In this special podcast series, we speak to the winners of the WTiN Innovate Textile Awards 2025.

World Textile Information Network (WTiN) is thrilled to announce the winners of the Innovate Textile Awards 2025. In this special podcast series we speak with the winners of the awards about the challenges, possibilities and successes of innovation within the textile industry. 

In the second episode, we are joined by Alexander Grüner, global business development manager, emtec Electronic. Emtec Electronic won the Changemakers award for Tactile Sensation Analyser and cloud-based Virtual Haptic Library.

The emtec TSA Tactile Sensation Analyser evaluates parameters such as surface softness, surface smoothness, stretch and recovery, thermo-haptic properties, friction, and crumple or drape behaviour. This level of detailed analysis allows textile manufacturers to maintain the highest standards of quality and comfort in their products.

One of the standout features of the updated TSA device is its integration with the cloud-based Virtual Haptic Library. Developed in collaboration with Black Swan Textiles, this innovative online database digitises and categorises TSA sample data, making it accessible to authorized personnel worldwide in real-time.

Grüner speaks about the company’s development and journey. He details how it started out in the pulp and paper industry but how interest from manufacturers including the likes of Lenzing opened doors for emtec in the textile space. 

You can learn more about emtec Electronic at  emtec-electronic.de. 

WTiN announced the winners in a virtual ceremony on 5 December 2025, which you can now watch on demand at WTiN.com.