Rethinking Tomorrow, this claim introduces the next edition of interzum, the trade fair dedicated to subcontracting for the furniture industry and interior design, scheduled for May 20-23, 2025, in Cologne. Figures presented by interzum director Maik Fischer at a press conference held in Milan on March 18 confirm that the event once again promises to be the most important global meeting point for the industry to propose, discuss and experiment with the solutions of tomorrow.

Significant presence of Italian companies

Of note is not only the number of companies that will participate in interzum 2025, but also the quality of exhibitors registered in the three usual functional segments, “Function & Components,” “Materials & Nature,” and “Textile & Machinery.” In fact, internationally renowned companies not present at the last edition such as Rehau, Sibu Design, Swiss Krono to name but a few are returning to exhibit. 

Italian exhibitors also stand out at the 2025 edition. Thomas Rosolia, managing director of Koelnmesse Italy, said he was satisfied with the presence of Italian exhibitors: in fact, there will be as many as 275 on an exhibition area of 21,100 square meters, thus surpassing the German companies present this time as well, namely 220 on 19,000 square meters.

Central theme the circular economy

The guiding theme of interzum 2025 is “Rethinking Resources: Circular and Biobased Solutions” focusing on the circular economy and materials made from renewable sources. As Maik Fischer explained with this central theme, interzum promotes the development of product innovations that are both durable and produced from sustainable sources.

As usual, the program of events is very rich; again, the central theme “Rethinking Resources” is the focus of the Trend Stage and all the talks at the three interzum forums. “Biocircular Materials” is the theme addressed in the Materials & Nature segment, ‘Digital Product Passport: Pathway to Circularity’ the one for the Textile & Machinery segment while ‘Rethink Furniture - less, but better,’ the theme for Function & Components. Both speakers participating in the interzum Trend Stage and discussions in interzum's Trend Forums present ideas, studies and solutions designed to address market challenges.

Exhibiting companies oriented to the guiding theme 2025 can also present innovative products and ideas, displayed, during the event, in the North Boulevard that will be transformed into the “Rethinking Resources Boulevard” full of inspiring solutions for sustainable furniture production. 

The organizers expect more than 67,000 visitors from all over the world to attend, expressing high professionalism.

idd cologne 2025 and interzum forum italy 2026

The press conference was also an opportunity to present idd cologne, the new industry event for exclusive interior design that will debut in Cologne Oct. 26-29, 2025, and the second edition of interzum forum italy, scheduled for June 4 and 5, 2026, in Bergamo, Italy.