Balancing Between Nearshoring and Regional Supply Chains with a Global Outlook

Sustainability has moved from aspiration to expectation. What specific frameworks, partnerships, or showcases at Intertex Portugal are helping exhibitors demonstrate verifiable sustainability credentials rather than generic green claims?
Serhan Pul: We encourage exhibitors to present internationally recognised certifications like GOTS, OEKO-TEX, and ISO 14001 to support their claims.

We also collaborate with innovation centres and industry organisations that are committed to sustainable practices. Special showcases during the event highlight companies leading in responsible sourcing, recycling, and eco-friendly production. Our focus is to help buyers access transparent and verified sustainability information, moving beyond generic green marketing.

Portugal has earned a strong global reputation for ethical production, technical excellence, and sustainability—especially in textiles. How is the event leveraging this national advantage to attract international attention and participation?
Serhan Pul: We position the event as a gateway to one of Europe's most respected textile markets, emphasising Portugal’s commitment to quality, innovation, and responsible manufacturing. Through targeted marketing, strategic partnerships, and curated exhibitor profiles, we showcase Portugal’s industrial strengths while creating a truly international business platform. This national advantage allows us to appeal to brands seeking reliable, sustainable, and high-quality sourcing solutions.

The textiles and apparel industry is undergoing rapid technological disruption—from AI-generated fashion to blockchain-enabled supply chains. How is Intertex Portugal embracing this evolution, and what kind of innovation can visitors expect to see this year?
Serhan Pul: As an organisation committed to leading innovation in the textile industry, ITF Intertex Portugal closely follows the technological transformations reshaping our sector.

This year, we are proud to highlight advancements such as AI-driven fashion solutions, smart textiles, and blockchain applications within the supply chain.

Through our exhibitors and special showcases, visitors will experience firsthand how technology is enhancing creativity, efficiency, and transparency in the industry.

At ITF Intertex Portugal, we believe that embracing innovation is not just an option—it is a responsibility towards building a more sustainable and dynamic future for textiles.

As trade shows become increasingly hybrid, what is your view on the enduring value of in-person events—particularly in a tactile industry like textiles and apparel? Is Intertex Portugal experimenting with any digital extensions or hybrid formats?
Serhan Pul: We firmly believe in the irreplaceable value of physical exhibitions, especially in the textile and apparel sector where touch, texture, and personal interaction are key.

We focus on delivering a strong, in-person experience that allows participants to fully engage with products and build authentic business relationships.

At this time, we do not operate a hybrid or online-only format, as we prioritise the unique advantages of face-to-face connection that our industry demands.

One persistent challenge is the underrepresentation of smaller suppliers—particularly from the Global South—at major European trade shows. Is Intertex Portugal taking any specific steps to make the event more accessible and inclusive for such participants?
Serhan Pul: We are committed to creating a truly global and inclusive platform.

We actively work to ensure broad representation from different regions, including emerging markets.
To this end, we have established a strong network of agencies in key markets such as Tunisia, China, India, and Pakistan, in addition to Portugal.

Through these local partnerships, we provide tailored support and accessible opportunities for suppliers of all sizes, helping them connect with international buyers and expand their global reach.
We believe that diversity and accessibility are essential to building a dynamic and resilient textile industry.

Footfall is no longer the only metric that matters. What tools or feedback mechanisms does Intertex Portugal use to evaluate real impact—such as business leads, collaborations formed, or follow-on deals post-event
Serhan Pul: At ITF Intertex Portugal, we agree that true success is measured not only by visitor numbers, but by the quality of connections and business outcomes achieved.

To assess our real impact, we gather detailed feedback through post-event surveys targeting both exhibitors and visitors, focusing on metrics such as business leads generated, new collaborations formed, and contracts initiated after the fair.

Additionally, we maintain close communication with our network of international agencies, who provide valuable insights into follow-up deals and partnerships resulting from the event. Our commitment is to continuously refine our platform to maximise tangible business value for all participants.

The profile of trade show visitors is changing rapidly. Are you noticing new categories of visitors at Intertex Portugal—like DTC brands, e-commerce entrepreneurs, or sustainability auditors—who weren’t prominent earlier?
Serhan Pul: Yes, we are observing a diversification in the profile of our visitors at ITF Intertex Portugal.
Alongside traditional wholesale buyers and manufacturers, we are increasingly welcoming direct-to-consumer (DTC) brands, e-commerce entrepreneurs, and sustainability-focused consultants.

This shift reflects the evolving dynamics of the textile and apparel industry, and we actively adapt our event to meet the interests and needs of these emerging segments.

Looking ahead, how do you see Intertex Portugal evolving in the next 3–5 years? Do you envision it becoming a bridge between Europe and Lusophone markets, a launchpad for regional innovation, or something altogether different?
Serhan Pul: Over the next 3–5 years, we envision ITF Intertex Portugal strengthening its position as a vital bridge between Europe and Lusophone markets.

At the same time, we aim to establish the fair as a dynamic platform for regional innovation, sustainability, and new business models in the textiles industry.

By expanding our international network, fostering partnerships, and integrating emerging industry trends, we are committed to driving the growth and global relevance of ITF Intertex Portugal.