Messe Frankfurt is placing artificial intelligence firmly in the spotlight with the launch of Texpertise Focus AI, a new cross-fair initiative that will run across its international textile and apparel trade fairs from 2026 onwards. The programme will officially debut at Heimtextil in Frankfurt in January 2026 and is designed to demonstrate how AI can be applied responsibly along the entire textile value chain, from fibre production through to retail.

The global textile and apparel industry is undergoing rapid change as artificial intelligence reshapes workflows, enables new business models and offers solutions to long-standing challenges such as sustainability, efficiency and skills shortages. Market analyses suggest that the global AI textile market could reach around USD 21 billion by 2033, representing a tenfold increase on 2023 figures. At the same time, Eurostat reports that more than 13 percent of European industrial companies were already using AI in 2024, including many textile businesses.

Under the Texpertise Focus AI communication umbrella, Messe Frankfurt will highlight AI-related exhibitor solutions and curated content formats across its international textile events. According to Olaf Schmidt, Vice President Textiles and Textile Technologies at Messe Frankfurt, the initiative is intended to provide orientation for the industry. He explains that artificial intelligence is fundamentally changing how companies work, produce and trade, making it essential for trade fairs to showcase relevant developments and encourage global dialogue.

From 2026, AI-related topics will be more visible and accessible at Messe Frankfurt’s textile trade fairs through panel discussions, guided tours and live demonstrations featuring international experts. Exhibitors will also present a wide range of AI-based applications. The first major showcase will take place at Heimtextil from 13 to 16 January 2026, where AI-related programme items will be clearly identified under the Texpertise Focus AI banner.

As part of the Heimtextil programme, internationally recognised AI design expert Tim Fu will take part in an Architonic Live Talk on 14 January. His presentation will explore how artificial intelligence can support collaboration between architecture and interior design, connecting traditional craftsmanship with computational technologies. Following its launch in Frankfurt, Texpertise Focus AI will be rolled out across Messe Frankfurt’s textile fairs worldwide, with local market characteristics and challenges integrated into each event.

Artificial intelligence is already transforming the textile value chain by improving efficiency, quality and resilience. AI-supported systems are being used in raw material sourcing, design and product development, production, logistics and retail. These technologies help reduce waste, optimise supply chains and increase transparency. At the same time, AI is driving the combined transformation of digitalisation and sustainability by supporting resource conservation, improving recycling processes and enabling more accurate demand forecasting.

AI is also reshaping the textile workforce by creating new roles in areas such as data analytics, digital design and process control, while automating standardised production tasks. This offers potential relief for labour shortages and supports more targeted recruitment and skills development within the industry.

The full scope of AI-driven textile processing technologies will be presented at Texprocess in Frankfurt in April 2026, further underlining Messe Frankfurt’s commitment to supporting innovation and responsible technology adoption across the global textile sector.

www.messefrankfurt.com

www.texpertisenetwork.com