With a month to go until the 2026 edition of IMEX Frankfurt, international demand from both exhibitors and buyers continues to build and is tracking strongly against the same period last year.
The substantial momentum for the show, taking place May 19-21, is a welcome indication of the sector’s resilience in a wider business landscape currently defined by rapid shifts and unpredictability. Hosted buyer registrations are currently ahead of last year, and exhibitors from a wide range of global markets have confirmed their participation, with many expanding their presence.
Worldwide buyer demand
The show’s set to welcome 3,500 hosted buyers, with total buyer numbers expected to reach over 4,000 from 60+ countries when it opens in May.
Alongside a strong buyer presence from across Europe, North and South America, buyers from the Middle East, Africa and Asia will all be strongly represented.
Global exhibitor momentum
The global range of exhibitors confirmed and representing 100+ countries is a further sign of the sector’s strength and commitment to driving forward business.
Africa will have one of its largest-ever representations at the show, with new exhibitors Mozambique and Angola; Egypt doubling its footprint; and Tunisia and Uganda both returning.
Japan is also set for one of its largest-ever participations, with Kyoto doubling the size of its booth. Malaysia is expanding its presence, and both China and Hong Kong are returning to the show floor.
Multiple Middle Eastern destinations are confirmed, demonstrating their determination and resilience, including Abu Dhabi, Ajman, Dubai, Oman, Qatar and Ras Al-Khaimah.
Also exhibiting are North and South America, with Brand USA returning and California taking its own booth for the first time. South America’s footprint is increasing with Uruguay welcoming twice as many partners and Mexico doubling its space.
In terms of European representation, Austria, Denmark, Istanbul and Sarajevo are among those increasing in size. There are 150 exhibiting companies from Germany, including host city Frankfurt that has this year been named World Design Capital.
“With worldwide suppliers turning out in force and international buyer registration numbers tracking ahead of previous years, current demand for the show sends a clear signal: our industry is defined by collective determination, solid business momentum and a sense of unity.
“Despite the global disruption that’s impacting many, global pressures haven’t dented appetite for our community to come together and advance the conversations that matter, using IMEX as a springboard for both short and long-term business and relationship building,” says IMEX CEO Carina Bauer.
- IMEX Frankfurt takes place May 19-21. Registration is free
- Those new to the show can join an informal first-timers welcome taking place on the show’s opening day.
- The education program is now live—browse the 11 tracks here
Author: Kizzy Allott
Kizzy Allott is Publisher at Event Industry News, where she has been a driving force behind the brand for over a decade. With a deep understanding of the events sector and a passion for storytelling, Kizzy leads the platform’s commercial and content strategy, connecting the industry through news, insights, and meaningful conversations. She is dedicated to championing innovation, amplifying industry voices, and ensuring event professionals stay informed, inspired, and future-focused.
