IMEX Frankfurt 2026 has concluded with a strong attendance with over 4,000 hosted buyers from 82 countries and around 3,100 exhibitors representing 150 nations. It maintained robust participation despite global uncertainties and marked one of the largest editions in terms of floor space.
The central theme for 2026-2027 focused on how design shapes events, behaviour, and business outcomes. Hall 9 received a redesign around this concept, with education sessions and speakers exploring design as a key differentiator in the meetings industry.
IMEX extended its contract with Messe Frankfurt through 2030, securing the venue long-term and reinforcing confidence in the European market for business events.
Education & Networking: Over 200 sessions across 11 tracks covered topics including AI, sustainability, legacy, and advanced event logistics. Side events included the IMEXrun 5K, SITE NITE Europe, and a gala dinner, driving strong relationship building.
Optimism prevailed with emphasis on in-person meetings, legacy measurement, and economic impact. New research on global business events value and announcements from destinations highlighted recovery and future growth.
The event brought a strong focus on hosted buyer programme success, country pavilions, tech integration, and wellbeing initiatives. The event reinforced the MICE sector’s adaptability and long-term value.
The 35 tourism enterprises from Ireland attending IMEX Frankfurt 2026 included Adare Manor, BEM Ireland, Clayton Hotel Burlington Road, Conrad Dublin, Croke Park Meetings & Events, Crowne Plaza Belfast, Dexcom Stadium Meetings & Events, Dromoland Castle, Dublin Convention Bureau, Event Partners Ireland, FBD Hotels & Resorts, Guinness Storehouse, Hastings Hotels, Horizons by Tour Partner Group, InterContinental Dublin , College Green Hotel Dublin , Powerscourt Hotel Resort & Spa, Iveagh Garden Hotel, Moloney & Kelly, Mount Juliet Estate, National Trust, Neville Hotels, O’Callaghan Collection, Odyssey International, Precise Events International, Radisson Blu Royal Hotel / Dublin Royal Convention Centre, Scally Hotel Collection, Shannon Region Conference & Sports Bureau, Convention Centre Dublin, Europe Hotel & Resort, K Club, Shelbourne, Westbury, Tifco Hotel Group, University College Dublin, Visit Belfast and Wallace Travel Group.
