Rethinking Tomorrow: that was interzum 2025

Around 60,000 trade visitors from 148 countries came together in Cologne to discuss the latest developments in furniture production and interior design. From May 20 to 23, more than 1,600 international exhibitors presented concrete solutions for current challenges. A look at the numerous innovations and world premieres at interzum illustrates the dynamic development of the industry. Topics such as the sustainable transformation of the furniture industry, the increasing individualization of our living environments and flexible furnishing concepts were reflected in the products presented at the trade fair. Its three exhibition segments Function & Components, Materials & Nature and Textile & Machinery offered a comprehensive overview of the market

Many experts agree that suppliers and manufacturers in the furniture industry will have to invest even more in sustainable processes in the future. In order to avoid the risk of a shortage of resources, the development of recyclable products should be driven forward. At this year’s interzum, the central theme of “Rethinking Resources: Circular and Bio-based Solutions” lay at the heart of the event. The industry demonstrated its determination to play an active role in shaping its journey into a resource-efficient, sustainable future. From foams made from recycled waste to recovered fibres from MDF and HDF boards to resource-efficient zinc recycling systems, sustainability was the dominant theme at many exhibitors’ stands. “interzum 2025 has demonstrated the strength of this industry’s will to innovate – and the strength of its desire for sustainable change“, said Matthias Pollmann, Koelnmesse’s Vice President Trade Fair Management.

It was not only the high level of innovation at interzum 2025 that was impressive, but also the thematic depth. The event program for the trade fair provided information and inspiration in a variety of ways. The focus was on key future topics in the furniture industry and interior design. For example, new furnishing trends and current legal regulations and funding opportunities were presented. Presentations and workshops dealt with the introduction of a Digital Product Passport and Extended Producer Responsibility in the mattress industry. A new generation of circular biomaterials was also presented, which is currently finding its way into the interior market. The results of this year's interzum award are also evidence of this trend. Many of the award-winning products and concepts focus on recyclability, durability or the use of renewable raw materials.

A palpable spirit of positivity and optimism, in-depth discussions and a willingness to effect change were the hallmarks of this year’s interzum. The internationality of the exhibitors and visitors from all relevant sales markets clearly demonstrated the global orientation of the trade fair, but also the relevance of the topics discussed here. Cologne was once again the hotspot for furniture production and interior design, driving forward the industry's future topics. “interzum 2025 has once again provided compelling proof that it is the leading platform for the design of future living spaces,” commented Oliver Frese, Chief Operating Officer of Koelnmesse.