International Hardware Fair focuses on internationality

German trade fair organiser Koelnmesse expects high international participation for Eisenwarenmesse - International Hardware Fair 2026 in Cologne. According to current registration figures, around 2,450 companies from 53 countries have announced their participation. The proportion of foreign companies is 86 per cent.

This year, the trade fair will take place from Tuesday to Friday for the first time, from 3 to 6 March 2026. The new schedule is more closely aligned with internationally established business days and makes it easier for exhibitors and visitors to plan high-quality trade and purchasing appointments, according to the organisers.

In order to further increase the international impact of the event, the strategy envisages a significant increase in internationality, reach and visitor quality. The core of this is the expansion of the Hosted Buyer Programme, including systematic visitor management in six regions of the world, including Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, North America, the Middle East and Africa. The aim is to identify and personally address top buyers, retail chains, importers, OEMs and international decision-makers in a focused manner.