As one of the most established international events for the fiber and technical textiles industry, the Dornbirn Global Fiber Congress (GFC) is preparing to open its doors for the 65th time in Dornbirn, Austria, from 16 to 18 September 2026. Throughout its sixty-five-year history, the congress has played a significant role in shaping scientific and technological developments within the industry and will once again focus on sustainability, circular economy, innovation and advanced fiber technologies. Bringing together around 600 experts from industry and academia representing more than 30 countries, the event will feature approximately 100 presentations across three parallel sessions. The congress continues to serve as an important platform for knowledge exchange and cooperation on the future of the fiber and textile industry.
A New Era for Dornbirn GFC
A significant change has taken place within the organization ahead of the congress. The Dornbirn GFC Board announced the appointment of Béatrice Moureaux as Managing Director. Moureaux brings more than 25 years of international experience in technical textiles, nonwovens and specialty materials. Having held senior positions at international companies such as DuPont Protective Technologies and Glatfelter/Magnera, she is also actively involved in textile-to-textile recycling projects within ReHubs. In the new period, the focus will be on strengthening the congress’s international reach, particularly in Asia, and enhancing collaboration between industry and academia.
Circular Economy and Innovation at the Core of the Agenda
Among the key themes of this year’s programme are sustainable textiles, recycling technologies, circular economy applications, developments in the nonwovens sector and next-generation cellulosic fiber technologies. During the opening sessions, representatives from Lenzing AG, Bremen Cotton Exchange, EDANA and Barmag will share their perspectives on the future of the industry. Topics such as the European Green Deal, Product Environmental Footprint (PEF) methodologies, the transformation of the nonwovens sector and sustainable textile production are expected to receive particular attention.
Innovation Day & Forum to Be Held in a New Format
Dornbirn GFC’s traditional innovation event will also be presented in a renewed format this year. Within the framework of the Innovation Day & Forum, scheduled for 17 September, participants will present their latest technologies and products to international industry representatives. Companies will introduce their innovations from both technical and commercial perspectives, while the most innovative solution of the year will be selected through evaluations by both the jury and participants. The event continues to serve as an important platform supporting cooperation between research institutions and industrial companies.
Dornbirn GFC’s Global Influence Continues to Grow
In addition to its main European event, Dornbirn GFC continues to expand its activities in Asia. Held in Seoul in May, Dornbirn GFC Korea brought together more than 250 industry experts, while preparations are also underway for new events in China. Covering a broad spectrum ranging from technical textiles and nonwovens to recycling technologies and advanced fiber solutions, Dornbirn GFC continues to maintain its position as one of the global fiber industry’s leading platforms for knowledge sharing and collaboration in its 65th year.
