INDEX 2026: navigating a new era for nonwovens

This article was originally published in the Sustainable Nonwovens Magazine (SNW), Issue Oct/Nov, 2025. Republished with permission. All rights reserved. 


Murat Dogru, general manager of EDANA discusses how next year’s INDEX show will serve as the industry's strategic compass for the years to come.

As the global nonwovens industry prepares for its flagship event, INDEX 2026, all eyes are on Geneva, Switzerland.

Taking place from 19 to 22 May 2026 at Palexpo, this triennial exhibition stands as the world’s premier gathering for the nonwovens community, bringing together the entire value chain in one location. More than just a trade show, INDEX is an essential platform for innovation, collaboration, and market development. To understand its significance in this transformative era, we sat down with Murat Dogru, general manager of EDANA and a key spokesperson for the industry.

Dogru, who took on his role in July 2022, provides an insightful and forward-looking perspective on how INDEX 2026, as his second attendance edition, will serve as the industry’s strategic compass for the years to come.


Sustainable Nonwovens: Murat, let’s start with the big picture. What is your overall viewpoint on the nonwovens industry today, and what are its most pressing challenges?

Murat Dogru: The nonwovens industry is in a state of profound transformation. While it is experiencing robust growth as evidenced by market projections, the path forward is not without its complexities.

The most significant challenge we face is the issue of overcapacity, a direct result of the rapid production expansion during the pandemic. This has created an intensely competitive environment.

However, we see this not as a crisis but as a crucial market correction that is forcing our industry to become more agile and innovative. The challenge of overcapacity is compelling producers to re-evaluate their business models and find new, higher-value applications for their lines in sectors beyond single-use, such as durable goods.

The industry is also navigating a shifting regulatory landscape. New regulations are no longer just a hurdle to be cleared; they are a catalyst for innovation. They are pushing us to rethink material science and production processes to meet higher standards of sustainability and product stewardship. This new era requires us to be more adaptable than ever before, aligning our operations with evolving consumer demands for products that are high-performing and environmentally responsible.


SNW: So, how does INDEX 2026 serve as a solution to these challenges?

MD: INDEX is the ideal platform to tackle these issues in a constructive and collaborative way. In a global economy where protectionism is on the rise, INDEX stands as a testament to the importance of global trade and collaboration. It provides a physical space where companies from all parts of the value chain can come together to engage in new leads and strengthen relationships with existing partners. 

The exhibition’s design emphasises networking and face-to-face interaction, which is critical for solving complex problems and forging the strategic partnerships needed to innovate.

We approach INDEX 2026 from two distinct angles. First is the comprehensive exhibition floor, where every major sector, from hygiene and wipes to filtration and automotive, is represented. This broad coverage ensures that a wide range of companies can find relevant partners and solutions.

The second angle is the extensive programme of seminars, workshops, and side-events. This dedicated programme provides an immersive experience, a chance for visitors to go beyond the stands and dive deep into specific topics.

It’s a place where we can discuss the future of the industry, learn from experts, and collectively navigate the path forward. This immersive format allows attendees to truly visualise the “world of tomorrow” for nonwovens, seeing innovations in action and understanding their implications firsthand.


SNW: What are the key themes and sectors that will be highlighted at INDEX 2026?

MD: Sustainability is, without a doubt, a big topic and will be a central theme of the event. We view the regulatory push for greener production as a powerful force for progress. It is a unique opportunity for our industry to lead by developing new materials and processes that reduce our environmental footprint while maintaining performance. We will showcase how nonwovens are at the forefront of the circular economy, from recycling to the development of bio-based materials.

Beyond sustainability, the event will shine a spotlight on key growth sectors. Filtration will be a major focus, driven by the increasing global demand for clean air and water. The automotive industry is another area of intense interest, as manufacturers look to lightweight, high-performance nonwovens to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. Of course, all major sectors - including but not limited to hygiene, wipes, medical, and geotextiles - will be fully represented, ensuring the event remains a comprehensive reflection of the entire nonwovens ecosystem.


SNW: How will INDEX showcase innovation and product development?

MD: Innovation is the lifeblood of our industry, and INDEX 2026 is its premier showcase. The event provides a crucial platform for companies to launch a new product or development and present their brand to the most important actors in the industry.

A key feature for recognising this creativity will be the INDEX Innovation Awards, which we will use to celebrate the most thoughtful and groundbreaking product developments across various categories. These awards honour excellence and inspire the next wave of innovators, highlighting the potential for new applications and solutions that address real-world needs. The awards are a powerful way to demonstrate that even in a challenging market, our industry continues to push the boundaries of what is possible.


SNW: The nonwovens industry is inherently global. How does INDEX reinforce this perspective in a world with a general trend toward protectionism?

MD: The nonwovens industry is a global success story, and its health depends on free and fair trade. As an association, EDANA has always been a strong advocate for removing trade barriers and fostering a level playing field.

INDEX 2026 is the physical embodiment of this mission. The event brings together exhibitors and visitors from over 100 countries, creating a unique international hub where business transcends borders. We see INDEX as a direct counter-narrative to protectionism. It is a place where we prove that global collaboration, information exchange, and shared platforms are essential for a thriving industry.

We will be providing statistics on countries of origin and highlighting new hubs of growth, reinforcing that the nonwovens industry is a well-connected, global ecosystem.


SNW: Finally, what is your closing message about the future of the industry and the role of INDEX?

MD: The future is undeniably bright. Our industry has proven its resilience and agility, transforming challenges into opportunities for growth and innovation.

INDEX 2026 will be a powerful affirmation of this spirit. It will be the place where connections are made, where new ideas are born, and where the strategic path forward is collectively charted.

The event is essential for fostering a well-connected environment where every member of the value chain can thrive. We look forward to welcoming the entire industry back to Geneva to navigate this new era together and build an even stronger, more sustainable future for nonwovens.