What developments in the textile industry give us confidence for the year 2025? The question is undoubtedly a challenging one, as the world is currently characterised by a multitude of negative influences, developments and trends. We hear this from the press every day – from morning to night, a lack of prospects is communicated everywhere. We often overlook the fact that we (still) have an efficient industry in Europe. It's important that we reflect on our strengths again and start to utilise them in a targeted manner.

 The classic virtues that characterise the German economy are in our own hands: diligence, discipline, reliability, curiosity, speed and quality. Every individual in society - just like industry - can play their part. No external influences are required. This is precisely where our opportunity lies - both as a society and for companies. Of course we have many negative location factors, but historically we have never been a country with special resources. We have always had to work hard to achieve prosperity. However, it is also clear that politicians need to come to their senses and create sufficient framework conditions in order to remain competitive. Sometimes the impression is given that the strengths of the German economy has disappeared overnight. But that is not the case! We have excellent skilled labour and are still a leader in many areas, even if this is not currently perceived as such. We have the necessary experience and expertise to successfully bring projects and products to series production in such a way that they function reliably - and for the long term!

 We are entering the new year with vigour and confidence. In recent years, we have made advances in numerous areas. In addition, with Blanke textech, we have an efficient textile finisher and laminator in the M&A Group. An accredited in-house laboratory rounds off our range of services. We have developed fascinating and pioneering products in areas such as sustainability and the circular economy, screening, safety and energy efficiency. Now we need to actively turn this into turnover and sales. To do this, we need the entire supply chain right through to the consumer, who should be more than just a ‘consumer’. With Temu and Shein's throwaway culture –we are not making progress either as an industry or as humanity. The consumption of resources in textile production is enormous. As a German manufacturer, we know how textiles can be produced in an environmentally friendly way - and we DO it! Yes, we have a lot of bureaucratic procedures in Germany – but we also invented the airbag, aspirin, television, nuclear fission and even the first computer by Konrad Zuse ... Overall, we hope that everyone will become more confident and courageous again ... We need to create enthusiasm, joy and a positive spirit and finally tackle the problems that undoubtedly exist with determination – and solve them!

 Neither as a society nor as an industry do we have to (or can we) wait for external help. If we all work together, we can survive internationally. Each and every one of us has a responsibility to focus on our strengths in order to break out of the general lethargy. So let's start together – now.