Tool trends and international participation at the hardware fair

The International Hardware Fair in Cologne, taking place from March 3rd to 6th, will present trends in tools and accessories, fastening and joining technology, fittings and building supplies.

This article is part of the special topic Trade fairs for the craft industry

As the most important platform for purchasing, knowledge transfer and networking, the International Hardware Fair the relevant stakeholders from industry, trade and procurement from all over the world from March 3th to 6th, 2026 zusammen.

For the first time, the trade fair will take place from Tuesday to Friday. The new schedule is more closely aligned with internationally established business days and makes it easier for exhibitors and visitors to plan high-quality meetings and sales appointments. Tickets are already available in the official ticket shop. 

Strong registration numbers underline international appeal

A look at the current registration status clearly shows the broad international participation in the International Hardware Fair: Approximately 2.450 companies from 53 countries have registered. The international share is 86 percent. Among the German companies and brands participating in the trade fair are, for example: ABUS August Bremicker Sons, alfer aluminum, allit, Arnz FLOTT, Brockhaus HEUER, Castle guard, C. & E. Fein, Collomix, CONACORD, Conmetall Meister, edding International, Erwin Halder, F. REYHER Nchfg., Felo Tool Factory, Fischerwerke, Gust. Alberts, Hailo-Werk Rudolf Loh, Heller Tools, Hettich Do-It-Yourself, JOKARI, KIP, Kirchoff Witte, KRAUSE factory, LUKAS ERZETT, MATADOR, MUNICIPALITY, NOVALIA Germany, NWS Germany Production W. Nöthen eK., Osborn, Picard, Prebena Wilfried Bornemann, PROJAHN Precision Tools, RHODIUS Abrasives, Rothenberger Tools, Saint-Gobain Abrasives, Scheppach, SFS Group, SPAX International, suki.international, TOX dowel technology, Weidmüller Interface, Wilh. Schmitt and wolfcraft.

Exhibitors from abroad can also be found online via the official exhibitor search. Sebastian HeinThe director of the International Hardware Fair, is optimistic about the current state of preparations and emphasizes the international appeal of the event: "The current registration figures show that the industry has Cologne firmly in its plans. We anticipate broad international participation and an exhibitor field that will..." The entire range of products and innovative strength of the hardware world This reflects the overall picture. The 2026 International Hardware Fair will thus launch as the global kick-off event of the year and the most important platform for new products, sourcing and personal business development."

New live format: Iron workshop brings practical knowledge to the stage

With the Iron workshop Furthermore, the fair is expanding its program to include an interactive format that presents craftsmanship in a contemporary way. In a stylized workshop in Passage 10/11, they will demonstrate... High-profile professionals from various trades demonstrate the live use of tools, equipment and materialsThe creators address specific questions from everyday work life and, involving the audience, share their know-how in the form of practical tips, tricks, and life hacks.

The workshop format offers a compact added value through further education, networking, and hands-on experience. Exhibitors can integrate their products into real-world application scenarios, thereby gaining additional visibility in a high-profile showcase.

International reach is being massively expanded. 

To further enhance the international business impact of the event, the International Hardware Fair 2026 is pursuing a clear strategic direction: a significant increase in internationality, reach, and visitor quality. At its core is the expansion of the Hosted Buyer Programs including systematic visitor management in six world regions, including Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, North America, the Middle East, and Africa. The goal is the Focused identification and personal approach to top buyers, retail chains, importers, OEMs and international decision-makers.

Additionally, a new program is launching for the first time. VIP accreditation programThis event is specifically aimed at international decision-makers at the executive level who are responsible for global procurement – ​​such as managing directors, owners, purchasing managers, or category managers. VIP visitors benefit from exclusive services and personalized support, ensuring efficient and convenient trade fair organization. For exhibitors, this translates into higher-quality contacts, better planning of business appointments, and an additional boost for international market development. 

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