Tèxtils.CAT participated in a learning expedition to Borås (Sweden), one of Europe’s leading hubs for textile innovation and sustainability. The cluster members LIASA La Industrial Algodonera and Alsico Iberia SL also joined the mission hosted by Science Park Borås within the frame of TEX-BREIN project. The learning expedition aimed at exploring collaboration and interregional opportunities to accelerate the circular transition.
The mission offered an in-depth view of Västra Götaland’s innovation ecosystem, including visits to Job Group (of which the cluster member Finsa Job Group is part) and FOV Fabrics, the Smart Textiles Showroom, and guided tours of advanced laboratories covering design, advanced textile structures, fibers, recycling, and testing.
A highlight of the learning expedition was the participation in Borås Textile Days 2025, a two-day event that gathered over 1.200 participants, with dedicated talks on innovation, collaboration, and sustainability. Participants explored new materials, circular design strategies, and cutting-edge technologies shaping the future of the European textile and fashion sector.
Tèxtils.CAT participated in the Borås Textile Days 2025 with Oxana Dabrock, Innovation Project Manager, joining the European Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) panel. She noted that the textile market is not yet fully prepared, with SMEs that could face administrative, reporting, and investment challenges, as well as uncertainties about EPR’s impact on competitiveness. At the same time, she highlighted opportunities for innovation, sustainable growth, and new partnerships along the textile value chain.
The learning expedition strengthened the interregional cooperation networks of the cluster and its members, expanding the understanding of how innovation ecosystems support circularity and policy implementation. These insights will continue to inform collaboration within TEX-BREIN.
Tèxtils.CAT is starting to plan its next learning expedition to Portugal next March within the framework of TEX-BREIN which will focus on automated sorting and recycling facilities to inspire and foster circular innovation for SMEs.
Through these missions, Tèxtils.CAT reinforces its commitment to connecting its members with other textile ecosystems, increasing international visibility, and promoting collaborative innovation across Europe. These initiatives are part of a broader strategy to position Catalonia as an active and forward-thinking contributor to the future of the textile industry.
