Textile transformation

Global upheavals, economic uncertainty, and a tense consumer climate are posing challenges for the textile industry. At the same time, digital technologies such as AI are rapidly changing markets and business models. The Heimtextil trade fair reflects these transformations. It aims to provide inspiration and guidance in a complex market environment. Under the motto “Lead the Change,” more than 3,100 exhibitors from 65 countries will present new collections and textile solutions at the trade fair for home and contract textiles and textile design from January 13 to 16, 2026, providing a comprehensive overview of the market.

In 2026, the trade fair will launch a new hall concept that will better combine product groups and cover the entire spectrum of textile and non-textile interior design. “Heimtextil is continuously evolving alongside the industry in line with market needs – in terms of content, strategy and structure,” explains Olaf Schmidt, Vice President Textiles and Textile Technology at Messe Frankfurt.

In 2026, the curated Trend Arena will find a new home in Hall 6.1 – surrounded by the Bed, Bath & Living and Textile Design areas. Together with the Alcova Milano design platform, the Megatrends area will showcase trends for retail, industry and contract business under the motto “Craft is a verb” (as featured in the November issue of diy).

The practical content program on the Texpertise Stage in Hall 6.0 will also provide expert knowledge on topics such as customer proximity, differentiation, and AI-supported design.

With her immersive installation “among-all” in Hall 3.0, architect and designer Patricia Urquiola aims to create a textile experience for all the senses that combines aesthetics, comfort, functionality, and sustainability. The installation demonstrates how AI-supported design can address individual human needs and enable new spatial concepts for design, retail, and hospitality.

In Hall 3.0, Heimtextil brings together key interior design ranges – from wallpaper and carpets to curtains, privacy screens, and sun protection. The area showcases textile and non-textile solutions for sustainable interior design.

The Carpets & Rugs segment continues to grow and will now span four hall levels (11.0, 11.1, 12.0, and 3.0). It will be flanked by the new Flooring & Equipment product group with non-textile floor…