Brussels event to bring together global brands, policymakers and recycling innovators advancing textile circularity
Textiles Recycling Expo 2026 will return for its second edition on 24–25 June at Brussels Expo in Belgium, bringing together companies and organisations working on large-scale textile circularity and recycling solutions.
The event will focus on practical implementation, collaboration and industrial-scale systems aimed at improving textile recycling infrastructure, materials innovation and circular manufacturing practices.
Industry Leaders to Discuss Circularity at Scale
The conference programme will feature speakers from organisations including On, H&M, DHL, Volkswagen, Shein, Textile Exchange, Fashion For Good, UNEP, EURATEX, European Environment Agency and the European Commission.
This year’s discussions will centre on how the industry is moving from pilot initiatives toward commercially scalable circular systems.
Maximilian Köhnlein, Senior Specialist – Apparel Material Innovation at On, will participate in sessions examining stretch, biobased and recycled elastane technologies. The discussions are expected to address the challenges associated with recycling high-performance apparel containing blended fibres and performance materials.
H&M’s Julie-Marlène Pelissier will discuss recycled fibre integration, demand for next-generation materials and the impact of evolving European regulations on the textile sector.
Logistics and Recycling Infrastructure in Focus
The role of logistics and reverse supply chains will form another key part of the programme. Rebecca Howes from DHL will address the growing importance of collection systems, consolidation networks and textile waste management infrastructure as circular textile systems expand.
Cross-industry applications for recycled textiles will also be highlighted during the event. Volkswagen’s Dr. Thomas Große will share perspectives on the use of recycled textile materials within the automotive sector and the role of non-fashion industries in supporting end markets for recycled fibres.
Gail Orton from Shein will contribute to discussions focused on policy developments, producer responsibility and the future regulatory framework for textile circularity in Europe.
Expo to Feature 160+ Exhibitors
Alongside the conference sessions, more than 160 exhibitors are expected to showcase developments in textile collection, sorting technologies, recycling systems, fibre regeneration, traceability platforms, AI-driven automation and circular material innovation.
Additional features planned for the 2026 edition include the Textiles Recycling Awards, the Reju VIP Lounge, the Industry Alliance Hub, networking opportunities and access to Future Fabrics Expo, which will take place alongside the event.
