The textile sector in 2022 managed a solid performance despite broader uncertainties and, above all, elevated energy costs in the finishing segment. Exports remained strong for most of the year, and tourism’s extraordinary momentum helped lift turnover by 13.2 percent, with Valencian Community firms clustered in l’Alcoià, El Comtat, and la Vall d’Albaida contributing notably. Hotel and restaurant renovations, which paused during the pandemic, were decisive in reaching a turnover of 2 billion 275 million euros. In this environment, the industry monitored several international markets, where demand began to slow due to inflation or the waning of activity at the Frankfurt fair, starting this Tuesday. Interest rate hikes also played a role in shaping market sentiment.
The Frankfurt fair marked a turning point as Heimtextil, the major home textiles and contract trade show, returned after a two-year hiatus caused by the pandemic. The industry’s latest results for the concluded year are broadly positive, with turnover surpassing the pre-pandemic high of 2,016 million euros recorded before 2020. This recovery underscores a resilient sector adapting to new market dynamics.
Exports were a principal driver of growth, reaching 1,103 million euros, up 6 percent from 916 million euros three years earlier. France, Portugal, and Italy are among the leading destinations, with the United States expanding its share as well. Imports stood at 1,605 million euros, reflecting a substantial increase of 20.6 percent in the period under review.
Another factor boosting results was the gradual withdrawal of strict contract controls that had been in place during the health crisis. Tourism’s rebound brought back demand for hotel and catering improvements, including textiles such as sheets, duvets, cushions, and upholstery for sofas and chairs. These positives helped the sector weather recent volatility and supported ongoing modernization in hospitality spaces.
The Jover Group, based in Cocentaina, represents a notable example in this market. Its manager, Francisco Jover, indicates that activity has regained its former vitality, which has positively affected outcomes. He notes that rising electricity and gas costs remain a real challenge, squeezing profit margins and complicating profitability for some companies. This issue was described as a major concern for the sector’s broader health.
Frankfurt fair takes the pulse of textile two years after the last edition
Looking ahead to 2023, observers like Pepe Serna, president of the Valencia Community Textile Entrepreneurs Association (Ateval) and the Spanish Intertextile Council, warn that uncertainty remains high in international markets. A slowdown in exports was already evident in the final months of the previous year. He emphasizes that rising financial costs and shrinking family purchasing power due to inflation weigh on the sector, reminding readers that the product mix is not considered essential. Despite these headwinds, optimism persists among exhibitors.
Forty-nine companies from l’Alcoià, El Comtat, and Vall d’Albaida will travel to Frankfurt with confidence after being temporarily relocated for the event. Altogether, 2,300 exhibitors from fifty countries participate, presenting a useful gauge of industry health. The opening day suggested a lively atmosphere, signaling robust engagement and ongoing interest in textile offerings.