Is artificial intelligence truly the game changer for the consumer goods industry? How are companies worldwide reacting to geopolitical uncertainties, new customs regimes, and regulatory requirements? The second global industry index for Ambiente surveys current developments in trade fair-relevant consumer goods segments and identifies challenges and opportunities. Featuring an interview with Yvonne Engelmann on how international contacts are established. by Messe Frankfurt

German trade fair venues are reporting record revenue figures for 2025. But 2026 will mark the first negative turning point since Covid. Exhibiting companies are cutting their trade fair budgets. How much pressure is the trade fair business model under? By Urs Seiler || July 30, 2026 Exhibitor feedback on the Hannover Messe. I hope you are enjoying your holiday. But trade fairs don't take a break, not even during the trade fair break. It would have been so nice to simply

Messe Frankfurt is establishing a presence in the rapidly growing trade fair market in Saudi Arabia with a subsidiary. "We want to seize the next wave of trade fairs," says Ted Bloom. Saudi Arabia's "Vision 2030" offers the ideal growth environment. By Urs Seiler || Riyadh, December 8, 2025 || Messe Frankfurt's representation for CH/Li | upcoming trade fairs of Messe Frankfurt. Opening of the Messe Frankfurt office in Riyadh, from left: Wolfgang Marzin, Chairman of the Boar

The Bürgenstock Resort has always been popular for private and MICE events, but it had reached its capacity limits. These have now been resolved with the impressive launch of the spectacular Event Domes under the motto "The Future of Experiences." It sets a significant benchmark for the Swiss MICE market. By Urs Seiler || July 27, 2026 On April 16, 2026, a MICE location unlike any other was inaugurated on the Bürgenstock, high above Lake Lucerne. England's famous poet D

In Shanghai China, just over one month before opening its doors, Pet Fair Asia 2026 has officially sold out, reaching a record-breaking 320,000 sqm of exhibition space and confirming its position as Asia's largest and most influential pet industry exhibition. by Archie Marshall || 24 July 2026 Taking place from 19–23 August 2026 in Shanghai, the 28th edition of Pet Fair Asia will welcome more than 2,600 exhibitors, including international companies and Chinese representatives

Until a few months ago, defense trade fairs like the European Defence Expo Eudex, which runs parallel to Security Essen, were politically and socially taboo. In light of the current geopolitical situation, this has now changed drastically. By Urs Seiler/Messe Essen || July 23, 2026 The security industry is undergoing profound change. Artificial intelligence is driving rapid innovation, and the protection of critical infrastructure is becoming increasingly important in light

Its location near the borders of Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein, and the fact that 20-30 percent of visitors come from Switzerland, make Interboot at the Friedrichshafen Exhibition Center a kind of Swiss home game. What sets it apart from other boat shows is that visitors can directly test boats and water sports equipment on the exhibition lake and in the Interboot harbor. By Urs Seiler || July 22, 2026 In eight halls, on the exhibition lake and in theIn

They say that big events cast their shadows before them, and it's only six months until it's that time again: With newcomers like Pelicano Expo, TorTer e-Design and Rentman, as well as returning exhibitors like beMatrix, Aluvision and ExpoFloor, the range of products and services offered by boe international at Messe Dortmund in the areas of exhibition stand construction, AV technology and event solutions is growing once again – a clear signal that the event industry will lau

What does the future of live communication look like when it's already a reality? Visitors to EXPOFORMER can experience the answer to this question in an impressive way at the brand-new show center in Embrach. By Urs Seiler || July 14, 2026 CEO Mario Huggler opens the EXPOFORMER Showcenter. Anyone investing money in a trade fair or congress appearance wants to see a return on their investment: more sales, new customers, new partners, and greater success. EXPOFORMER's brand-

2025 was a pivotal year for Palexpo: After the years of the COVID pandemic, the exhibition center is returning to stability, its program is shining in new splendor, significant structural improvements have been made, and ambitions for the future of events have been strengthened. by Palexpo || June 17, 2026 Palexpo confirms its successful trajectory with 99 events of regional and international significance, 705,777 visitors, and an economic impact of CHF 294 million. In a

Koelnmesse's record revenue of €455.5 million with over 8,000 (!) exhibitors at Anuga in fiscal year 2025 is attributable to strong trade fair and congress business in Cologne, growth abroad, a broad portfolio, and efficiency improvements. The heavy reliance on the trade fair cycle will lead to a decline in revenue figures in 2026. The economic impact amounts to €2.4 billion. by Koelnmesse/Urs Seiler || July 8, 2026 In the long term, Koelnmesse needs to expand its interna

The unabated growth of Korea as a MICE destination led to a record number of visitors in 2025, with around 50 percent more visitors than before the pandemic. The high-quality event centers are consistently recognized for their environmentally friendly design, featuring rainwater harvesting systems and solar technologies. The world-famous K-culture, with its K-pop and the Gangnam district in the capital city of Seoul, is also a major draw for MICE guests in Korea. By Urs Sei

Messe Frankfurt's revenue in 2026 will fall far short of forecasts due to unprecedented challenges, but the Covid debts will be repaid within three years. Messe Frankfurt will be climate-neutral by 2040. EuroBike is facing significant difficulties. And Heiko M. Stutzinger will succeed Detlef Braun. By Urs Seiler || June 25, 2026 || Representative of Messe Frankfurt for Switzerland and Liechtenstein Rarely has it been as clear as at the press conference of Messe Frankfurt on

The new Basilia trade fair, announced on June 18th by the MCH Group in partnership with Informa Markets PLC, with its evocative name, is not an attempt to resurrect the defunct, world-famous Baselworld watch fair. It is conceived entirely differently, and the major watch brands are unlikely to return to Basel from Watches & Wonders in Geneva. By Urs Seiler || June 22, 2026 Hall 2 of Messe Basel: Venue of Basilia It is striking that the Basilia Jewellery & Watch Fair focus

Attend free of charge: At GITEX AI EUROPE 2026, taking place in Berlin from 30 June to 1 July, more than 950 enterprises and startups, over 600 investors and 150 + speakers from more than 80 countries will gather as Europe's technology market is forecast to surpass €1.5 trillion and Berlin cements its position as one of the continent's most influential innovation hubs. by Archie Marshall || 19 June 2026 Europe is accelerating its bid to become a global artificial intelligence

Pet Fair Asia 2026 is placing sustainability firmly at the heart of the pet industry’s future with the launch of EcoPaws Asia, a new initiative developed in partnership with the Pet Sustainability Coalition (PSC) to spotlight environmentally responsible innovation, ESG progress, and sustainable manufacturing across Asia’s rapidly growing pet market. by Archie Marshall || 16 June 2026 Set to debut at Pet Fair Asia 2026 from 19–23 August 2026 at the Shanghai New International E

According to AUMA, the economic downturn is now, with a delay, also impacting the German trade fair industry and thus the exhibition stand construction sector. And the MCH Group is considering a major event in Basel. By Urs Seiler || June 15, 2026 Image: Koelnmesse, North Entrance. The Association of the German Trade Fair Industry (AUMA) forecasts the first quarter of 2026, a traditionally busy period for trade fairs, according to the latest figures from June 4, 2026. Exh

The integrated approach to security makes EUDEX, according to the organizers and many industry representatives, an exceptional format across Europe. EUDEX (Euro Defence Expo) in Essen is considered special because it pursues a concept that is virtually unique in Europe: it combines military defense and civil security on a single platform. By Urs Seiler || June 12, 2026 The trade fair takes a holistic view of security. Instead of presenting defense and civil security solutions

As AI adoption accelerates across Europe, enterprises are facing a new reality: sovereignty is no longer a policy discussion but a commercial and strategic necessity. With a landmark €180 million sovereign cloud investment accelerating Europe’s push for digital independence, organisations are being forced to confront a critical question: who controls the infrastructure powering the continent’s AI future? by Archie Marshall || 10 June 2026 Europe’s cloud infrastructure landsca

How refreshing to stumble upon a gem amidst the constant noise of social networks, one that intelligently debates the qualities of trade fairs in the age of artificial intelligence. By Urs Seiler || June 1, 2026 Image: Hannover Messe 2026 The topic is “The future of trade shows: digital platforms or real relationships?” The future of trade fairs as digital platforms has, as we know, proven to be an illusion, indeed a misnomer. We can only reiterate: there are neither "virtual

As climate emergencies intensify, geopolitical instability grows and the demands placed on emergency services continue to evolve, resilience has become one of the defining challenges of our time. Against this backdrop, INTERSCHUTZ 2026 is preparing for its most ambitious edition yet. by Archie Marshall || 26 May 2026 || Representation of Deutsche Messe AG for CH/Li || trade fairs of Deutsche Messe AG worldwide Taking place in Hanover, Germany, from 1–6 June under the theme “S

As global supply chains shift and demand for innovation accelerates, the international flooring industry is turning its attention to Shanghai. From May 27–29, the 28th edition of DOMOTEX asia/CHINAFLOOR 2026 will bring together thousands of industry professionals at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (NECC – Hongqiao), reinforcing Asia’s increasingly influential role in shaping the future of the global carpet and flooring sector. by Archie Marshall || 26 May 2026 |

Koelnmesse has been named Digital Champion 2026, taking the top spot in the latest study by ServiceValue commissioned by DEUTSCHLAND TEST and FOCUS MONEY. Koelnmesse systematically uses data to help visitors and exhibitors make more informed decisions and offer innovative services. by Koelnmesse || May 13, 2026 “The award as ‘Digital Champion 2026’ is both confirmation and motivation for us.” “At the same time. It shows that with our clear strategic focus on data, platforms a

Imerys will make its first appearance at Interschutz 2026, positioning its high performance absorbent technologies at the centre of next-generation spill control. From 1–6 June in Hannover, the company will showcase solutions engineered for rapid response across road, industrial, and waterborne incidents, an area of growing importance for both safety and environmental protection. Taking place at the Hannover Exhibition Center, Interschutz remains the leading global platform f

preXcon is finalizing its program: The new conference for innovation and technology transfer in precision engineering is based on six key topics and eleven clearly structured sessions. Attendees can tailor their visit to the specific sessions and their topics, aligning them with their interests and questions. The Olma trade fairs in St. Gallen Tickets are available here now! preXcon, taking place from November 3rd to 5th at the Olma Halls, is a new event format from Olma

The countdown to DOMOTEX asia/CHINAFLOOR 2026 is now firmly underway, with organisers releasing the official exhibitor list online ahead of the show’s return to Shanghai from 27–29 May 2026. For international buyers and industry professionals, this early access provides a strategic advantage, offering the ability to map out visits and arrange meetings before arriving on-site. Staged as the largest carpet and flooring trade fair in the Asia-Pacific region, the 28th edition is

The global surface technology sector returns to Stuttgart at a time of rising costs, tightening regulation, and growing pressure to innovate. by Archie Marshall // 2 May 2026 From 5–7 May 2026, SurfaceTechnology GERMANY 2026 will bring the international surface engineering community to Stuttgart at a pivotal time. With economic pressures mounting and technological demands accelerating, the event is positioned as a key meeting point for companies looking to navigate an increas

Easyfairs is stepping up its expansion in technology-led events with the acquisition of Food Hotel Tech and Tech For Retail, two of France’s most established platforms for innovation in hospitality and retail. The move signals a shift towards building more connected, scalable ecosystems across Europe. Announced on 15 April 2026, the deal brings the Paris-based events into the Easyfairs portfolio, combining their strong local identity with an international network and a more d

With 1,700 exhibitors from 54 countries, Techtextil and Texprocess 2026 will showcase the full spectrum of innovation in the international textile industry – from new materials and recycling technologies to finishing solutions and high-performance textile manufacturing and processing technologies. And it will defy the geopolitical environment. By Urs Seiler || April 22, 2026 || Representative of Messe Frankfurt for Switzerland and Liechtenstein “Iran is directly im

Including a video interview: Following the turnaround of Olma trade fairs, Markus Streckeisen is the new Chairman of the Board. Will this put pressure on day-to-day operations? By Urs Seiler || St. Gallen, April 14, 2026 General Assembly of Olma Messen on April 14, 2026 with, from left: Thomas Scheitlin, Christine Bolt, Markus Streckeisen. The event industry, especially the trade fair business, is undergoing a transformation, a transformation which Olma Messen, according

The scene at the Hannover Messe in April 2024: Everyone was talking about digital transformation, which would radically change industry. But exhibitor Fespo was already a step ahead, presenting its research on biological transformation at its booth. At the Hannover Messe 2026, Physical AI will also play a central role for the first time. The area of defense technology will also be new. By Urs Seiler || April 14, 2026 || Representation of Deutsche Messe AG for CH/Li || T

The countdown to AERO at the Friedrichshafen Exhibition Centre is on: Numerous Swiss companies, start-ups, and manufacturers will be exhibiting at the world's leading trade fair for general aviation. A wide range of products and services for business aviation and air sports will also be on display. This makes AERO one of the most important international meeting places for the industry. By Urs Seiler || April 7, 2026 They say great events cast their shadows before them. AE

Europe’s technological future will not be decided by innovation alone, but by who owns, scales, and controls the infrastructure behind it. A new whitepaper, “Digital Sovereignty: Technology Leadership Made in Europe” , from GITEX AI EUROPE in partnership with research firm LUE, argues that without decisive action, Europe risks remaining structurally dependent upon the systems shaping its digital economy. Set against an ICT market now valued at €1.02 trillion, the study outlin

The topic was taboo for decades: The decision to address the field of defense applications at XPONENTIAL Europe received broad support from the autonomous and unmanned technology sector, our supervisory board, and the political sphere. At the same time, there was public debate about whether and how defense belonged at the trade fair. Wolfram N. Diener has a clear position on this. by Wolfram N. Diener* || March 23, 2026 Just a year ago, we faced a pivotal decision: We, M

With Bangkok debuting in 2026 alongside Guangzhou’s global powerhouse, the Prolight + Sound brand is redefining its international focus and unlocking Southeast Asia’s booming entertainment technology sector. A Strategic Shift Towards Asia The Prolight + Sound brand is entering a new phase of international expansion, intensifying its focus on Asia’s growing markets. Following the conclusion of its Frankfurt event, the brand is now strengthening its presence across key regional

"The trade fair construction industry is under pressure," was a common sentiment at EuroShop 2026, and our mystery shopper noted the lack of immersive experiences. However, significant economic benefits are expected from the 81,000 trade visitors from 141 (!) countries and the 1,840 exhibitors from 61 nations in the retail and trade fair construction sectors. Visitors from the international trade fair construction industry, as listed below, were euphoric about the industry ga

The distinguished political gathering in Berlin signals a strong momentum for the Euro Defence Expo as members of industry, government and military leaders align on Europe’s ever-evolving security structures. As of today, 200 days until the opening of the Euro Defence Expo (EUDEX) , the new international trade fair for the security and defence industry has already sent a clear political message. At a Parliamentary Evening hosted at the Deutsche Parlamentarische Gesellschaft

Germany's largest and most global startup event: From AI gigafactories and sovereign cloud infrastructure to open source standards, GITEX AI EUROPE 2026 returns to Messe Berlin from 30 June to 1 July 2026 as the defining platform for Europe’s intelligent economy. It aims to unite startups, industry leaders, investors and policymakers for the acceleration of the continent’s next phase in technological development. by Archie Marshall || 5 March 2026 From 30 June to 1 July 2026,

Over many years, GITEX Global in Dubai has developed into the world's leading ICT trade fair, boasting over 6,800 exhibitors and 1,200 investors. The Swiss ICT industry made a strong showing at GITEX Global from October 13-17, 2025 , and not for the first time. The inaugural GITEX Europe in Berlin in June 2025, with 1,400 exhibitors and 600 investors, was also a success. Video: The Swiss Pavilion at GITEX Global in Dubai from October 13th to 17th, 2025. By Urs Seiler ||

The Chengdu International Industry Fair (CDIIF) is considered one of the most important industrial fairs in western China – and that is precisely what makes it strategically interesting for Europe. By Urs Seiler || February 26 , 2026 || Swiss Representative for the CDIIF The Xangtze River Economic Zone stretches from Shanghai to Chengdu. The Yangtze River Economic Zone stretches from Shanghai to Chengdu. The Southern Silk Road runs from Chengdu through Kunming to Myanmar an

Trade fairs are pillars of the knowledge society, going beyond being merely a park of exhibits. EuroShop must therefore also be judged on how well it answers the question of how much artificial intelligence the trade fair industry and the stand construction companies grouped in Hall 1 provide. By Urs Seiler || February 22, 2026 Image Copyright: EuroShop, Messe Düsseldorf. But help! I'm not an AI expert. But I'll take care of it! Joe Pine (pictured above), the originator o

With 4,636 exhibitors and participants from 170 nations and around 140,000 visitors, Ambiente, Christmasworld and Creativeworld 2026 reaffirmed Frankfurt’s role as a central marketplace for the international consumer goods industry. From 6 to 10 February, the city once again became the place where global networks strengthened and new business momentum emerged. Across the five days, Frankfurt’s exhibition grounds became a densely populated hub for dialogue and strategic positi