Italy and beyond

Koelnmesse appears to have successfully launched another project to internationalise its strong International Hardware Fair brand: the spin-off in Bergamo in northern Italy, not far from the metropolis of Milan, is proving a success. This is demonstrated by the numbers of exhibitors and visitors, but also by their feedback on the second edition of the International Hardware Fair Italy.

The event attracted around 5,600 visitors, which is around 6 per cent more than at the premiere two years ago. They travelled from 53 countries to attend the event on 8 and 9 May 2025. In the two exhibition halls and on the outdoor grounds, 320 companies from 22 countries presented their products and innovations. That was 20 (7 per cent) more than two years ago. The trade fair is organised by Koelnmesse Italia every two years in the years when the International Hardware Fair does not take place in Cologne. It appeals to the professional hardware sector, but also to the DIY and gardening sectors. Buyers from European DIY chains and retailers from other regions also attended.

From the outset, it was part of the concept that the trade fair in northern Italy would also have an impact on regions that are not so well served by the parent trade fair in Cologne, such as North Africa and Central Europe. And that is exactly what happened. In this way, the large German trade fair organiser has not only succeeded in establishing this regional event, but also in attracting new visitors to the main trade fair in Cologne.

The largest share of exhibitors and visitors came from Italy, where traditional hardware retail continues to play a major role. At the same time, however, the number of international buyers doubled compared to the first International Hardware Fair Italy, according to Koelnmesse. To facilitate exchanges with manufacturers, the organisers set up a matchmaking programme, which was used for 350 meetings.

The major Italian and international associations supported the trade fair. For example, the Italian manufacturers' association Made4DIY organised a boulevard for its members, similar to the one at the International Hardware Fair in Cologne.