Table of Contents
1. Hello Maik, you must be busy getting ready for interzum, what are the show dates and hours?
interzum 2025 will take place from May 20 to May 23, 2025, in Cologne. The official show hours are:
- Tuesday to Thursday (May 20–22, 2025): 09:00 – 18:00
- Friday (May 23, 2025): 09:00 – 17:00
2. What’s new at interzum 2025?
This time, the main theme of interzum 2025 is "Rethinking Resources: Circular and Biobased Solutions." Sustainability is a key focus, with exhibitors presenting innovative eco-friendly materials, products, and processes.
The key features include:
- Rethinking Resources Boulevard on the Northern Boulevard, showcasing innovations in circularity and biobased materials.
- interzum Trend Stage, featuring lectures and discussions on sustainability and the circular economy.
- Three Trend Forums, aligned with the three interzum segments: "Materials & Nature," "Function & Components," and "Textile & Machinery."
- Interzum Award, highlighting advancements in circular design and biobased materials.
Our aim is to illustrate how circular economy principles work with biobased material innovations. We are certain that interzum 2025 will further drive the sustainable transformation of the furniture and interior design industries.
3. What sets interzum apart from other industry events?
Well, a couple of things but most importantly:
- Strong industry commitment, attracting a highly international and qualified audience.
- Unparalleled scale, quality, and global reach connecting supply and demand at a high level.
- A well-developed supporting program, offering diverse and expert-driven content.
- A combination of knowledge transfer and marketplace aspects, making it a must-attend event.
4. Is there collaboration between interzum and Ligna in Hannover?
Yes, even though interzum and Ligna are separate events, they complement each other in covering different aspects of the furniture production and woodworking industries.
- Mutual promotion: Each show supports visitor promotion for the other.
- Cross-event access: Visitors with a ticket for one show gain access to the other. More details are available here.
5. How many exhibitors and attendees are expected?
The last interzum 2023 hosted 1,600 exhibitors at 186,000 square meters of space. We expect that the upcoming edition with exceed exhibitor numbers and square meters compared with 2023 levels. We will be approaching 2019's record-breaking numbers.
In terms of attendees, we anticipate to exceed 62,000, moving closer to 2019 levels. Beyond numbers we expect to see more and more decision makers with purchasing power, a trend expected to persist in 2025.
6. Who is the target audience for interzum?
interzum attracts an international audience, including:
- Furniture and interior manufacturers
- Architects and designers
- Material specialists and procurement decision-makers
- Industries like caravan, shipbuilding, automotive, and aviation interiors
7. Will there be national pavilions?
Yes, interzum 2025 will feature national pavilions from multiple countries, including:
- USA
- Italy
- Croatia
- Turkey
- China
- Hong Kong
- Taiwan
- France
8. What are the three major segments of interzum, ranked by exhibitor numbers?
- Function & Components
- Materials & Nature
- Textile & Machinery
9. What changes will visitors notice in 2025?
- We expect a more international and dynamic show compared to 2023.
- Hall 1 will be significantly stronger, featuring key exhibitors such as Swiss Krono, Impress, Kastamonu, Ostermann, and Toppan.
- A new West Entrance will improve accessibility.
- Continuity in event structure, ensuring consistency in a challenging industry environment.
10. What are the Trend Forums and Trend Stage?
- Trend Stage: The central knowledge platform where invited industry experts present groundbreaking innovations. A must-attend for visitors seeking insights into emerging trends.
- Trend Forums: Special showcases aligned with the three interzum segments, focusing on sustainability and the circular economy:
- New material developments ("Materials & Nature," Hall 6)
- Digital product pass innovations ("Textile & Machinery," Hall 10.1)
- Future furniture processes ("Function & Components," Hall 10.2)
11. What is the industry's outlook for 2025?
Based on what we hear the industry outlook is mixed:
- Some regions still face economic challenges, while others are recovering.
- Major furniture markets remain in a tough position, but improvement is expected by Q3 2025.
- Exhibitors and visitors remain highly committed to interzum, recognizing that strong market presence is vital for future growth.
12. How can North American visitors best prepare for interzum?
US and Canadian attendees should secure tickets early and book accommodations soon and can use interzum’s website to find hotels. For any questions they should contact our North American contact: Franz Balve – Koelnmesse Inc. f.balve@koelnmesse.us or 732-933-1117.
