibre, Lyohemp®, is TITK’s innovation and the first Lyocell made from hemp pulp.

Outlast Technologies is showcasing Aersulate® Wadding - its NASA-inspired, fiber-based insulation - at PERFORMANCE DAYS Munich. Recognized among the Top Ten in the show’s Innovation Fo-rum, Aersulate® was selected from over 2,000 fabric submissions, standing out to the jury for its high thermal efficiency with low volume.

At the core of Aersulate® is aerogel - the world’s lightest solid, consisting of up to 99% air. Out-last embeds an impressive 50% by volume of aerogel directly into viscose fibers, creating an insu-lation that is exceptionally light yet extraordinarily effective.

Proven Performance
Independent lab data confirm a significant increase in thermal efficiency versus conventional solutions:

• 35% higher RCT values in wadding
• Up to +37% higher RCT in needlefelt applications
• Same warmth at up to 35% less volume (no extra bulk)

Performs Under Pressure
Aersulate® Wadding delivers warmth precisely where traditional wadding loses effectiveness - under compression. Air is an excellent natural insulator, but in conventional fills it is squeezed out when pressure is applied (e.g., kneeling or sitting), causing thermal performance to drop. With an exceptionally high aerogel content - 50% by volume - Aersulate® stores air within a sta-ble, porous microstructure that keeps it from escaping. The result is consistently high insulation - even under compression and in humid conditions. From outerwear and ski apparel to technical workwear, Aersulate® reliably sustains thermal performance.

Sustainable by Design
Aersulate® Wadding unites aerogel made from quartz sand with renewable, wood-based viscose to offer a sustainable, animal-free alternative to down and conventional synthetic fills - with no compromise on performance.

“With our patent-pending fiber technology, Aersulate® redefines what textile insulation can be: thin, light, and powerful,” said Ari Pachur, Senior Business Development Manager Overseas of Outlast. “Being selected for the Top Ten out of more than 2,000 entries at PERFORMANCE DAYS is a fantastic recognition of what this technology enables.”

ALLIED Feather + Down, a global leader in high performance, responsibly sourced, and sustainably processed down, recently secured Okeo-Tex® Standard 100 Certification and bluesign® approval for their ExpeDRY Ultra Dry Down insulation. 

Designed to outperform current chemistry-intensive hydrophobic down treatments and approved for safe use by the textile sustainability authorities at Okeo-Tex and bluesign, ExpeDRY is both cleaner and better performing than standard down treatments in real world situations. It is the result of years of research into how down and moisture interact inside of an insulation chamber. 

After bringing the world’s first hydrophobic down insulation to market, ALLIED learned that these traditional chemistries not only introduce PFAS and other questionable chemistries into the environment, but also lack performance as they tend to slow evaporation and retain moisture inside jackets and sleeping bags. While the down itself stays dry, water droplets can become trapped inside the insulation chamber, slowing dry times and compromising warmth. 

ExpeDRY uses FUZE Technologies’s unique gold micro particles to actively reduce moisture in the entire insulation chamber by slowing the formation of water droplets and speeding evaporation. Gold itself is inert, and with FUZE’s ability to control the size and shape of the particles, there is no concern over nano or cytotoxicity. And due to the minute size of the gold material, the amount needed in a common down jacket equates to roughly two grains of salt. Because of this, ALLIED is able to secure Oeko-Tex standard 100 certification and bluesign approval.

“For decades, there has been a fear of using metals to enhance performance, but this is all based on toxic, outdated, silver, zinc or copper ion release technology,” said Andrew Peterson, CTO of FUZE. “FUZE’s parent company is heavily involved in the biomedical space and its proprietary gold meta material technology aids in targeted pharmaceutical therapeutics and medical device development. By using this pharmaceutical grade material, ExpeDRY addresses all environmental and safety concerns, and we are glad to see the certifications backing this technology.” 

“As material innovation evolves and incorporates new solutions, globally recognized certifications play an increasingly important role in supporting sustainability claims and building trust with product developers and brands,” said Daniel Uretsky, President of ALLIED Feather + Down. “The Okeo-Tex Standard 100 certification and bluesign approval bring credibility to what we already know: ExpeDRY takes down, which is arguably the lowest impact insulation on the market, and elevates it to the highest performing insulation, all with less impact on the material than traditional hydrophobic chemistry.” 

ExpeDRY has been adopted worldwide by ALLIED partner brands and demand has quickly overtaken ALLIED’s own hydrophobic down treatment. Now, brands will have even more reason to adopt it. 

ALLIED will be exhibiting at Performance Days in Munich, Functional Fabric Fair in Portland , and ISPO in Munich. 

At Textile Exchange Conference 2025, Eastman Naia™ released its 2025 Sustainability Progress Report and announced its 2025-2030 Sustainability Goals, presenting a record of genuine progress and outlining a renewed roadmap for the years ahead. Rooted in transparency and measurability, the updated goals set a course through 2030 across three key priorities: mitigating climate change, mainstreaming circularity, and caring for society. These commitments reflect the very principles championed at the Textile Exchange conference. 

“We mark five years into our Naia™ sustainability goals journey with pride and humility. This update is a meaningful checkpoint documenting verifiable progress, acknowledging the work still to be done, and presenting a renewed roadmap for the years ahead,” said Ruth Farrell, General Manager of Eastman Textiles. “Most importantly, it reaffirms our unwavering commitment to sustainability, circularity and the health of our industry.”

“We are grateful to our customers, business partners, fellow innovators, and collaborators for their trust, accountability, and continued support. Their engagement has helped drive momentum for Naia™ Renew products and advance regulations and standards for man-made cellulosic fibers (MMCF)” said Claudia de Witte, Marketing and Sustainability Director, Eastman Textiles.

“Achieving circularity at scale remains a major challenge. It requires transforming feedstock infrastructure, advancing regulation, and strengthening industry-wide collaboration. Together, we can help shape the systemic change our industry needs.” 

At Textile Exchange, Naia™ is showcasing the versatility of its sustainable fiber platform through three applications that address brand needs across performance, fashion, and circularity. Designed for light sports and urban lifestyle wear, the Naia™ On the Move blending solution builds on the exceptional performance of Naia™ Renew staple fiber. Naia™ Denim offers comfort and circularity for authentic and fashion denim, also using staple fiber formats. Meanwhile, the new Naia™ GlowNow campaign pays tribute to the classic Naia™ filament yarn, known for its exceptional comfort, easy care and style in low-impact women’s fashion.

These applications are made using Naia™ fibers sourced from sustainably managed forests. When produced with Naia™ Renew, they contain 40% GRS-certified recycled content, through Eastman’s molecular recycling technology. As these fibers demonstrate, Naia™’s sustainability strategy is not just a long-term vision, it’s already taking shape in products designed for real life. From fashion to function, from sourcing to scaling, Naia™ is proving that sustainability and style can go hand in hand.

RE&UP is diving into Textile Exchange Conference 2025, joining a global community of innovators, brands, and changemakers. This year’s conference theme is Shifting Landscapes: Connecting Environmental Adaptation and Systems Transformation, which explores how the fashion industry can adapt, innovate, and accelerate the shift toward circularity. 

RE&UP is a circulartech company reshaping the traditional textile-to-textile paradigm. By producing Next-Gen Cotton and Next-Gen Polyester that maintain the same performance as virgin fibers, it brings sustainable solutions to life, addressing the planet's most pressing challenges. Enriched by SANKO’s centenary knowledge in textile innovation, RE&UP creates a circular ecosystem that transforms end-of-life textile waste into high-quality raw materials at scale.

On Day 1 of the event, Ebru Ozkucuk Guler, RE&UP’s Chief Sustainability Officer, joined the panel “Toward Impactful Textile-to-Textile Recycling Systems”, alongside Suhas Khandagale (H&M) and Cyndi Rhoades (Circle-8 Textile Ecosystems). The interactive session examined the current and future scale of feedstocks for textile-to-textile recycling, discussed legislation, sorting challenges, and explored practical solutions to accelerate circularity. 

“If we truly want to create a solution, brands must stay committed, stepping back is no longer an option,” said Ebru Ozkucuk Guler, RE&UP. “We were thrilled to share insights and explore actionable solutions with partners committed to circularity.” 

Beyond the panel, RE&UP is showcasing its pioneering circular solutions and engaging with brands and suppliers to translate sustainability commitments into measurable impact. By connecting practical solutions with policy insights and on-the-ground innovation, RE&UP is helping the industry move from theory to action, proving that circularity is not just a goal, but a tangible path forward. 

With the fashion industry facing increasing pressure to reduce waste and embrace regenerative practices, events like Textile Exchange are critical for building collaboration, sharing knowledge, and inspiring systemic change.