The German textile and mattress industry faced a difficult 2024 and enters 2025 with continued concern. According to the Competence Centre for Textiles and Sun Protection, persistent economic weakness and subdued consumer demand have placed many manufacturers in a vulnerable position. Despite the downturn, the Heimtextil trade fair in Frankfurt offered a rare moment of optimism, with the Mattress Association participating for the first time.
German mattress manufacturers reported a 9.4% drop in revenue and a 7.7% decline in sales. Foam mattresses saw the largest losses among major segments (-11.9% revenue, -10.5% sales), followed by latex and pocket springs. Box spring and topper mattresses also experienced double-digit losses. Only the 'other' category saw strong demand (+17.1% revenue), despite a slight sales drop. Slatted frames were the only product group to show growth in both sales (+0.3%) and revenue (+2.6%).
The home textiles sector declined by 1.8%, with bedding being the only area of growth (+15.8% sales, +1.5% revenue). Decorative and curtain fabrics suffered the greatest losses, while upholstery fabric demand rose but revenue fell.
Global geopolitical tensions, economic uncertainty, and a revised lower forecast for 2025 have compounded industry concerns. The associations also warned of increased pressure from Chinese imports, especially as the US imposes steep tariffs on Chinese goods, potentially redirecting Chinese exports to Europe. Additionally, the US's planned 25% import tariff on EU products poses further challenges.
Corporate insolvencies rose 17% in Germany in 2024, the highest level since 2015, further impacting the sector. Consolidation and market pressure continue to affect home textiles and sun protection manufacturers.
Source: www.moebelmarkt.de