Textile ETP on Tour visit Borås, Sweden’s capital of textiles
To provide our members with first-hand insights into cutting-edge research, technologies, and sustainable innovations, we launched ‘Textile ETP on Tour’, an exclusive members-only initiative designed to showcase pioneering developments in textile science and technology. For the third edition on 1 October 2025, we visited Borås, in Sweden, a city renowned for its rich 400-year textile heritage and innovation in textiles.
The day began with an insightful introduction to the Swedish School of Textiles, part of the University of Borås, located within the Textile Fashion Center. This hub serves as a center for education, research, and industry collaboration in textiles and fashion. Participants were guided through the institution's multifaceted offerings, which include design, engineering, and management programs, as well as cutting-edge research initiatives.
The morning featured an interactive workshop where participants explored technologies and business models for a more sustainable textile industry. They alternated between the sessions: one where they discovered ongoing research and the potential of AI to transform design and production, and the other where they examined tools like the Digital Product Passport (DPP) to enhance product value and support circular strategies. These took place in the DO-tank and Smart Textiles Showroom, where attendees explored interactive exhibits showcasing the latest intelligent and sustainable textiles, demonstrating the integration of technology and design and offering a glimpse into the industry’s future.
In the afternoon, participants split into two groups. One group stayed at the Swedish School of Textiles, taking part in a research dialogue followed by a guided tour of the school’s extensive laboratories. The facilities support hands-on learning across the entire textile process, from concept to creation and feature advanced machinery for weaving, knitting, dyeing, and 3D textile printing, enabling students and researchers to test and develop materials and technologies in a full-scale environment.
Another group visited FOV Fabrics, a leading Swedish innovator combining advanced textile performance with circular and sustainable practices. The company manages every stage of production in-house, from design and research to weaving, dyeing, finishing, coating, and quality control, ensuring both quality and resource efficiency. During the visit, participants gained firsthand insight into how FOV develops high-performance fabrics for apparel and industrial use while upholding strong environmental and social standards.
Photos of the event are available here.
The day in Borås was organised as concluding day to the ECOSYSTEX Conference 2025, and welcomed both Textile ETP and ECOSYSTEX. More Textile ETP on Tour events will follow, and we look forward to seeing you at the next one. If you are not yet a member, we invite you to join Textile ETP and become part of the European community shaping the future of the textile industry.
