The global lighting and building technology sectors are undergoing rapid transformation, driven by electrification, digitalisation and energy efficiency. These themes will take centre stage at Light + Building 2026, the world's leading trade fair for lighting and building services technology, taking place in Frankfurt am Main from 8 to 13 March 2026.
The event will bring together around 2,000 exhibitors presenting innovations for energy-efficient buildings, intelligent connectivity and contemporary lighting solutions. For many companies, the trade fair provides a platform to develop international partnerships, showcase new technologies and discuss future project developments.
Light + Building reflects the increasingly integrated nature of the sector, where lighting, building technology, energy management and digital systems are converging to shape smarter and more sustainable built environments. Around 75% of exhibitors come from outside Germany, with strong representation from countries including China, Italy, Türkiye, Poland, Spain, the Netherlands, France, Austria and the United Kingdom.
"Light + Building 2026 is a realistic reflection of the market, with all its challenges and technological strengths," said Wolfgang Marzin, President and CEO of Messe Frankfurt. "In a phase of profound transformation, orientation becomes a decisive added value. Light + Building enables comparability, facilitates dialogue and provides a sound basis for decision-making."
The 2026 edition runs under the motto "Be Electrified – Electrifying Places. Illuminating Spaces." Three key themes structure the programme: Sustainable Transformation, Smart Connectivity, and Living Light.
© Messe Frankfurt Exhibition GmbH / Pietro Sutera
In the lighting sector, the Design Plaza in Hall 3.1 is the central meeting point for discussion panels and specialist lectures as well as the starting point for guided tours.
"Sustainable Transformation" focuses on the electrification and decarbonisation of buildings, particularly through modernisation of existing structures. "Smart Connectivity" highlights the growing role of intelligent systems and data integration in building management. Meanwhile, "Living Light" explores the impact of lighting on architecture, workplaces and urban environments.
A special exhibition titled "The Living Light" will premiere in Hall 3.1, curated by Berlin-based lighting design studio Lichtvision Design under the direction of Carla Wilkins. The exhibition will explore how lighting shapes everyday spaces across four contexts: home, education, workplace and communication.
Design will also play a key role at the event. The Design Plaza will host discussions and lectures on lighting design, architecture and building technology, while the Young Design format will spotlight emerging designers presenting innovative luminaire concepts.
As part of the broader Light + Building global network, Messe Frankfurt also organises trade fairs across Asia, the Middle East, the Americas and Europe, reinforcing the event's role as a central meeting point for the international lighting and building technology industries.
More information:
Light + Building
www.light-building.messefrankfurt.com
