At the same time, PERFORMANCE DAYS will further expand its innovation platform with the introduction of two new dedicated areas: the Garment Tech Forum and the Cellulose Forum.

As the textile industry accelerates its transition away from fossil-based resources, bio-based materials are becoming a key driver for the future of performance textiles. Next-generation innovations are opening new possibilities in functionality, design, and responsible material development. The Focus Topic for October 2026 will highlight high-impact innovations derived partly or fully from biomass, showcasing solutions that can help reduce dependency on fossil resources, improve material transparency, and support the industry’s transformation toward more future-oriented material systems. At the same time, the shift toward bio-based solutions also raises important questions regarding scalability, feedstock sourcing, traceability, certification, and supply chain transparency. PERFORMANCE DAYS aims to create visibility around these developments and encourage dialogue across the entire value chain.

“The transition from fossil-based to bio-based materials represents one of the textile industry’s most important shifts of the coming decade. While these innovations unlock new opportunities in performance, design, and circularity, their success ultimately depends on how effectively we address challenges such as scalability, responsible sourcing, and transparency across the value chain,” says Anna Schuster, Head of Sustainability at PERFORMANCE DAYS.

To strengthen the focus on credible innovation, the Focus Topic Forum will prioritize materials combining strong performance properties with transparent sourcing and verified sustainability credentials. Submitted developments should contain a minimum of 50% bio-based content or combine preferred fiber content with innovative bio fabricated ingredients such as dyes, finishes, or coatings.

Expert jury & Trend Forum highlights

Ahead of the October show, an independent expert jury will once again review and select the most outstanding material innovations across all categories. The selected highlights will be showcased at the Trend Forum in October, the central hub of the fair, as well as within the dedicated category forums, providing visitors with a curated overview of the most relevant developments shaping the market.

New forum highlights for October 2026

Cellulose Forum: Expanding into plant-based fibers

In line with the growing focus on bio-based innovation, PERFORMANCE DAYS will also introduce the new Cellulose Forum, dedicated entirely to plant-based and cellulose-based materials. While cotton remains a cornerstone of the textile industry, innovation is rapidly expanding toward alternative cellulose sources and regenerated cellulosic. Natural fibers such as hemp, linen, nettle, and algae are increasingly being explored alongside regenerated cellulose materials like Lyocell, Modal, and viscose as renewable, scalable, and performance-driven alternatives. The Cellulose Forum positions cellulose as a future-oriented material solution, bridging performance, scalability, and responsible sourcing.

Garment Tech Forum: From material to application

With the introduction of the new Garment Tech Forum, PERFORMANCE DAYS is expanding its perspective beyond fabrics alone and placing greater emphasis on how materials are transformed into functional garment solutions. The curated format focuses on the intersection of material innovation, garment construction, bonding technologies, wearable technologies, trims, and product engineering. Rather than showcasing finished products, the forum highlights the technical solutions and development processes behind next-generation performance apparel. For visitors, the Garment Tech Forum offers practical insight into the processes, partnerships, and technologies driving modern product development.

Fashion Forum: Strengthening the creative perspective

The Fashion Forum further strengthens its role within the Trend Forum by highlighting materials and innovations with a strong fashion perspective. With a clear focus on fashion aesthetics and trend-driven developments, the category is designed to inspire designers, creatives, and product developers across the industry. Curated in collaboration with Luca Zanatta, Head of Fabrics & Materials Research at Diesel, selected materials will additionally be showcased within the Creative Area, creating further inspiration and new creative impulses.

Strong forum concept across categories

The October 2026 edition will once again feature a curated forum landscape designed to provide targeted inspiration and sourcing opportunities across key material segments:

• Wool Forum
  

• Trend Forum
  

• Accessories & Trims
  

• Bodywear Forum
  

• Footwear Forum
  

• NEW: Cellulose Forum
  

• NEW: Garment Tech Forum

Together, these forums serve as central inspiration hubs, showcasing the most relevant innovations and guiding visitors through the key developments shaping the future of the textile industry.