DOMOTEX 2026 concluded successfully, with over 500 exhibitors from more than 50 countries gathering in Hannover from 19 to 22 January to present innovations in flooring and interior finishing. The fair demonstrated a tangible shift in positioning as the international platform for both flooring and comprehensive interior solutions, with strong participation from leading market players and widespread positive feedback from exhibitors and visitors.
Strategic Reinvention and Market Response
The restructured format marked a significant evolution for the traditional flooring fair. Arno Reich, Senior Vice President at Deutsche Messe AG, noted that “DOMOTEX has reinvented itself and shown us all that it pays off to boldly explore new paths. DOMOTEX 2026 sets new benchmarks for the entire industry. Both exhibitors and visitors have given us consistently positive feedback.” Annette Levy, Project Director of DOMOTEX, highlighted the strategic expansion: “DOMOTEX has successfully evolved in terms of content and concept – without losing its roots in flooring. The expansion to include wall and ceiling products was exactly the right move and created new synergies that were clearly tangible across the exhibition grounds.”
Key exhibitors from established companies affirmed the shift. Bruno Descamps, Managing Director at Lamett, stated that “the fair feels like a real new beginning – a clear confirmation that this format is still absolutely meaningful. The atmosphere is positive, our customers and team are excited, and we were able to conduct important discussions and secure very successful deals.” Mark Bircham, Managing Director of Kronoplus, emphasized the value of physical presence: “It is especially important that customers can not only see our technologies and designs but also touch and experience them – something that is difficult to convey online.”
International Reach and Visitor Quality
The fair maintained its strong international profile, attracting trade visitors from numerous countries seeking to launch business initiatives for the new year. Griescha Krebs, Field Manager at Florim Ceramiche, observed: “We were very positively surprised by the internationality of DOMOTEX. The audience is much more diverse and international than we expected – from Venezuela to Israel to Thailand, everything was represented. Especially for ceramics, the tactile experience is crucial for customers.”
Exhibitors particularly valued the Retailers Park section, which provided targeted information about brands and concepts. New participants reported successful debuts. Stefan Klinker, Head of Sales Professional Germany at AkzoNobel, commented: “We are very satisfied with our first appearance at DOMOTEX. The fair provides the ideal platform to connect with new customers and support existing clients intensively.” Luigi Giordano, Key Account Manager at Teba, added that “the diversity of target groups – from international decision-makers to craftspeople – and the high quality of the discussions exceeded our expectations.”
Expanded Product Range and Industry Recognition
The integration of wall, ceiling, and interior finishing products alongside established flooring offerings created new business opportunities throughout the value chain. The fair’s supporting program featured presentations and discussions on key topics including sustainability, circular economy, design, and new working environments.
Industry achievements were recognized through multiple awards. The Green Collection Award went to Weitzer Parkett for its sustainable product solution, Weitzer ReParkett. Josef Stoppacher, Managing Director of Weitzer Parkett, emphasized: “In times of increasing digitalization, direct on-site exchange is extremely important to establish new business contacts and deepen existing relationships. Winning the first prize of the Green Collection Award confirms our consistent commitment to sustainability and circular economy.” The fair also hosted the Parkett Star Award from SN-Verlag and the Netzwerk Boden Award, alongside appearances by notable personalities addressing industry audiences.
Looking Ahead
The successful edition confirms the viability of the expanded concept. The next DOMOTEX Home of Flooring & Interior Finishing will take place from 17 to 20 January 2028 in Hannover.
