By DHANANJAY SARDESHPANDE

Fresh from an interregnum of nearly 4 years, Interzum 2023 gave the furniture and furnishings industry a fresh impetus over its 4-day course in Cologne (Germany). There was palpable relief and enthusiasm among exhibitors and visitors alike, at the end of the global disruptions caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.

For those interested in the statistics, Interzum (9-12 May) attracted approximately 62,000 trade visitors from 150 countries – furniture manufacturers, architects and  interior designers alike – to see what the 1,600-odd exhibitors had to offer to better plan and lead their  ventures.

The countries with the largest number of visitors were Germany, Italy, Spain and Poland. The number of Turkish visitors increased by 16% compared to the previous edition of the trade fair. The organiser also recorded a sizeable increase in the number of trade visitors from India.

True to the demands of present-day business, the trade fair’s central theme was ‘neo-ecology’, with its focus clearly on sustainability, climate protection and resource efficiency.

This seems to have struck a chord with the industry, where several exhibitors recognised the aspects of smart materials, renewable energies, and recycling or up-cycling, which reflected in many of the innovative products on display.

The varied programme of events also explored these themes – Interzum Trend Forums, Interzum Product Stage and Interzum Trend Stage – where renowned industry experts discussed the most important developments, trends and emerging topics in the worlds of furniture, materials and furnishings.

“The trade fair could barely have showcased its importance for the industry any better,” said a delighted Oliver Frese, Chief Operating Officer of Koelnmesse. For him, the event’s success was a “clear sign that first-rate flagship events such as Interzum are more vital than ever before”.

Many of the exhibition stands were also designed with sustainability and resource efficiency in mind. Drawing on the experiences gathered this year, the trade fair organiser, Koelnmesse, will explore how it can further integrate sustainability into future events.

The next Interzum is scheduled to be held in Cologne from 20 to 23 May, 2025.

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