Looking back, it has once again been an eventful and challenging year. While our industry has not yet fully shaken off the effects of the crisis, there were nevertheless encouraging signs toward the end of the year. In several segments – including machinery and plant engineering – cautious signals of stabilisation and improvement became visible, offering reasons for renewed confidence.

As we look ahead, there are also tangible factors that traditionally support economic momentum. A football World Cup year has often proven to be a stimulus for consumption and investment, and 2026 will also be marked by a series of major international trade fairs. Events such as Techtextil, Texprocess, ITM – serving the entire Eurasian region as a showcase for innovation – and India ITME in one of the world’s fastest-growing textile production countries and markets, will provide important platforms for technology, exchange and new business opportunities.

Above all, we should not forget what defines our sector. We are the textile industry – a strong, resilient industry with a history spanning hundreds of years, one that has repeatedly emerged from crises stronger than before. An industry that meets challenges with creativity, perseverance and innovative solutions. Now is a time to recover, to gather new strength and to prepare for a fresh start in the year ahead.