From January 12 to 16, 2025, Cologne will once again be the epicenter for the latest trends in interior design, as businesses from around the world convene to kick off the commercial year. The imm cologne trade fair, now open for standard bookings following the close of the early-bird period, promises a rich tapestry of opportunities for companies ranging from innovative start-ups to established medium-sized enterprises.
This time, businesses from 35 countries, with particularly strong representation from Germany and Denmark, will showcase their newest ideas and creations. The event’s central theme, “Connecting Communities,” aims to foster extensive networking opportunities for industry peers globally. Bernd Sanden, the director of imm cologne at Koelnmesse, elaborates on the theme’s significance: “Last year, we developed a theme that fits the times we live in perfectly with our Connecting Communities concept. We will bring this central theme to life with an intelligent and innovative approach that focuses on relevant content and new offerings – that is integral to our plans.”
The introduction of “The Circles” format at the fair will translate this thematic focus into tangible experiences. These circles will feature diverse design installations and host talks aimed at sparking the next trends in the industry. Additionally, catering areas within these circles will provide spaces for attendees to discuss various pressing topics, including sustainability and circularity.
A joint summit will also take place, hosted by the Association of the German Furniture Industry (VDM), the German Furniture and Kitchen Trade Association (BVDM), and Koelnmesse, where industry professionals will review the current industry landscape and celebrate collective achievements.
Dick Spierenburg, Creative Director of imm cologne, highlighted the evolution of the trade fair: “This year, we’ve established an innovative trade fair format with The Circles. It’s a concept we really believe in, and we will continue in this new direction that we’ve embarked on. We’ve got surprises lined up in several areas, and we’ll give the dialogue between industry professionals an extra boost to further strengthen it.”
In addition to traditional exhibition spaces, Koelnmesse has introduced new formats to meet varying market needs, including the Interior Platforms and Pure Galleries. These offer design-oriented, customizable stand options for exhibitors, with inclusive packages that also cater to the premium segment of the interior design market.
Bernd Sanden reassured participants about the continuous focus of the fair: “The industry’s products and innovations will be the stars of imm cologne once again in 2025. And we’re already excited to see what’s in store for us.” This approach underscores imm cologne’s commitment to being at the forefront of showcasing industry advancements and facilitating essential dialogues among global professionals.
