Heimtextil has opened the 2026 season with a strong signal of stability and confidence, welcoming around 3,000 exhibitors from 66 countries to Frankfurt. The world’s leading trade fair for home and contract textiles and textile design continues to expand its international reach while responding to economic and geopolitical volatility with a renewed focus on knowledge-sharing, innovation and efficient market access.

The new hall layout enhances visibility and brings complementary product segments closer together, creating clearer market orientation and more efficient networking between supply and demand. Exhibitors present a comprehensive range of textile and non-textile interior solutions, including decorative and upholstery fabrics, bed linen, terry towelling, wallpaper and carpets, reinforcing Heimtextil’s role as a central global sourcing and inspiration platform.

Against a backdrop of rapid technological change, particularly the growing influence of artificial intelligence, Heimtextil positions itself as an important guide for the industry. Through best-practice examples and expert insights, the fair demonstrates how companies can adapt business strategies, identify new opportunities and unlock future growth.

Detlef Braun, Member of the Executive Board of Messe Frankfurt, says the global textile industry increasingly relies on Heimtextil for orientation in dynamic markets. He notes that the mattress and carpet industries have also strengthened their presence in Frankfurt, underlining the fair’s role as a strategic business hub while showcasing how AI can be applied profitably across the value chain.

A key highlight of the opening was the presentation by architect and designer Patricia Urquiola, who unveiled her immersive installation among-all. Created exclusively for Heimtextil, the installation explores the future of interior design through innovative materials, spatial experimentation and interactive elements powered by AI. In conversation with Rosa Bertoli, Global Design Director of Wallpaper magazine, Urquiola discussed how regenerated nylon, textile waste and bio-based materials can form intelligent, transformative environments that connect people, materials and technology.

The revised hall concept spans 17 hall levels, making navigation easier and trade fair visits more efficient. Interior design solutions are concentrated in Halls 3.0, 3.1 and 4.1, while the Bed, Bath & Living segment sits alongside Smart Bedding to serve retailers, hospitality and contract buyers. The Sleep & Meet area in Hall 4.0 debuts as a central meeting point for the mattress and sleep industry, supported by the German Mattress Industry Association.

Knowledge exchange remains central to Heimtextil, with expert talks and networking across the Texpertise Stage, Talk Spot areas and the Future Floor. The expanded Carpets & Rugs segment now covers four hall levels and, for the first time, includes non-textile floor coverings. Another focal point is Heimtextil Trends 26/27, where the Trend Arena explores the interplay of AI and craftsmanship under the theme ‘Craft is a verb’.

Heimtextil 2026 runs from 13 to 16 January 2026 in Frankfurt, reaffirming its position as a global knowledge hub and marketplace for the textile interior industry.

www.heimtextil.messefrankfurt.com