AUNDE and PreZero agree on strategic cooperation in textile recycling
On 6 October 2025, AUNDE and PreZero signed a contractual agreement for the joint development and operation of an innovative textile recycling plant. The aim of the cooperation is to recycle polyester-containing textile waste and produce high-quality recycled polyester granules.
With the planned joint venture, both companies are sending a strong signal for greater sustainability in the textile industry. The new recycling plant is scheduled to go into operation in 2026 and will address a relevant problem in the industry: while the production of polyester fibres is continuously increasing worldwide, around 99% of recycled polyester fibres are currently based on PET bottle flakes.
As PET bottles are already used efficiently in a closed loop in the packaging industry, there is competition for this valuable resource, as the textile industry also needs it for its polyester fibres. The solution envisaged by AUNDE and PreZero offers a real alternative for the future: the material recycling of textile waste can be used to produce polyester granules that serve as a substitute for PET bottle flakes and can be fed directly into the production of new polyester fibres. This enables a closed recycling loop within the textile industry.
With this cooperation, we are laying the foundation for more sustainable textile production and making an important contribution to the circular economy,’ the companies jointly explain.
Peter Bolten, CEO of the AUNDE Group, emphasises:
"As an international textile manufacturer for the automotive industry, we see it as our responsibility to actively help shape sustainable solutions. The cooperation with PreZero is a significant step towards keeping textile materials in circulation while reducing our dependence on PET bottles. Our goal is to set a new standard in textile recycling with this plant."
Ronald Bornée, member of the management board of PreZero Germany, underlines the groundbreaking significance: ‘We are delighted to be working with AUNDE to achieve an important milestone in textile recycling. True to one of our values, we will take the lead and create a solution for textile waste from industry and commerce, thereby strengthening the circular economy in Germany and Europe.’
About the AUNDE Group
The AUNDE Group has a broad international presence. With over 127 production sites in 29 countries and more than 22,000 employees worldwide, the company has a strong global presence. The group includes the brands AUNDE, ISRINGHAUSEN, FEHRER and REINERT. They stand for the highest quality, innovative strength and sustainable solutions. As a leading premium manufacturer, the AUNDE Group supplies the mobility industry with automotive textiles/leather, vehicle seats, technical springs, foam moulded parts, interior and composite components. The joint venture partner in this strategic cooperation is the AUNDE brand, the group's textile manufacturer.
About PreZero
As a full-service environmental service provider with around 4,800 employees, 120 locations and approximately 1,800 vehicles in Germany alone, PreZero Germany promotes a functioning circular economy with a wide range of services. These services range from waste management and recycling solutions to effective sustainability consulting. True to its name, PreZero strives to be a pioneer in the industry as a driver of innovation in order to bring about positive change for the environment and society. The goal: to minimise all avoidable waste in line with the zero waste approach, thereby conserving natural resources and maximising recycling and reuse.