Sustainability, functionality, and innovation are driving forces in the evolution of workwear. Sitex, a long-standing leader in this segment, will share its expertise at DAY 0 the day before PERFORMANCE DAYS, showcasing how forward-thinking materials and technologies can reduce waste while making workwear safer, more durable, and more comfortable. In this interview, Moritz Schäpsmeier, corporate communications at Sitex, shares insights on current workwear market developments, the influence of sports and outdoor technologies, material trends, and the role of sustainability in their work.

Sitex has been active in the workwear segment for many years – what developments are you currently seeing as most significant in the market?
Quality, functionality, and meeting all necessary protection classes and standards remain the most important aspects of workwear. That hasn’t changed. However, we see a growing demand for fashion elements. Workwear is increasingly expected to make a statement.

To what extent are technologies or material trends from the sports or outdoor sectors influencing developments?
When it comes to functionality and improving comfort, influences from these sectors are regularly transferred. One example from a very specialized area we work in is reusable protective gowns for operating rooms. Here, breathable tri-laminates are used—similar to those known from the outdoor sector under certain brands.

What materials do you rely on in the different areas?
Since we operate in very diverse segments, this question isn’t easy to answer. The range extends from classic cotton blends to the laminates mentioned for protective gowns. Essentially, each segment has its own requirements, which influence the choice of materials.

How does the trend toward greater sustainability influence your work in the field of workwear, and how far have you progressed here?
Sustainability has never been a trend for us—it is an essential part of our business model. Quality and durability, reparability, and efficient use have always been central to what we develop and advance. In addition, recyclability plays a key role. In our industry, we work with many partners to develop solutions for recovering textile raw materials. In healthcare, we have made a very innovative, sustainable material our standard for clothing: Tencel. The fibers, also known as lyocell, are produced from wood. The regional origin of the raw material—mostly wood waste from industry—lays the foundation for outstanding performance.

What role do the PERFORMANCE DAYS play for you as a platform to discover new materials or technologies for workwear?
I look forward to gaining insights and exchanging ideas. I want to leave with a few good ideas in my luggage.

Which functional properties are most important to your customers in workwear materials (e.g., protection, durability, comfort)?
The priority of these properties depends on the area where the textiles are used. Even within healthcare—our main field—the ranking differs between operating rooms and wards. What matters most is that the materials used meet the specific requirements as well as possible.