The Heimtex and Matratzenverband associations held their third joint annual conference in Hamburg, highlighting the benefits of collaboration, trust, and mutual respect. The event brought together industry representatives, former board members, and the trade press to discuss the state of the German home textile and mattress industries.
© Heimtex | Mattress Association
Marking 20 years of the Matratzenverband, CEO Martin Auerbach celebrated its growth from 16 founding members to over 70% market coverage today. New members, including Hüsler Nest, Paar, and several suppliers, were officially welcomed. Key topics included digitalisation, sustainability, and the ongoing skilled labour shortage, alongside the impact of weak domestic consumption on investment decisions.
Prof. Dr. Philipp Büchler of FH Dortmund provided strategies for medium-sized enterprises to strengthen resilience and future-proof their businesses. The conference also featured company presentations on sustainable materials, innovative fittings, and textile solutions.
Both associations continue to drive initiatives such as the ReNewTex network, educating businesses and consumers on circular economy practices, and the EU-supported Circular. Office project, promoting sustainable workplace design.
Board elections confirmed existing leadership, with minor adjustments, and plans for the next joint annual conference in 2027 were announced, reinforcing the commitment to industry collaboration, innovation, and competitiveness in Germany.
More information:
Heimtex
www.heimtex.de
Matratzenverband
www.matratzenverband.de
ReNewTex
www.renewtex.eu