MADRID, Spain — Spanish manufacturers have taken advantage of different trends, current technologies and an improved economy to boost their businesses according to exhibitors at the Home Textiles Premium Fair here this past September. (7-9) “One of the biggest advantages that technology represents is that we now have the ability to do faster printing and delivery times; shorter times and longer distances,” says Marisol Aznar from Aznar Textil. However, these technological advancements have also spawned a new wave of challenges. Wholesalers now have the option to opt for smaller quantities on textiles. “We used to place orders of a thousand rolls;  now the buyer can order as little as one,” says Rafa Soler, principal of Rafsol. Even though this opens the door for a new trend, many buyers still prefer to opt for larger quantities, as conveyed by an important South American buyer. Manufacturers know and understand that its creative process is key to maintain a leadership role linking design, pricing and creativity. New technologies for developing materials with nanotechnology, has been increasing, especially in the creation of new surfaces that are easier to clean, more durable and that on top of that offer a ‘chic’ look. Some of them are even creating surfaces that have antibacterial properties. Even though these nanotechnologies are not new -they actually emerged back in the 80s- these new tendencies to produce new materials are constantly evolving, and they are becoming the new drivers in consumers demanding durability, design and low maintenance. It is a common feeling shared across Iberians, that the last decade’s economic crisis, has wiped out a good deal of smaller players out of the industry preventing its organic growth. That was shared by Pedro Becerril from Galerías Alvarez. However, positivism still remains towards new opportunities where consumers demand more customized options. Customization is at the top of the priorities list on the buyer’s side and was clearly reinforced by most exhibitors. In upholstery, velvet has become one of the indispensable materials to cover sofas, cushions and even bedding. Its soft touch and velvety feel invites the user to rest and its vast variety of colors is one of its main virtues. Also polyester rich upholstery that imitates crochet or wool, is ‘in’ with a blend of different types of textures and materials for cushions and pillows. Blending textures is the next key where the industry shows its trends and more clear evolution. “In this area Aquaclean® has created a durable and cleanable material with a ‘suede’ like texture, made by heat pressing microfibers,” says Rafael Pascual, President of Aquaclean®. “It is so resistant and flexible that any kind of stain is  easily cleaned with just water and an accompanying cleaning tool,” he adds. Home Textiles Premium brought some new faces and players to the floor, the majority from the area of Valencia, the main textile manufacturing capital of the Iberian Peninsula. For Spain’s industry, the participation of 30 different countries and the revival of the  trade show in their country sets the table for good and clear expectations and a positive impact for Spanish manufacturers to look forward to Frankfurt in January, 2018. Home Textiles Premium by Textilhogar featured its third edition this fall at “La Caja Magica” in Madrid Spain. The trade show has established itself as an important meeting point for the top players in the upholstery, textile and décor sectors across the Iberian Peninsula. Spain’s textile manufacturing capital is situated in the city of comes from the city of Valencia, which serves the greater Iberian Peninsula. by Gerry Porraz