imm cologne, one of the world's leading furniture fairs, is gearing up for its 2026 edition with strong momentum. Bernd Sanden, part of the organising team, shares that preparations are on track, with positive feedback on the updated concept and finalised hall layouts focused on a reliable, B2B-oriented experience tailored to today's consumer-driven market. The fair aims to blend tradition and innovation, remaining a key platform for networking and industry growth.
© Marie-Elise Bruins Slot | InteriorDaily.com
Bernd Sanden, Director of imm cologne.
How are preparations progressing for the upcoming edition of imm cologne?
'Preparations are proceeding steadily and according to schedule. We are receiving positive feedback on the revised concept, and our team is in ongoing, constructive dialogue with key industry players. The hall layout for hall 4, 5 and 10 has been finalised, and we are focused on creating a reliable, B2B-focused platform that meets the current needs of the consumer-oriented furniture sector.'
What are your main goals or focus points for the fair edition in 2026?
'Our main goal is to strengthen imm cologne as a firm fixture at the start of the international furniture calendar. We are focusing on efficiency, market proximity, and relevance. That is why we have introduced a more compact and cost-effective trade fair concept, specifically tailored to the current demands of the European furniture industry. The theme 'World of Interiors' reflects this direction, showcasing the diversity of the consumer-oriented interior segment in a format that is both accessible and well-targeted. As an international business platform, imm cologne brings together decision-makers from across Europe and beyond, offering ideal conditions for forging meaningful business connections at the heart of one of the world's most important furniture markets: Cologne.'
Have you noticed any significant trends in exhibitor registration compared to previous years?
'Of course, we are seeing significant changes. With the realignment of our concept and the clear focus on defined target groups, we are now observing a more streamlined and purpose-driven exhibitor structure. We are bringing together exclusively consumer-oriented suppliers who present market-ready products and are focused on initiating international business. As a result, imm cologne is features an international exhibitor base and targets the European retail sector while also ensuring market-relevant representation from overseas.'
What can exhibitors expect in terms of visibility, networking, and innovation platforms?
'At imm cologne 2026, our focus is clear: enabling business. Exhibitors can expect a compact and highly efficient setting that is entirely geared toward generating leads, building partnerships, and closing deals. The new hall concept ensures optimal visibility and a targeted visitor flow, tailored to the needs of a professional, decision-making audience. With the imm interior stage, we offer a central forum for market-relevant content, featuring expert talks and discussions that support business development.'
Are there any formats, curated areas, or themes being introduced for exhibitors this year?
'We are still in the preparation phase of the event, but one central element already in place is our guiding theme: "World of Interiors." This theme encapsulates the new strategic direction of imm cologne, positioning the fair as a focused B2B-platform that reflects the full spectrum of modern cost-effective living. It covers everything from entry-level products to mid-priced lifestyle brands, offering a compact and market-relevant overview of furnishing solutions. The theme also underlines imm cologne's role as a key sourcing destination for both large-scale retail and e-commerce. While curated areas and new formats are still being finalised, World of Interiors will frame the overall experience, ensuring that all content, exhibitions, and networking formats serve one goal: to connect international suppliers with the right buyers and decision-makers in the European interior market.'
Can you share any insight into expected visitor numbers or international attendance?
'While it is still too early to provide figures, we are seeing promising signs in terms of international interest. The majority of visitors are expected from across Europe, our primary target market, but we are also registering growing momentum from overseas, particularly in Asia.'
How is the imm cologne responding to current design and market trends, such as sustainability, circular design, or digitalization?
'Sustainability, circular design, and digitalisation are core elements of our guiding theme 'World of Interiors'. As a sourcing platform, imm cologne reflects the market's demand for future-proof solutions, whether through sustainable materials, innovative product lifecycles, or digital sales strategies. These trends are visible across our exhibitor presentations and will also be explored on the imm interior stage through targeted talks and discussions.'
Do you see any changes coming in the trade fair format or concept in the years ahead?
'As a result of shifting market dynamics, the trade fair landscape is also undergoing significant transformation, and we are actively embracing that change. At imm cologne, we are not simply responding; we are helping to shape what is next. With the relaunch of imm cologne in January 2026 and the introduction of idd cologne in October 2025, we have already implemented major structural changes that reflect developments in the German furniture market. Our current priority is to stabilise and refine this new concept of imm cologne in close dialogue with the industry. We are striving for consistency, while remaining agile and responsive to evolving needs.'
What are your expectations for the role of in-person events in a still-evolving post-pandemic world?
'In-person events continue to offer unmatched value when it comes to building trust, sparking inspiration, and generating momentum within the industry. Trade fairs, hold a unique and irreplaceable role. They enable direct interaction, real-world experiences, and spontaneous exchanges that no virtual format can fully replicate. Especially in times of transformation, these physical platforms provide orientation, strengthen relationships, and create tangible opportunities. That is why we believe well-positioned events will remain essential touchpoints for the future of the interior business, just as imm cologne has been for over 70 years now.'
imm cologne will take place at 20.–23.01.2026
More information:
www.imm-cologne.com