By Behnam Ghasemi, Editor-in-Chief
At the Carpet and Flooring Expo (ICFE) 2026 in Istanbul, Saurer Technologies presented its latest innovation for the carpet industry, reinforcing its long-term commitment to yarn development and market-driven solutions. Speaking with MENA Carpet News during the exhibition, Mr. Gerd Pohlmann, Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Saurer Technologies, shared insights into the company’s newest machine designed specifically for processing DTY (Draw Textured Yarn).
Standing at the Saurer booth, Pohlmann introduced what he described as a strategic response to evolving carpet trends. The newly developed machine is dedicated to processing DTY yarns, which are increasingly used in carpets that emphasize soft touch, enhanced texture, and a refined, shiny appearance.
“DTY yarn is becoming more important in the carpet sector,” Pohlmann explained. “We have clearly seen this trend developing, and this machine is our response to that demand. It complements our existing carpet cabling technologies and allows us to serve this growing segment with precision.”
According to Saurer, the development is not a short-term reaction to fashion. While BCF yarn continues to maintain its strong presence in the market, DTY has carved out a significant position in specific carpet applications. Pohlmann emphasized that DTY’s role is not merely seasonal but part of a broader product diversification within the flooring segment.
Saurer Strengthens ICFE Presence
ICFE 2026 marked Saurer’s second participation with a booth at the exhibition. For the company, the Istanbul-based show has become an essential meeting platform. “This exhibition is very important for us,” Pohlmann noted. “Many of our customers are here. It is valuable to maintain close contact, understand their needs, and present our latest developments face to face.”
Read more: Saurer Technologies Twisting Solutions at ICFE 2026
The past two to three years have been challenging for the global textile machinery industry. Post-pandemic investment waves were followed by economic and political uncertainties that affected many markets, including key carpet-producing countries. While caution remains, Saurer observes a shift in market sentiment.
“We have had very constructive discussions over the past days,” Pohlmann said. “There is a bit more optimism compared to the last two years. It is still a difficult environment for both manufacturers and suppliers, but we feel that the market may be stabilizing.”
From a regional perspective, Turkey remains a cornerstone of the global carpet industry. However, Pohlmann highlighted a noticeable movement toward Asia-Pacific markets. Several Turkish carpet producers are expanding operations in Asian countries, relocating machinery, or opening new branches in the region. Saurer has observed increasing interest from Asian customers as well.
“Asia-Pacific is clearly a growing market for the carpet sector,” he stated. “We have had very promising discussions with customers from that region during the exhibition.”
Looking ahead, automation is expected to play a critical role in shaping future production strategies. Rising labor costs and the growing difficulty of finding qualified operators are pushing manufacturers to consider higher levels of process automation. Saurer has already seen this development in the United States and notes that Turkish producers are beginning to explore similar directions.
“It is becoming harder everywhere to find skilled personnel,” Pohlmann explained. “Automation will be an important topic not only in mature markets but also here in Turkey.”
Despite shifts in flooring preferences worldwide, Saurer remains confident in the long-term stability of the carpet industry. While hard flooring continues to gain share in certain regions, carpets are expected to maintain a stable and significant portion of the overall flooring business.
“I do not see carpets losing their relevance,” Pohlmann concluded. “It will remain a stable part of the global flooring market.”
With its new DTY-focused machine and continued emphasis on customer proximity, Saurer Technologies signals that innovation in yarn processing remains central to the future of carpet manufacturing.
