'I dare say we had a wonderful edition,' says Glenn De Maeseneer, managing director of Brussels Furniture Fair, when asked. 'What was particularly striking was the enthusiasm that exhibitors exuded even during the setup phase. There was already satisfaction with the expected turnout and appreciation for the quality of the stands around them. That positive vibe continued on the exhibition floor itself, with lots of experiences, constructive conversations, and quality visits.'
The number of visitors was in line with the previous edition, but according to De Maeseneer, it ''felt even better'' thanks to more international visits and numerous concrete orders. 'In addition, the introduction of the Outdoor Living platform proved to be a bullseye right away. So much so that we can now say with certainty that this platform will have a follow-up.'
The many positive responses give the organization "a huge boost towards the next editions after a period of hard work." 'We are working on the constructive feedback we received and are building on the good momentum. In doing so, we are paying extra attention to the internationalization of the audience, broadening the range, and the experience on the floor,' says De Maeseneer.
© Leo Elenbaas | InteriorDaily.com
According to managing director Glenn De Maeseneer, optimism and innovation characterized the 2025 edition of the Brussels Furniture Fair, where 235 brands presented their latest collections.
With 235 exhibitors spread over seven halls, the fair saw an increase of 25 brands compared to last year. Notable was the strong growth in the number of Belgian participants: 95 brands compared to 83 in 2024; an increase of 14 percent.
'Although the percentage of foreign manufacturers has therefore slightly decreased, the absolute number of foreign participants continues to rise. So the international appeal of our fair remains intact,' says De Maeseneer.
International names included Schramm Betten, Polipol, Benix, Puszman, Le Sommeil Français, Gautier, Sympa, LS Bedding, Bree's New World, RB Collection, Kristensen & Kristensen, and Jakobsen Home. 'These brands each contribute to a noticeable quality improvement of our fair,' he emphasizes.
Forward-thinking
According to De Maeseneer, the atmosphere among exhibitors was exceptionally positive. 'During the setup days, we visit almost all of our exhibitors. We learn how they are preparing for the fair, discover new collections, and gain insight into the direction the market is moving. What stood out this year was the great drive and high expectations. Many participants saw their efforts already rewarded even before the doors officially opened.'
Although the furniture market has been challenging in recent times, De Maeseneer remains optimistic. 'The results of the past year show that the market has not been easy, but recent developments give reason for confidence. That optimism stems from manufacturers' belief in their own entrepreneurship and the innovations they present here.'
Resilience is, according to him, the key word. 'When the road is blocked, entrepreneurs look for new paths. This creates new opportunities, and that's precisely the mindset we as a fair want to support.'
© Dwight Klecha | InteriorDaily.com
View the photo reportage that InteriorDaily made of Brussels Furniture Fair 2025 here.
During his speech, De Maeseneer pointed out three segments that are currently developing strongly within the fair: Outdoor Living, Contract, and Belgian Design Island. 'The seed we planted last year with the launch of our Outdoor Living platform has grown into a fully-fledged international segment,' according to De Maeseneer.
Brands like Roolf Living, Wünder, Umbrosa, Tooon by Toon De Somer, Chill Line, Richmond, Soho, Mazu, and Gescova presented their collections in hall 4. 'With this platform, we are expanding our offering and reaching a broader audience. This is a long-term project in which we will continue to invest in the coming years.'
Contract: focus on hospitality and office
A second growth area is the Contract segment, where furniture manufacturers are increasingly focusing on the hospitality and office market alongside traditional retail. 'These sectors offer stability at times when the private market cools down,' explains De Maeseneer.
To strengthen this connection, the fair introduced the Contract Network Drink, a networking event on Tuesday evening in hall 5, where interior designers and decision-makers from the hospitality sector could directly connect with manufacturers. More than thirty exhibitors participated.
Belgian Design Island: stage for young talent
The third focus point is the Belgian Design Island, at the entrance of hall 5. Here, young designers and startups had the chance to showcase their work. 'The future of our sector depends on today's designers. We find it important to offer them a platform where they can share their ideas and vision,' says De Maeseneer.
© Dwight Klecha | InteriorDaily.com
The Brussels Furniture Fair 2025 took place at Brussels Expo and provided a broad overview of the European furniture industry, with particular attention to quality, innovation, and Belgian craftsmanship. View the photo reportage that InteriorDaily made.
With a clear message, Glenn De Maeseneer concluded his speech: 'The strength of our fair lies in collaboration, trust, and renewal. We want to remain a meeting place for everyone active in the furniture world, from established brands to young designers. That shared enthusiasm makes the future of our sector so promising.'
The Brussels Furniture Fair 2025 took place at Brussels Expo and provided a broad overview of the European furniture industry, with particular attention to quality, innovation, and Belgian craftsmanship. Next year's fair will take place from November 8 to 11, 2026.
More information:
Brussels Furniture Fair
www.meubelbeurs.be
