Discover Lille: France’s Hidden Gem
Lille, a charming city in the north of France, captivates its visitors with a rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture.
Wander cobbled streets lined with 17th-century brick houses in Vieux Lille, the enchanting old town. Marvel at the ornate La Vieille Bourse, an old stock exchange turned lively market. Ascend the belfry, a UNESCO treasure, for breathtaking city views.
Lille’s warmth extends beyond its architecture – friendly locals and a vibrant cafe culture ensure an unforgettable French experience.
Lille is an hour’s train ride from Paris with the Lille Flanders train station. Via the Eurostar at Lille Europe, Lille is also a gateway to London. Both stations are easy walking distance from the event venue (450m).
More inspiration at IWTO Congress 2025!
Wool Industry Flocks to France: 2025 IWTO Congress Lands in Lille
Weaving a perfect fit between past and present, Lille, France, will be the venue for the 94th IWTO Congress, 20-22 May, 2025. This historic city, steeped in a rich textile history, will provide a fitting backdrop for wool industry leaders and enthusiasts to gather.
During our three days together, we’ll explore the exciting challenges and opportunities facing the wool industry, working together to shape a vibrant future for wool. Get ready for dynamic working groups, insightful presentations from a diverse range of industry leaders, and a chance to connect with fellow enthusiasts.
From luxury fashion to cutting-edge sportswear, carpets to innovative processing, our speakers will offer a wide spectrum of perspectives. We’ll delve into everything from sustainable wool growing and traceability to exciting new applications for wool. Experts will also share their knowledge on global consumer trends, economic forces, upcoming legislation, and the geopolitical landscape, giving you a complete picture of the wool industry today.
Leave Lille informed, inspired, and ready to contribute to a brighter future for this incredible fibre.
Working group and committee meetings take place 19 May. Delegates may also choose to enjoy three optional extra excursions, including a Wool River Cruise in Paris coordinated by Woolmark on 23 May.
Our venue is the Palais de la Bourse at the CCI de Lille, on the Place de Théâtre, one of the landmarks of Lille’s city centre. Find accommodation options here.
For partners, we have some amazing excursions lined up!
Discover the programme, registration info and more at IWTO Congress 2025.
About the IWTO and the 94th annual Congress
The International Wool Textile Organisation is the global authority for standards in the wool textile industry. Since 1930, IWTO has represented the collected interests of the global wool trade.
Each year, the IWTO brings the global wool textile industry together at its Congress. This event highlights the work of local wool industries and opens the stage for knowledge sharing and networking.
Find the programme and all event information on IWTO Congress 2025.
We are pleased to offer you a selection of accommodation options here. Hotels include: Novotel Suites Lille Europe, Novotel Grans Place, Mercure Grand Place, Grand Hotel Bellevue, Hotel Art Deco Euralille, and seven hotels in the Hotels de Lille Group.
Not yet a Member? Don’t miss out on the Member Rate for Congress
Benefit from a member rate for all IWTO events and more: inquire about IWTO membership today.
In-person registration includes:
- Access to Congress Sessions
- Daily Lunches and Coffee Breaks
- Event App
- Simultaneous interpretation (English & Chinese) in main plenary
- Welcome Reception & Walking Dinner on the Monday evening
- Formal Dinner on the Wednesday evening
- Wool Sports: Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday mornings
- Delegate Bag
- Access to optional Social Events: Visit to the Commonwealth War Graves Commission & Military Cemetery and Wool River Cruise in Paris with retail speakers on the River Seine, coordinated by Woolmark
Online registration includes:
- Congress Sessions online in realtime and recording
- Event App
- Simultaneous interpretation (English & Chinese) in main plenary and online
- Access to presentations after the event
Visit IWTO Congress 2025 for more details.
Congress Partners
Support from MEL (European Metropolis of Lille)