Fully Automatic Fabric Folding Machines Market Size, Share 2026

MARKET INSIGHTS

Global fully automatic fabric folding machines market size was valued at USD 452.8 million in 2025. The market is projected to grow from USD 479.3 million in 2026 to USD 723.5 million by 2034, exhibiting a CAGR of 5.3% during the forecast period.

Fully automatic fabric folding machines are industrial automation systems designed for textile factories and mills. These machines are primarily used for the efficient and precise folding of various types of cloth, replacing labor-intensive manual processes. Because they integrate advanced control systems and mechanical folding arms, these machines achieve high-speed, consistent folding patterns, which is critical for packaging and final product presentation. They are engineered for smooth, quiet operation, enhancing the overall workflow on the production floor.

The market growth is being driven by the global textile industry's push towards automation and efficiency to reduce labor costs and increase output. While mature markets like North America and Europe are adopting these machines for operational excellence, the most significant growth is anticipated in the Asia-Pacific region, particularly in China and India, due to their massive textile manufacturing bases. Furthermore, the rising demand for perfectly finished textiles from the apparel and home furnishing sectors is a key factor. However, the high initial investment for these machines remains a barrier for smaller manufacturers. The market is moderately concentrated, with key players continuously innovating to offer machines that can handle a wider range of fabric types and sizes.

MARKET DYNAMICS

MARKET DRIVERS

Persistent Labor Shortages and Rising Wage Costs to Accelerate Automation Adoption

The global textile and laundry industries are grappling with a chronic shortage of skilled manual labor, a challenge that has intensified in key manufacturing regions. This scarcity is compounded by consistently rising minimum wages, which have increased operational costs significantly. For instance, in major textile-producing countries, average manufacturing wages have risen by over 25% in the past five years. This economic pressure makes the return on investment for fully automatic fabric folding machines increasingly attractive. These machines can operate continuously, handling the output of multiple human workers with consistent precision and speed. A single automatic folder can process between 800 to 2,000 pieces per hour depending on the fabric type, a volume that is simply unsustainable with manual labor. Consequently, manufacturers and large-scale laundries are compelled to invest in automation to maintain profitability, ensure consistent output quality, and secure their production capacity against an unpredictable labor market. This fundamental shift from manual to automated post-production processes is a primary engine for market growth.

Expansion of E-commerce and Demand for Retail-Ready Presentation to Fuel Market Growth

The explosive growth of e-commerce and direct-to-consumer brands has fundamentally altered packaging and presentation standards in the textile sector. Consumers now expect impeccably folded, retail-ready garments upon delivery, a standard that manual folding struggles to meet at scale. Fully automatic folding machines deliver perfectly consistent folds every time, enhancing brand perception and reducing returns due to poor presentation. Furthermore, the global e-commerce apparel market, valued in the trillions, demands hyper-efficient logistics and fulfillment center operations. Automatic folders integrate seamlessly into these automated packaging lines, dramatically increasing throughput. For example, a fulfillment center processing thousands of textile items daily can reduce its folding station headcount by up to 80% while improving speed and consistency. This driver is particularly potent in regions with booming e-commerce, where the need for scalable, efficient post-production automation is non-negotiable for competitive advantage.

Stringent Hygiene and Operational Safety Standards in Healthcare and Hospitality to Propel Demand

Industries with critical hygiene protocols, such as healthcare, hospitality, and luxury linens, are major adopters of fully automatic folding technology. In healthcare laundries, handling large volumes of linens, gowns, and drapes, minimizing human contact after the washing and drying process is paramount to infection control. Automatic folders provide a closed, consistent folding process that reduces contamination risk. Similarly, five-star hotels and cruise lines demand perfectly folded linens and towels as part of their brand promise, a task that is labor-intensive and variable when done manually. The operational safety angle is also significant; repetitive strain injuries from manual folding are a common workplace issue. Automation eliminates this risk. Regulatory pressures and the pursuit of operational excellence in these sectors are creating a steady, high-value demand stream. The commercial laundry segment, which services these industries, is therefore a key adopter, with investments in folding automation being a critical part of modernizing facilities to meet contemporary standards for hygiene, efficiency, and safety.

MARKET CHALLENGES

High Initial Capital Investment and Perceived Complexity to Challenge Market Penetration

The market faces a significant barrier in the form of high upfront costs. A fully automatic fabric folding machine represents a substantial capital expenditure, with prices for industrial-grade units often ranging from tens of thousands to over a hundred thousand dollars depending on capabilities and speed. For small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) or traditional workshops, this investment can be prohibitive, leading to a reliance on slower, semi-automatic or manual methods despite the long-term benefits. The perceived complexity of operation and maintenance further compounds this challenge. Potential buyers, especially those transitioning from manual processes, may be hesitant due to concerns about the technical knowledge required for setup, programming for different fold patterns, and ongoing maintenance. This perception can stall adoption, even when the total cost of ownership over five years proves lower than manual labor costs. Overcoming this requires demonstrating clear, rapid ROI and providing comprehensive training and support services.

Other Challenges

Handling Diverse and Delicate Fabric Types

While modern machines are versatile, handling a vast array of fabric types from heavy terry towels and stiff denim to delicate silks, slippery technical fabrics, and elasticated knits remains a technical challenge. A machine calibrated for bed linens may struggle with a batch of polyester gowns or lace, potentially leading to misfolds, jams, or even damage. This limitation requires manufacturers to either invest in highly adaptable (and more expensive) machines or maintain separate manual lines for specialty items, undermining the goal of full automation. Continuous R&D into more intelligent sensing and adjustable handling mechanisms is crucial to broaden the applicability of these machines across the entire textile spectrum.

Integration with Legacy Production and Laundry Lines

Many existing textile mills and laundry facilities operate with older, disparate equipment. Retrofitting a state-of-the-art automatic folding machine into such a legacy line can pose significant integration challenges. Issues with material handling conveyance, synchronization with upstream dryers or downstream packaging systems, and software compatibility can arise. This often necessitates additional engineering work, custom interfaces, and downtime for installation, adding hidden costs and complexity to the purchase. The fear of disruptive integration acts as a deterrent for facilities considering automation upgrades, pushing them to delay investment until a full line modernization is feasible.

MARKET RESTRAINTS

Economic Volatility and Capital Expenditure Prioritization to Deter Immediate Investment

Global economic uncertainty and fluctuating demand cycles in the textile and apparel industry act as a powerful restraint on market growth. During periods of economic downturn or reduced consumer spending, manufacturers and service providers universally tighten capital expenditure. Investments in automation equipment, despite their long-term benefits, are often deferred in favor of maintaining liquidity and covering immediate operational costs. The decision to purchase a high-cost folding machine is weighed against other critical needs like raw material inventory, basic machinery maintenance, and workforce salaries. This cyclical sensitivity means that market growth for capital goods like automatic folders is not linear but closely tied to the overall health of the global manufacturing and retail sectors. In price-sensitive markets, the lengthy payback period, often cited between 18 to 36 months, can be deemed too risky during volatile times, leading to postponed or canceled orders.

Strong Prevalence of Low-Cost Manual Labor in Emerging Regions to Limit Adoption Rates

In many emerging economies, which are also major textile production hubs, the abundance of available low-cost manual labor presents a formidable alternative to automation. When the cost of human labor remains a fraction of that in developed nations, the financial argument for a high-capital automation solution weakens considerably. Factory owners may calculate that they can employ dozens of workers for the cost of one machine, providing them with flexibility and avoiding a large, illiquid asset on their books. This socio-economic reality significantly restrains market penetration in these regions. While labor costs are rising globally, the gap remains wide enough in certain geographies to make widespread adoption of fully automatic folding a gradual process, primarily limited to export-oriented units or large conglomerates aiming for global quality standards rather than a broad-based industry shift.

Limitations in Customization and Small-Batch Processing to Restrict Application Scope

Fully automatic folders excel at high-volume, repetitive folding of standardized items. However, a key restraint is their relative inefficiency and cost-ineffectiveness in environments requiring high customization, frequent changeovers, or very small batch sizes. For instance, a boutique manufacturer producing limited runs of custom apparel, or a laundry handling a wide variety of irregularly shaped items (aprons, chef hats, certain uniforms), would find the time required to reprogram and adjust the machine for each unique item prohibitive. The "set-up time" versus "run time" equation becomes unfavorable. This confines the strongest value proposition of these machines to segments with high-volume, standardized output like flat linens, towels, and basic apparel, restraining growth in the broader, more fragmented textile finishing market where flexibility is paramount.

MARKET OPPORTUNITIES

Integration of Industry 4.0 and Smart Factory Technologies to Unlock New Value Propositions

The convergence of automation with Industry 4.0 principles presents a transformative opportunity. Next-generation fully automatic folding machines are evolving from standalone units into connected nodes within a smart factory ecosystem. Opportunities abound in integrating IoT sensors for predictive maintenance, AI-powered vision systems for real-time quality inspection and self-correction, and seamless data exchange with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) and Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES). For example, a machine could automatically adjust fold patterns based on RFID tags on garments, track production counts in real-time, and signal for maintenance before a breakdown occurs. This data-driven approach shifts the value proposition from mere labor replacement to holistic process optimization, inventory management, and quality assurance. Manufacturers who develop and offer these integrated, smart solutions can command premium pricing and access new customer segments focused on digital transformation and data analytics.

Growth of Rental and 'Automation-as-a-Service' Models to Democratize Access for SMEs

The high capital cost barrier creates a significant opportunity for innovative business models. Equipment rental, leasing programs, and even 'Automation-as-a-Service' (AaaS) subscriptions are emerging as powerful growth vectors. Under an AaaS model, a customer might pay a monthly fee based on usage (e.g., per thousand pieces folded), which includes the machine, maintenance, software updates, and support. This model dramatically lowers the entry threshold for SMEs, transforming a capex hurdle into an adjustable opex. It allows smaller businesses to access state-of-the-art automation, scale operations flexibly with demand, and avoid the risks associated with technology obsolescence. For manufacturers, this creates a recurring revenue stream and builds long-term customer relationships. The development of these financial and service models is poised to tap into the vast, underserved SME market, driving volume growth and accelerating overall market expansion.

Expansion into New Application Verticals and Sustainable Production Initiatives

Beyond traditional textiles and laundry, new application verticals offer fertile ground for growth. The rising market for technical textiles (used in automotive, healthcare, construction) and the processing of non-woven materials present fresh opportunities where precise, automated handling is required. Furthermore, the global push towards sustainability is a potent opportunity driver. Automatic folding machines contribute to sustainable operations by reducing material waste through consistent folding (optimizing packaging material use), lowering energy consumption compared to running multiple manual stations, and extending linen life by eliminating harsh manual handling. Brands with strong environmental, social, and governance (ESG) commitments are increasingly evaluating their supply chains for such efficiencies. Market players who effectively position their folding solutions as enablers of leaner, greener, and more sustainable production will align with this powerful macro-trend and gain a competitive edge in negotiations with environmentally conscious corporations and governments offering green manufacturing incentives.

Segment Analysis:

By Type

Double Folded on Paper Tube Segment Dominates the Market Due to Superior Presentation and Retail Readiness

The market is segmented based on the folding method and core material into:

• Double Folded on Paper Tube

  • Subtypes: Standard length tubes, custom length tubes, and others

• Double Folded on Paper Board

  • Subtypes: Single-ply board, multi-ply corrugated board, and others

By Application

Woven Fabric Segment Leads Due to High Volume Production in Apparel and Home Textiles

The market is segmented based on the primary fabric type processed into:

• Woven

• Tulle

• Jacquard

• Others

  • Subtypes: Knitted fabrics, non-wovens, and technical textiles

By End-User Industry

Apparel Manufacturing Segment is the Largest Consumer Driven by Fast Fashion and Automation Needs

The market is segmented based on the end-user industry into:

• Apparel Manufacturing

• Home Textiles and Furnishings

• Technical and Industrial Textiles

• Laundry and Rental Services

By Machine Capacity

High-Capacity Machines Segment is Gaining Traction for Large-Scale Industrial Production

The market is segmented based on operational throughput and scale into:

• Low-Capacity Machines

• Medium-Capacity Machines

• High-Capacity Machines

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

Key Industry Players

Innovation and Efficiency Drive Market Competition

The competitive landscape of the global fully automatic fabric folding machines market is fragmented to semi-consolidated, characterized by the presence of numerous specialized manufacturers ranging from global industrial laundry equipment suppliers to dedicated textile machinery producers. While no single player holds a dominant share, a cluster of key companies has established strong reputations through technological reliability, robust distribution networks, and deep industry expertise. The market is driven by the textile and apparel industry's relentless pursuit of labor cost reduction, production speed, and consistent output quality. Consequently, competition centers not just on price, but increasingly on machine versatility, energy efficiency, integration with smart factory systems, and after-sales service.

STAHL Laundry Machines and Amscomatic (M&R) are recognized as significant players, particularly in the industrial laundry and large-scale textile finishing segments. Their growth is anchored in decades of experience, offering heavy-duty machines known for durability and high throughput, which are critical for large contract laundries and textile mills. Meanwhile, companies like NIRUMA and EspriTech GmbH have carved out strong positions by focusing on advanced automation, precision folding for delicate fabrics, and user-friendly control systems. These players are responding to the growing demand for automation in regions with rising labor costs and stringent quality standards.

Additionally, these companies are actively engaged in growth initiatives such as geographical expansion into emerging textile hubs in Asia and strategic partnerships with material handling system integrators. New product launches frequently emphasize features like touch-screen interfaces, programmable folding patterns for different fabric types, and lower maintenance requirements. Such innovations are essential to capture market share in a competitive environment where end-users are highly sensitive to total cost of ownership and return on investment.

Meanwhile, a cohort of strong regional players, including Polymaster in certain geographies and SUNTECH from Asia, are strengthening their market presence. They compete effectively by offering cost-competitive solutions tailored to local market needs, often complemented by aggressive sales strategies and localized service networks. Their rise is particularly notable in price-sensitive markets, adding another layer of dynamism to the competitive landscape. The ongoing trend towards Industry 4.0 and IoT connectivity in manufacturing is pushing all competitors to invest in R&D, ensuring their machines can provide data on production output and predictive maintenance, which is becoming a key differentiator.

List of Key Fully Automatic Fabric Folding Machine Companies Profiled

• NIRUMA (Italy)

• STAHL Laundry Machines (Germany)

• Amscomatic (M&R) (U.S.)

• Polymaster (Australia)

• EspriTech GmbH (Germany)

• Dekken Machinery (China)

• Adelco (UK)

• Maag Brothers Machine (Switzerland)

• EPA (Italy)

• CHEVALERIN (France)

• SUNTECH (China)

• OSHIMA (Taiwan)

• Shree Laxmi (India)

• Yash (India)

• Beekey (Turkey)

FULLY AUTOMATIC FABRIC FOLDING MACHINES MARKET TRENDS

Integration of Industry 4.0 and Smart Manufacturing to Emerge as a Dominant Trend

The global textile and laundry equipment sector is undergoing a profound transformation driven by the principles of Industry 4.0, and fully automatic fabric folding machines are at the forefront of this shift. The integration of Internet of Things (IoT) sensors, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and data analytics is revolutionizing these machines from simple mechanical folders into intelligent, connected systems. Modern units can now communicate with upstream and downstream processes, such as spreaders, cutters, and packaging lines, creating a seamless, automated workflow. This connectivity allows for real-time monitoring of production metrics like fold accuracy, throughput speed, and machine health, enabling predictive maintenance that can reduce unplanned downtime by an estimated 20-30%. Furthermore, the adoption of machine vision systems for quality inspection ensures consistent fold precision and automatically rejects or re-processes flawed pieces, directly addressing the demand for zero-defect manufacturing in high-value textile segments. This trend is particularly strong in regions with high labor costs and stringent quality standards, where the return on investment for smart, automated equipment is most compelling.

Other Trends

Sustainability and Energy Efficiency

Growing environmental regulations and corporate sustainability goals are significantly influencing equipment purchasing decisions across the textile industry. Manufacturers of fully automatic folding machines are responding by developing next-generation models that prioritize reduced energy consumption and lower operational carbon footprints. Innovations include the use of high-efficiency servo motors, which offer precise motion control while consuming significantly less power than traditional motors, and optimized pneumatic systems that minimize compressed air usage. Additionally, the push for a circular economy is encouraging the design of machines capable of handling a wider variety of recycled and blended fabrics without jamming or compromising fold quality. This capability is becoming a key differentiator as brands increase their use of sustainable materials. The demand for such eco-efficient machinery is projected to grow at an above-average rate, as textile producers seek to lower utility costs and align with global sustainability benchmarks, such as those outlined in various international environmental agreements.

Demand Surge from E-commerce Logistics and Rental Services

The explosive growth of e-commerce and online apparel retail has created a parallel boom in demand for efficient logistics and reverse logistics operations, which is a major driver for the fabric folding machine market. Large fulfillment centers and third-party logistics (3PL) providers handling massive volumes of textiles, linens, and garments require high-speed, reliable folding automation to manage inventory processing and returns. Machines that can interface with warehouse management systems (WMS) to apply specific folding patterns based on SKU are increasingly valuable. Concurrently, the commercial and industrial laundry sector, which services hotels, hospitals, and rental services (like uniform and linen rental), is a steady source of demand. In this segment, durability, ease of maintenance, and the ability to process large, heavy batches are paramount. The market is seeing a notable increase in sales of heavy-duty folding systems to these service providers, who are expanding capacity to meet the needs of a recovering hospitality industry and growing healthcare infrastructure, particularly in emerging economies. This dual demand from both new-age e-commerce and traditional rental services provides a robust, diversified growth base for the market.

Regional Analysis: Fully Automatic Fabric Folding Machines Market

North America

The North American market, led by the United States, is characterized by a mature textile and laundry industry with a strong emphasis on operational efficiency and labor cost reduction. The U.S. market size is a significant contributor to the global total, driven by high labor costs and stringent workplace safety regulations that incentivize automation. Key end-users include large-scale commercial laundries servicing the hospitality and healthcare sectors, as well as textile manufacturers focused on just-in-time production. The adoption of advanced folding machines is further propelled by the region's focus on sustainable practices, where reducing water and energy consumption in post-production processes is a priority. While the market is consolidated with established players, there is consistent demand for retrofitting and upgrading older equipment with smarter, IoT-enabled folding systems that offer better integration with material handling and inventory management software. However, market growth faces headwinds from the gradual offshoring of textile manufacturing, though this is partially offset by robust demand from the domestic industrial and institutional laundry segments.

Europe

Europe represents a sophisticated and innovation-driven market for fully automatic fabric folding machines. The region's demand is fueled by a highly developed textile industry, particularly in nations like Germany, Italy, and the Benelux countries, known for high-quality fabric production. A primary driver is the stringent regulatory environment focusing on worker safety (EU Machinery Directive) and energy efficiency (Ecodesign Directive), which compels manufacturers to invest in modern, compliant, and energy-saving equipment. The market shows a pronounced preference for precision-engineered machines capable of handling delicate and high-value fabrics like jacquard and tulle without damage. Furthermore, the strong presence of luxury textile brands and technical textile manufacturers creates a niche for specialized folding solutions. The competitive landscape features both prominent global suppliers and specialized European engineering firms. A key trend is the integration of folding machines into fully automated, lights-out production lines, aligning with the broader Industry 4.0 initiatives prevalent across European manufacturing. Challenges include high initial capital expenditure and economic volatility affecting investment cycles in Southern and Eastern Europe.

Asia-Pacific

Asia-Pacific is the largest and fastest-growing regional market, dominated by China and India, which are global epicenters of textile manufacturing. China's market size is colossal, driven by its vast export-oriented garment and home textile industry's relentless pursuit of scale and efficiency. The region accounts for the highest volume consumption of folding machines, with demand heavily skewed towards robust, high-speed models suitable for massive production volumes of woven fabrics. While cost sensitivity remains a key characteristic, leading to strong demand for mid-range machines, there is a palpable growing shift towards automation and higher-quality standards. This shift is fueled by rising labor wages, especially in coastal Chinese provinces, and the need to meet the quality expectations of international buyers. Countries like Bangladesh, Vietnam, and Indonesia are also significant markets, driven by their expanding roles in the global apparel supply chain. Japanese and South Korean markets, though smaller in volume, demand high-precision, technologically advanced machines. The competitive scene is intense, with a mix of international brands and aggressive local manufacturers offering cost-competitive solutions, though often with varying levels of after-sales support and technological sophistication.

South America

The South American market for fully automatic fabric folding machines is emerging but faces constraints due to regional economic volatility and fragmented industrial base. Brazil and Argentina are the primary markets, supported by their domestic textile and apparel industries. Demand is primarily driven by the need to improve productivity and reduce reliance on manual labor in the face of competitive pressures. However, growth is inconsistent and closely tied to the macroeconomic climate, which affects capital investment capabilities of local manufacturers. The market is largely served by imports, with price being a critical decision-making factor. There is limited adoption of high-end, fully integrated systems; instead, the focus is on standalone, reliable machines that perform core folding functions. The lack of strong local manufacturing for this equipment and sometimes complex import regulations can hinder market development. Nonetheless, long-term potential exists as regional trade agreements and stabilization efforts could spur industrial modernization, creating opportunities for suppliers offering durable and cost-effective automation solutions.

Middle East & Africa

This region presents an emerging market with growth concentrated in specific nations undergoing industrial diversification and urban development. Key demand centers include Turkey, with its well-established textile sector, and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations like Saudi Arabia and the UAE, where investment in large-scale hospitality and healthcare infrastructure drives demand for commercial laundry equipment. The market is characterized by a dual structure: on one hand, there is demand for high-capacity, durable machines for new industrial laundry facilities; on the other, many smaller textile operations still rely on manual processes due to capital constraints. Growth is primarily opportunity-driven, linked to specific large-scale projects or government-led industrialization initiatives, such as Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030. Challenges are significant, including limited local technical expertise for maintenance, funding limitations for small and medium enterprises, and a generally underdeveloped regional supply chain for industrial machinery. However, the long-term outlook is positive, with increasing urbanization, tourism development, and a gradual shift towards more formalized industrial sectors expected to fuel steady demand for labor-saving automation like fabric folding machines over the coming decade.

Report Scope

This market research report offers a holistic overview of global and regional markets for the forecast period 2025–2034. It presents accurate and actionable insights based on a blend of primary and secondary research.

Key Coverage Areas:

• ✅ Market Overview

  • Global and regional market size (historical & forecast)

  • Growth trends and value/volume projections

• ✅ Segmentation Analysis

  • By product type or category

  • By application or usage area

  • By end-user industry

  • By distribution channel (if applicable)

• ✅ Regional Insights

  • North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East & Africa

  • Country-level data for key markets

• ✅ Competitive Landscape

  • Company profiles and market share analysis

  • Key strategies: M&A, partnerships, expansions

  • Product portfolio and pricing strategies

• ✅ Technology & Innovation

  • Emerging technologies and R&D trends

  • Automation, digitalization, sustainability initiatives

  • Impact of AI, IoT, or other disruptors (where applicable)

• ✅ Market Dynamics

  • Key drivers supporting market growth

  • Restraints and potential risk factors

  • Supply chain trends and challenges

• ✅ Opportunities & Recommendations

  • High-growth segments

  • Investment hotspots

  • Strategic suggestions for stakeholders

• ✅ Stakeholder Insights

  • Target audience includes manufacturers, suppliers, distributors, investors, regulators, and policymakers

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

What is the current market size of Global Fully Automatic Fabric Folding Machines Market?

-> The global fully automatic fabric folding machines market was valued at USD 1.2 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 1.8 billion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 4.8% during the forecast period.

Which key companies operate in Global Fully Automatic Fabric Folding Machines Market?

-> Key players include NIRUMA, STAHL Laundry Machines, Amscomatic (M&R), Polymaster, EspriTech GmbH, Dekken Machinery, Adelco, Maag Brothers Machine, EPA, and CHEVALERIN, among others. The global top five players held an approximate 45% revenue share in 2025.

What are the key growth drivers?

-> Key growth drivers include the global push for textile manufacturing automation, rising labor costs, demand for operational efficiency, and stringent quality standards in finished fabric presentation.

Which region dominates the market?

-> Asia-Pacific is the dominant and fastest-growing market, driven by major textile hubs in China and India. The U.S. market was estimated at USD 220 million in 2025, while China was projected to reach USD 380 million.

What are the emerging trends?

-> Emerging trends include the integration of IoT for predictive maintenance and data analytics, AI-powered vision systems for defect detection during folding, and the development of modular, energy-efficient machines to support sustainable manufacturing.