The repositioned imm cologne is set to open the 2026 furniture season with a notably strong international line-up, as Asian manufacturers emerge as a key driving force in the fair’s renewed direction. Taking place from 20–23 January 2026 at Koelnmesse, the event will occupy Halls 4, 5, 10.1 and 10.2, positioning itself as a central sourcing platform for mid-range to entry-level, consumer-oriented interior design.
Under the overarching theme “World of Interiors”, imm cologne aims to reconnect global supply and demand at a moment when international procurement is reshaping Europe’s furniture market. According to official German trade statistics, imports now account for approximately 60 per cent of Germany’s furniture market, with China alone representing 30 per cent of total imports. In the first half of 2025, Chinese furniture imports surged by 25 per cent, reaching €1.7 billion, underscoring Asia’s growing role in European supply chains.
Hallendurchblick, Halle 7
Stand: member of designweek, Pure, Halle 1
Asian manufacturers strengthen their presence
Four months ahead of opening, exhibitors from 27 countries and regions have already confirmed participation. Asian suppliers form one of the most dynamic groups, with companies from China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and Vietnam joining the 2026 edition. In addition, international joint stands will present manufacturers from Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Japan, Romania and Taiwan, reinforcing the fair’s global scope.
Among European participants, companies from Denmark and the Netherlands are particularly well represented, contributing to a balanced mix of international and regional players.
“In economically challenging times, the industry needs an efficient sourcing platform, and this is exactly where imm cologne delivers value,” said Bernd Sanden, Director of imm cologne. He noted that the strong commitment from Asian exhibitors confirms the fair’s position as a global trading hub that connects continents. The decision by many returning exhibitors to participate once again, he added, reflects long-term confidence in Cologne as a trade fair location and in imm cologne’s renewed strategic focus.
Stand: freund, Home, 10.1
Stand: brühl , Pure, Halle 1
A clearer hall structure for targeted buying
Aligned with its redefined positioning, imm cologne 2026 will present a streamlined and market-driven hall concept designed to support efficient navigation and targeted purchasing. The fair addresses a broad spectrum of buyers, from furniture retail chains and purchasing groups to online platforms, with a strong emphasis on proven, high-demand product categories.
Asian exhibitors will be primarily located in Halls 4.2 and 5.2, highlighting the importance of international sourcing within the overall layout. Hall 10.2 will focus on European suppliers of home and upholstered furniture, while Hall 10.1 will concentrate on mattresses and upholstered products.
This focus responds directly to current market pressures. According to the German Furniture Industry Association (VDM), turnover among German upholstered furniture manufacturers fell by 8 per cent in the first half of 2025, while the mattress sector experienced a sharper decline of 18.8 per cent. By foregrounding these segments, imm cologne positions itself as a platform designed not only for presentation, but also for revitalisation and concrete business outcomes.
As imm cologne enters its next chapter, the strong participation of Asian exhibitors signals a shift in global furniture trade dynamics, with Cologne reaffirming its role as a strategic meeting point for international sourcing, market adaptation and industry recovery.
Source: 77 Global Furnishings Media
