The cancellation of imm cologne 2025 highlights the challenges facing the German furniture industry and Germany as a trade fair location. At the same time, it offers an opportunity to reorganise the leading trade fair: The industry now has the chance to develop innovative concepts that meet the demands of the future.
As a leading international trade fair, the imm cologne has been an indispensable meeting place for economic impulses and international dialogue for decades. The loss of this platform is not only detrimental to the trade fair business in Cologne. It could also weaken Germany’s position as Europe’s leading furniture centre.
Gerald Böse, CEO of Koelnmesse, explains: The cancellation of imm cologne at this time is the logical decision in view of the general situation in the industry. It was extremely difficult for us, but also unavoidable in view of our international customers. In the Corona years, the imm cologne could not be held three times in a row because of its January date. This lack of continuity, combined with the current economic environment, makes it impossible for us as organisers to guarantee an attractive range of exhibitors for the trade in Cologne in January 2025.
Despite the difficult framework conditions, the decision to suspend imm cologne 2025 also offers opportunities for reorientation. The industry has the chance to work together on innovative concepts that are tailored to changing needs and requirements.
Leo Lübke, President of the Association of the German Furniture Industry, emphasises: ‘The suspension of imm cologne is extremely regrettable, but ultimately a necessary and correct step. Like many other sectors, the furniture market has changed significantly in recent years – and with it the demands on trade fairs. Unfortunately, the current situation in the industry is forcing many companies to rethink. The Association of the German Furniture Industry is currently working intensively with Koelnmesse on new concepts tailored to the individual furniture segments. As the largest furniture nation in Europe, we need our key trade fairs and rely on the furniture expertise in Cologne,’ emphasises Lübke.
For 75 years, the imm cologne has been an important international showcase for the innovation and design expertise of the German furniture industry. Changes in distribution channels are forcing the leading trade fair to adapt its programme. But this situation also offers the imm cologne the opportunity to emerge strengthened and ready for the challenges of the future. Lutz Dietzold, Managing Director of the German Design Council, adds: ‘We deeply regret the cancellation of imm 2025. The time has come to make a clear statement: The industry must stand together and work resolutely to strengthen Germany as a trade fair location. Germany still needs a strong, future-oriented format, especially in the high-end segment, where design-oriented manufacturers can present themselves to Germany and the world.
