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A significant return in September 2025 for Texworld Apparel Sourcing with a renewed and enriched program. The professional fair maintains its fundamentals while incorporating new companies, various sourcing countries, and a focus on sustainable innovation—especially through the Initiatives by Texworld space and the “Ready-to-sell” concept.
From September 15 to 17 at the Parc des Expositions in Paris-Le Bourget (France), the fair will reaffirm Messe Frankfurt France’s strategy in favor of sustainability, highlighting responsible initiatives and fostering dialogue on ethical fashion. Julien Schmoll, Director of Marketing and Communications at Messe Frankfurt France, exclusively shares all the latest updates.
Julien Schmoll, Director of Marketing and Communications at Messe Frankfurt France
Can you briefly present the September 2025 edition of Texworld Apparel Sourcing and its main innovations?
Of course! The main novelty for this September edition is the date, because we are returning after six years.
Our offering remains faithful to previous editions, although with the addition of new companies. We will also mention, when relevant, the different sourcing countries of each company, as some have factories in multiple locations. This may interest buyers, especially given the current geopolitical context.
Additionally, the Initiatives by Texworld space, located at the entrance of Hall 4, has grown since the last edition with more activities, as well as the latest trends and innovations from China and Turkey.
Finally, a new concept called “Ready-to-sell” will be showcased in the trend space: it will highlight garments and accessories from various origins, grouped by themes, reflecting the offerings found in stores.
How does the event fit into Messe Frankfurt France’s overall strategy on sustainability and social responsibility?
As usual, the presence of Texpertise, the network of textile fairs organized by Messe Frankfurt, as well as the Texpertise Econogy initiative—which brings together and highlights actors committed to a sustainable and responsible approach—will facilitate exchanges on these topics.
Furthermore, the Avantex sector will also be present in September, aiming to combine innovation and sustainability within the industry.
What specific initiatives have been implemented this year to promote ethical and sustainable fashion at this edition?
We emphasize to exhibitors the importance of obtaining certifications to access the Texpertise Econogy pathway, which will help them quickly discover suppliers offering more responsible products.
On Monday, September 15, late in the morning, an Econogy tour will be organized to guide journalists and interested buyers in understanding this pathway and meeting some of the participating companies.
As in previous editions, several conferences and talks dedicated to these themes will take place, featuring numerous experts.
The Agora, the space for these sessions, will notably host the European Bio Fashion Innovation Day, organized by TCBL, on Wednesday the 17th—the last day of the fair.
Finally, the 8th edition of the Avantex Fashion Pitch will be held, aiming to reward innovation in sustainable fashion. This competition continues to grow and attract new committed partners, such as VLGE and Circular Textiles Days, which join IFA Paris and the Texpertise network this year.
Can you tell us about the sectors or areas dedicated to sustainability, like Avantex, and how you promote innovation in this field?
Avantex will provide concrete solutions for those interested in investing in innovation and sustainable development. Around thirty companies will showcase digital solutions and services for a more responsible fashion industry: circularity, design, upcycling, transparency, traceability, Web 3.0, generative AI, virtualization, biofabrication, and more.
“This gathering of industry players will shape the fashion of tomorrow.”
Does the presence of countries like India, Turkey, or Armenia—known for their expertise—incorporate any dimension of sustainability in their offerings?
We receive suppliers from many nationalities who integrate sustainability into their productions.
India is particularly active in these areas, especially with artisans offering handmade products.
Turkey has made significant progress and continues its industrial transformation.
A concrete example is the “Sustainable Pakistan” pavilion, presenting about ten companies supported by GOPA and GIZ, to promote their virtuous approach to textile production.
Regarding Armenia, a recent addition to our fair, we are working with several companies to incorporate the Texpertise Econogy pathway, and some will likely participate.
In our discussions on ethical production responsibility, we prefer to dialog with European countries, Japan, Vietnam, and China.
What trends or innovations in organic, recycled, or locally sourced textiles will be highlighted at the fair?
The trend of “circularization” of fashion is strong and present at Avantex, including in roundtable discussions with speakers and exhibitors.
We also support this through partnerships with TCBL, Circular Textile Days, the Cradle to Cradle Product Design Institute, AICP, Paris Good Fashion, and the JLF association, which collects and showcases samples left by exhibitors at the end of the event.
Furthermore, we collaborate with the Fédération de la Mode Circulaire, with whom we hope to strengthen our ties.
Does the European project Herewear, showcased at this event, open new avenues toward more circular and environmentally friendly fashion? What are its expectations?
Herewear is an ambitious European project led by a consortium of actors, aiming to demonstrate that it is possible to produce locally, in a closed cycle, garments made from bio-based waste.
What technologies or solutions will be highlighted to improve transparency, circularity, and eco-awareness in the textile supply chain?
Some exhibitors use generative AI, blockchain, or 3D design. Others innovate with raw materials derived from textile or agricultural waste, which sometimes require adaptations in machinery or processes to fully utilize their potential.
How does Messe Frankfurt France encourage exhibitors and visitors to adopt more sustainable and responsible practices?
We actively communicate with our exhibitors to promote a production approach aligned with current and future social challenges. We also remind them that their buyers are increasingly sensitive to these issues, which can be advantageous for closing deals.
What concrete actions are planned to raise greater awareness among sector actors this edition?
We reaffirm our textile and clothing sample and garment recycling initiative, providing containers on the last day of the fair to facilitate reuse by associations or educational projects.
This initiative was well-received last year, and we hope it will have an even greater impact this year.
From your perspective, what are the main challenges to advancing toward more sustainable and ethical fashion, especially in an international context marked by trade tensions and geopolitical issues?
It’s a complex issue, heavily dependent on end consumers. Some companies commit for ethical reasons, but most respond primarily to increasing demand for responsible products.
As long as price remains the main purchasing criterion, sustainability will be limited—especially if the purchasing power of the general public does not increase. The true solution involves strong intervention by governments through appropriate legislation.
What are your goals for turning Texworld Apparel Sourcing into a driver of change in the fashion industry, particularly regarding environmental and social responsibility?
Texworld Apparel Sourcing Paris is Europe’s leading textile and apparel fair. We want to leverage this leadership position to promote values of respect for people and the environment, which are fundamental for Messe Frankfurt.
While our fairs only partially reflect the market, we strive to highlight what we believe is just and essential.
As Director of Marketing and Communications, how do you see the evolution of the textile sector toward more responsible fashion in the coming years?
As I mentioned earlier, this evolution largely depends on the momentum from consumers and governments. Companies will struggle to sacrifice margins unless their competitors do the same.
Until these actors commit seriously, progress will be slow and limited.
What message would you like to convey to fashion professionals attending this edition, especially those wishing to incorporate more sustainable practices?
I would tell them that adopting a professional approach to evolve their business is crucial, keeping in mind our shared, fragile, and valuable responsibility.
“We offer alternatives for your collections with a more virtuous vision, and we are here to support you through this transition. Do not hesitate to contact us or challenge our proposals in this process.”
Words : Julien Schmoll / Anne-Sophie Castro
Photos : Messe Frankfurt France
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