ETSA News

ETSA announces leadership transition: Hartmut Engler appointed as Chairman and Björn Scheel named Treasurer

[Brussels, 17/06/2026] - The European Textile Service Association (ETSA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Hartmut Engler (CWS Workwear) as the new Chairman of ETSA. The ETSA Board also welcomes Björn Scheel (MEWA) as the Association's new Treasurer.

Mr Engler succeeds Dr Thomas Neyers (Alsco), who has successfully led ETSA as Chairman of the ETSA Board. Mr Engler will assume his role for a three-year term starting from June 2026 to June 2029.

Hartmut Engler has served as ETSA Treasurer since June 2023 and brings more than 25 years of experience in the service sector. He has been Chief Executive Officer of CWS Workwear since 2021 and has played an active role in advancing ETSA's strategic priorities and promoting the textile services industry across Europe.

Harmut Engler explained: "I am honored to take on the role of Chairman of ETSA. Together with our members, I look forward to building on the association's strong foundations and advancing the interests of the European textile services industry."

Mr Engler commented: "As Europe pursues its sustainability and industrial policy goals, ETSA will work to ensure that the voice of the textile services industry is heard. Well-designed legislation can accelerate the transition to a more circular economy, and textile services are uniquely positioned to help deliver these objectives."

The ETSA Board also welcomes Björn Scheel as the Association's new Treasurer. Bringing extensive experience in the textile services industry, Björn joins the ETSA leadership team. Bjoern is confident that under Hartmut Engler's leadership, the association will continue to thrive and support its members, fostering innovation, sustainability and resilience throughout the European textile services industry and the important changes taking place at geo-political level.

Speaking of his departure, Dr Thomas Neyers said: "I would like to thank the Board, the Secretariat and our members for their trust, commitment and collaboration over the past years. I am confident that under Hartmut & Bjoern's new leadership, ETSA will continue to be a strong voice for our industry across Europe and beyond."

Dr Neyers added: "I am especially proud that ETSA has once again been recognized as a Climate Pact Ambassador and of the outstanding work delivered by our Working Groups over the past years. Whether on sustainability, environmental policy, technical matters or industry advocacy, our efforts have helped showcase the value of textile services and reinforced our industry's role as a trusted partner in delivering a more circular and sustainable Europe".

The entirety of the ETSA Secretariat and its members express their sincere gratitude to Dr Thomas Neyers for his leadership, dedication and commitment throughout his tenure as Chairman. His contributions have helped strengthen the association and support its members during a period of significant transformation for the textile services sector.

In the coming years, ETSA will continue working closely with members to address their needs and drive sustainable growth in the textile service sector. Together, ETSA members will continue to navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, from sustainability targets and circular economy initiatives to digitization, workforce development and industrial competitiveness.