Summit and AGM 2026
How technology is driving a revolution in the textile industry
Over 200 members, a spectacular drone show and the election of the new Swiss Textiles president: that was yesterday’s Annual General Meeting, followed by the summit, at the Kunsthaus Zürich. The event report, including a photo gallery.
Technology, robotics and modern architecture: members were treated to a wealth of content at last night’s summit at the Kunsthaus Zürich. The timing could hardly have been better. The world is in turmoil. Society, the economy and many of its sectors are in a state of uncertainty. Confidence and inspiration are a welcome change of pace. This came in the form of an internationally renowned cyber-illusionist from Zurich.
‘Bringing complex technologies to life’
“Bringing complex technologies to life” – that is the promise of Marco Tempest, Director of Creative Technology & Innovation at ETH Zurich Space, who has worked for NASA, amongst others.
As the evening’s speaker, he transported the guests into a completely different realm, allowing them to forget the hustle and bustle for a short while. In his drone show, supported by state-of-the-art technology and optical illusions, everyone in the audience became part of something truly grand. After the performance, a definite sense of excitement and anticipation spread through the hall of the Chipperfield building, which opened in 2021.
Photographs: Aladin Klieber
Parallels between Tempest and the textile industry
An apt metaphor for the association and the industry: their vision is to bring members together to shape the future of the textile and clothing industry. To fascinate, inspire and motivate – whilst always remaining adaptable.
Another thing it has in common with Tempest: state-of-the-art technologies are also incorporated into smart textiles and specialised solutions. These are in demand all over the world.
My aim is for Swiss Textiles to help create the best possible conditions for our colourful, innovative, niche-oriented, family-run and versatile industry.
Helping to ensure ‘the best possible conditions’
Andreas Christen will be one of those ensuring that this remains the case. At the Annual General Meeting, members elected the COO of Lantal Textiles as the new president of Swiss Textiles. An ETH-qualified industrial and production engineer, he has been working in the textile industry for more than 20 years and, prior to his election, was already championing training and further education on the Executive Board.
“My aim is for Swiss Textiles to help create the best possible framework conditions for our colourful, innovative, niche-oriented, close-knit and diverse industry. To ensure our sustainable presence in international markets with great products and services,” said the newly elected president following his election. He is looking forward to an intensive exchange with the members and to working with the Executive Board and the secretariat.
During his time there, Illi worked with the management team and the board to drive forward Swiss Textiles’ new strategy.
Helped shape the new strategy
The 48-year-old thus succeeds Carl Illi, who steered the trade association for nine years. During his tenure, Illi drove forward Swiss Textiles’ new strategy together with the management team and the board of directors.
His tenure included, amongst other things, the association’s 150th anniversary, which Swiss Textiles dedicated to the future of the industry.
Focus on industry concerns
Illi also campaigned for the abolition of industrial tariffs and represented the sector’s interests at numerous meetings with foreign textile organisations, as well as on overseas missions with Federal Councillors. The central question throughout was always: how can Swiss textile and clothing companies remain internationally competitive?
Another change in personnel is on the horizon for long-standing board member Silvan Wildhaber. After 15 years of service on the Swiss Textiles board, the CEO of Filtex AG is stepping down and will take over as President of economiesuisse in September.
Whilst Tempest’s performance demonstrated how precision, creativity and technique can come together to create something that unites people, Swiss Textiles combines continuity with new perspectives.
Tried-and-tested members and new voices
Joining the re-elected board members Andreas Tischhauser, Urs Schellenberg, Hanspeter Meier and Christiane Hügelmann are joined by new members Adrian Knezovic, Co-CEO of FTC Cashmere; Christian Sallmann, Co-CEO and board member of ISA Sallmann; and Marcel Meister, CEO and owner of Seilerei Meister & Cie.
Whilst Tempest’s performance demonstrated how precision, creativity and technology can come together to create something that unites people, Swiss Textiles combines continuity with new perspectives – and continues on its chosen path with a newly constituted Executive Board.