Interzum 2025, which concluded last May 23 in Cologne, confirmed itself as the world's benchmark platform for the subcontracting sector for the furniture industry and interior design. In fact, about 60,000 professional visitors from 148 countries, the main ones being Italy, China, Spain, Poland and the Netherlands. The internationality of the event was also evident among the exhibitors, more than 1,600 from 57 countries on a gross exhibition area of 176,000 square meters.

“Interzum 2025 has once again demonstrated unequivocally that it is the leading platform for designing the living spaces of the future,” commented Oliver Frese, Chief Operating Officer of Koelnmesse. “Feedback from interviews with our exhibitors confirms the high profile of the visitors, professionals of the highest caliber.”

interzum 2025, FGV booth, Function & Components

International stage of new products

For four days, interzum 2025 was the international stage for innovative materials, smart components and smart technologies that will make tomorrow's homes and workplaces more comfortable. There was a spirit of positivity and optimism at the fair, despite the uncertain geopolitical situation.

With its three exhibition segments-Function & Components, Materials & Nature and Textile & Machinery-interzum presented a comprehensive overview of market offerings, rich in innovation and with high technological content. There were also numerous new product offerings at the fair highlighting a rapidly developing sector.

interzum 2025, Egger booth, Materials & Nature

An active role for a sustainable future

The interzum 2025 theme “Rethinking Resources: Circular and Bio-based Solutions” was the focus of the event, with the industry demonstrating its willingness to play an active role for a sustainable future. From polyurethanes made from recycled waste to MDF panels made from recovered fibers to zinc recycling systems, sustainability featured prominently in many exhibitors' booths.

As Matthias Pollmann, Vice President Trade Fair Management Koelnmesse pointed out, "interzum 2025 has demonstrated this industry's willingness to innovate and its desire for sustainable change. We are already looking ahead to the next event, where we intend to continue to support this transformation process and stimulate new ideas. Our goal is to continue to offer the industry a platform where trends are not only discussed, but also implemented."

interzum 2025, Rethinking Resources Boulevard, North Boulevard

Trends and inspirations for the future

The central theme of interzum 2025 was also reflected in the rich program of events. The three interzum Trend Forums delved into key topics influencing the future of the industry such as biocircular materials, environmentally sustainable design, the Digital Product Passport, and strategies for a circular economy.

The interzum Trend Stage was once again the focal point for thematic insights. Experts gave high-level presentations, sharing experiences on international industry trends, providing interesting market analysis and discussing the current regulatory environment.

Finally, the interzum Product Stage enriched the program with practical tips related to new products, best practices and strategies provided by the exhibitors themselves.

interzum 2025, Vefer booth, Textile & Machinery

As in previous years, the highlight of the fair was the presentation of the Interzum Awards, which saw 66 innovative products on display on the North Boulevard that attracted considerable interest from visitors.

New this year #ILoveMyinterzum, an interactive area within the fair for a daily happy hour with the goal of creating new spaces and moments of dialogue in a relaxed atmosphere.

The next interzum will be held in Cologne May 11-14, 2027.

interzum 2025, OWI booth, Function & Components