The annual conference will unite the absorbent hygiene supply chain for education, innovation and networking in Houston.
Professionals from across the absorbent hygiene products supply chain will gather in Houston this fall for Hygienix 2026, an annual conference focused on the technologies, materials, consumer trends and market forces shaping the future of the industry.
Organized by Cary, N.C.-based INDA, the Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry, Hygienix will take place November 16-19 at the Hyatt Regency Houston. The event is expected to bring together manufacturers, material and equipment suppliers, product developers, researchers, entrepreneurs, and other business leaders serving the global absorbent hygiene market.
“Hygienix 2026 offers an exceptional program of industry developments and insights, as well as networking and learning opportunities, that address the challenges and opportunities within the absorbent hygiene and personal care markets,” said INDA President and CEO Tony Fragnito. “The pre-conference professional development courses provide the opportunity for registrants to build or expand their knowledge before the conference even begins. The conference program and networking will enhance those experiences, with industry experts addressing market dynamics and attendees establishing key connections and focused conversations throughout the week.”
Program Highlights
This year’s program will examine a wide range of issues influencing the development and commercialization of absorbent hygiene products. Key subject areas include market intelligence and global economics, the regulatory and trade environment, sustainability and end-of-life solutions, and innovation in products, materials and manufacturing processes. Presentations will also explore changing consumer expectations and emerging technologies driving the industry forward.
The event begins Monday, November 16, with three optional, hands-on workshops. “Inside the Diaper Market” will examine innovations and trends shaping the industry from marketing and technology to product performance. “Inside Sustainable Hygiene” will address sustainable technologies and the support needed to substantiate sustainability claims. A third workshop, “Inside the Absorbent Core,” will take a systems-based look at fluid control in absorbent hygiene core structures. The workshops require separate registration.
The Hygienix Welcome Reception will be held Monday evening. Open to all attendees, the reception offers the chance to socialize face-to-face in a setting designed for conversation and connection.
Conference presentations run Tuesday through Thursday. In addition to the educational program, attendees will have the opportunity to meet suppliers and view new products and services during tabletop exhibits and evening receptions on Tuesday and Wednesday. Nearly 20 companies are also expected to participate in the event’s Lightning Talks, where they have the chance to deliver a fast-paced, five-minute presentation on new technologies and commercial developments.
Awards And Recognition
A central feature of the conference is the Hygienix Innovation Award, which recognizes a new product or technology making a significant contribution to the absorbent hygiene sector. Finalists will present their innovations on Tuesday, November 17, with the winner announced at the close of the event on Thursday. The 2025 award went to Confitex Technology Ltd. for its washable nonwoven sanitary pads, developed to offer a scalable reusable option without superabsorbent polymers.
Hygienix will also recognize two longtime industry contributors. Carl Cucuzza and Pricie Hanna have been selected to receive INDA Lifetime Service Awards for their work advancing the nonwovens industry and supporting the association. The awards will be presented Tuesday afternoon.
“INDA is pleased that we will recognize Carl Cucuzza and Pricie Hanna with INDA Lifetime Service Awards,” noted Fragnito. “Their decades of service, leadership, and commitment to INDA and the nonwovens industry have made a lasting impact. It will be my honor to celebrate their contributions at Hygienix.”
Beyond the formal program, networking will remain a major component of Hygienix. Receptions, exhibits, breaks and organized business activities are designed to help attendees connect with customers, suppliers, potential partners and industry colleagues.
For more information about Hygienix™ 2026, please visit hygienix.org.
