Strong Registration Numbers Signal Industry Resilience
IMEX Frankfurt 2026, scheduled for May 19-21, is reporting strong international demand from both exhibitors and buyers, with registrations tracking ahead of the same period last year despite ongoing global business pressures. The show expects to welcome over 4,000 buyers from more than 60 countries, including 3,500 hosted buyers.
Global Exhibitor Expansion Across Key Markets
Exhibitors representing over 100 countries have confirmed their participation, with many expanding their presence at the event. Africa will have one of its largest-ever representations, featuring new exhibitors Mozambique and Angola. Egypt is doubling its footprint, while Tunisia and Uganda are both returning to the show floor.
Japan is 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 participate.
Multiple Middle Eastern destinations have confirmed their participation, including Abu Dhabi, Ajman, Dubai, Oman, Qatar and Ras Al-Khaimah. The Americas are also well-represented, 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.
European Participation Remains Strong
European representation continues to grow, with Austria, Denmark, Istanbul and Sarajevo among those increasing their booth sizes. Germany will have 150 exhibiting companies, including host city Frankfurt, which has been named World Design Capital this year.
Industry Leadership Perspective
IMEX CEO Carina Bauer commented on the strong demand: "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."
Registration for IMEX Frankfurt 2026 is free, with the education program now live featuring 11 tracks. First-time attendees can join an informal welcome session on the show's opening day.
Based on reporting by Event Industry News. Read the original article.