Exhibition Info
ISM Cologne 2026
| Date: | 01 – 04 Feb 2026 |
| Venue: | Cologne, Germany |
Introduction
ISM Cologne 2026, the leading international trade fair for confectionery and snacks, is scheduled to take place from Feb 01 to 04, 2026, at the Koelnmesse Exhibition Centre in Cologne, Germany. Widely regarded as the global hub for the sweets and snacks sector, the event gathers professionals from around the world to present innovative products, identify emerging trends, and strengthen international business networks.
The event features a comprehensive range of product categories, including chocolate, confectionery, biscuits, bakery snacks, and savory items. It provides an exceptional platform for exhibitors and visitors to explore new business opportunities and gain strategic insights into the future direction of the confectionery industry. With an increasing focus on sustainability, health-oriented solutions, and responsible sourcing, ISM Cologne 2026 continues to be a key stage where the future of the global confectionery market takes sha
Event Highlights of ISM Cologne 2026
- Next-Generation Product Showcases: Explore an inspiring selection of breakthrough confectionery and snack innovations from exhibitors worldwide, spanning premium indulgences to better-for-you snack solutions.
- Emphasis on Sustainability & Wellness: Discover emerging movements in eco-friendly and health-driven snacking, from responsibly sourced ingredients to organic, plant-based, and free-from creations designed for modern lifestyles.
- First-Ever Product Reveals: Get exclusive early access to newly unveiled snack and confectionery launches, providing a forward-looking glimpse into where the market is headed.
- Global Industry Networking: Connect with more than 1,500 exhibitors and over 38,000 trade visitors representing 140 countries, including leading producers, ingredient experts, packaging specialists, and retail decision-makers.
- Expert Conferences & Insight Panels: Gain valuable insights through expert-led sessions covering sustainable supply chains, digital innovation, evolving consumer behavior, and future-ready food strategies.
- ISM Awards 2026: Honor excellence and innovation as the industry’s most influential confectionery and snack products are recognized at the renowned ISM Awards 2026.
- ProSweets Cologne 2026: Dive into the complete confectionery supply ecosystem with the co-located ProSweets Cologne 2026, showcasing advanced production processes, packaging solutions, and material innovations.
- Curated Special Exhibits & Themes: Engage with dedicated showcases spotlighting functional snacking, premium confectionery concepts, and smart digital solutions shaping the future of sweets and snacks.
Why Attend ISM Cologne 2026?
Stay Ahead of Trends: ISM Cologne is the leading event to discover the latest trends, from indulgent gourmet treats to healthy, functional snacks.
Exclusive Networking Opportunities: Forge valuable connections with key industry players, including decision-makers from major global brands, startups, and innovative suppliers.
Insights from Industry Leaders: Learn from industry experts and gain insights into consumer behavior, sustainability practices, and emerging market opportunities through expert talks and panels.
Product Launches and Innovations: Be among the first to explore new product launches that set the tone for the future of sweets and snacks in global markets.
Expand Your Business: With participants from over 140 countries, ISM Cologne offers unparalleled opportunities to expand your business into new global markets.
Sustainability and Ethical Practices: Learn how leading companies are embracing sustainability, ethical sourcing, and eco-friendly packaging practices in line with global consumer demands.
Inspiration for Product Development: Find inspiration for your own product development by seeing firsthand the latest innovations in confectionery, snacks, and food production technologies.
Industry Growth and Market Information
The global confectionery market continues to demonstrate strong momentum, with its overall valuation projected to move well beyond $300 billion by 2026. Growing consumer preference for premium indulgence, health-oriented formulations, and environmentally responsible snacks remains a major growth catalyst, particularly across Europe, North America, and the Asia-Pacific region. Within Europe, Germany continues to hold a leading position, sustaining its strength in both confectionery production and consumer demand.
At the same time, the startup ecosystem within the confectionery and snack industry is expanding steadily, maintaining an annual growth rate of around 10%. Emerging brands are increasingly utilizing digital channels, e-commerce, and social media to connect with health-conscious audiences who prioritize sustainability, ingredient transparency, and ethical sourcing. The rising shift toward organic, plant-based, and responsibly manufactured products has further accelerated the success of startups focused on these segments.
ISM Cologne remains a central hub for the global sweets and snacks industry, consistently attracting strong international participation. In 2023, the event welcomed over 38,000 visitors and 1,500 exhibitors from 140 countries. By 2026, attendance is expected to surpass 40,000, reinforcing its reputation as the world’s most influential trade fair for confectionery and snacks. Working with an experienced exhibition stand contractor in Cologne continues to be a key strategy for exhibitors aiming to create strong brand visibility and achieve maximum impact at this flagship event.
