IMM Cologne Coming Back But with New Format

Just months after perhaps the largest and most influential furniture trade event in Europe was cancelled, it has been announced that IMM Cologne will return in 2026, and be held in January annually.

However, the show will be condensed into four days and the concept has been redefined. It will now focus on the consumer-oriented interior design segment, showcasing in-demand, market-ready product trends for all areas of home living.

Show organizer Koelnmesse says this will make IMM Cologne even more specifically aimed at the international furniture trade, including furniture retail chains, purchasing associations, online retailers and marketers, as well as further categories of trade visitors from the interiors industry, all of whom appeal to a broad customer base.

“Based on the findings of a thorough analysis of the interior design market, we have both adapted and realigned our approach,” says Koelnmesse president and CEO Gerald Böse. “We have made our long-established IMM Cologne concept fit for the future.”

The first trade fair in the new format will take place Jan. 20-23, 2026.

Beginning in 2025, Koelnmesse will introduce a new event tailored to different needs within the sector. Interior Design Days Cologne, simply known as IDD Cologne, will debut Oct. 26-29, and be hosted every other year. IDD will focus on inspirational design and high-end brands, featuring premium furniture alongside other labels specializing in lighting and interior design in the residential and hospitality interior segments. Alongside the retail and wholesale sector, the new format is aimed at industry professionals from the fields of interior design, architecture and project planning. It will also welcome design lovers with a passion for beautiful interiors.

Both events were developed in close collaboration with the furniture industry, particularly the Association of the German Furniture Industry (VDM) and the Federal Association of the German Furniture, Kitchen and Furnishing Trade (BVDM).

“The two new trade fair concepts that we have co-developed are specifically tailored to the different exhibitor segments and visitor groups,” says VDM president Leo Lübke. “As the largest furniture producing nation in Europe, we in Germany need these major industry showcases to strengthen our position in a highly competitive market.”