International Hardware Fair takes stock

With around 33,000 trade visitors from 125 countries and around 2,500 exhibitors from 53 nations, the 2026 Eisenwarenmesse - International Hardware Fair brought together the global hardware industry in Cologne from March 3 to 6. Compared to the last trade fair two years ago, visitor and exhibitor numbers declined – in 2024, there were 38,000 trade visitors and 3,200 companies.

The high quality of trade visitors created a business-oriented atmosphere in the eleven halls, according to the organizers. This was also the conclusion reached by exhibitors: “Quality over quantity.” The new schedule from Tuesday to Friday was also appreciated, although it was noted that reducing the number of exhibition days would have been beneficial.  

The tense security situation in the Middle East led to short-term restrictions on international air travel. In addition, a warning strike in public transport on the last day of the fair made it difficult to travel within Cologne. Nevertheless, international participation remained at a high level, notes Koelnmesse: over 90 percent of exhibitors and 72 percent of visitors came from abroad.

The new iron workshop expanded the trade fair concept to include an application-oriented practical format: international creators from various craft sectors demonstrated the use of exhibitors' tools and technologies live. The DIY Boulevard once again presented itself as a platform for POS-oriented product presentation. Retailers and buyers were given a compact overview of the market here.

“This year's event has shown that the demand for personal exchange and reliable orientation in the market environment remains high,” reports Oliver Frese, Managing Director and COO of Koelnmesse. “With formats such as the Iron Workshop, we are further developing the trade fair and also placing greater focus on the target group of professional end users.”

BHB Managing Director Dr. Peter Wüst comments: "The Eisenwarenmesse is changing, and that's a good thing! The new schedule takes into account the needs of exhibitors and visitors. Innovations, safety, user comfort, sustainability, industry focus, DIY Boulevard, and many events and award ceremonies make this trade fair indispensable for anyone who wants to work together to align the industry and their companies with customer and market needs."

The next International Hardware Fair will take place in Cologne from March 7 to 10, 2028 - once again from Tuesday to Friday. Companies can now register for the upcoming event via the official website.