From the outset, INTERNORGA as a whole was characterised by packed halls, lively discussions and numerous innovations. The opening day already highlighted the industry’s strong demand for innovation and the trade fair’s increased international reach. Particular focus was on the newly structured Hall B5. For the first time in six years, exhibitors from the Startups & Drinks area were there again, alongside the Newcomers’ Area, the Future Food trend area and the What The Food! – by foodlab stage. The programme was complemented by the topic of robotics and the Deep Dive Area, as well as the OFF THE RECORD after-work lounge, which offered additional networking opportunities on three evenings. ‘It’s impressive to see how much the “new” hall has developed in such a short space of time. The mix of startups, newcomers, drinks, future food and future-oriented topics such as robotics has created a dynamic that fits perfectly with INTERNORGA,’ said Matthias Balz, Director of INTERNORGA. ‘For me, it is very much symbolic of the innovative strength, sense of optimism and enormous energy that this trade fair and the entire industry exude this year.’
Fresh input for the industry – from Green Hospitality to WeinWelt
With the restructuring of the exhibition areas, Living & Dining gained significantly more floor space and was represented across five halls for the first time in 2026. This meant that furnishings, fittings and future-oriented hospitality concepts received even more attention, flanked by the new Green Hospitality Conference on sustainable approaches. The subject of wine, an increasingly important element of the modern restaurant scene, was given a significantly larger platform this year. Alongside the Wine Tasting Lounge by Pese-Wein, which offered professional tastings and expert discussion, the new WeinWelt celebrated its premiere. In cooperation with weinWEBER, around 30 winemakers presented their collections and met with keen interest from visitors.
Positive feedback from all sectors of the industry
The strong demand and lively discussions on the show floor were also reflected among the exhibitors: ‘For us as exhibitors, INTERNORGA 2026 was once again a success. Despite challenging conditions, we not only experienced a stable trade show but also enjoyed high quality conversations and a level of response that genuinely exceeded our expectations. The atmosphere was shaped by real questions about the future and an inspiring sense of togetherness – and that is exactly what makes INTERNORGA so valuable to us,’ said Christian Strootman, Chairman of the INTERNORGA Trade Fair Advisory Board and Managing Director at Zwiesel Fortessa AG. According to the initial findings of an independent market research institute, the round 85,000 visitors agreed: 92% of the surveyed participants were very satisfied with the trade fair and 94% would recommend it to others.
Hamburg as an international hub for hospitality and foodservice
With four national pavilions and 25% of exhibitors coming from abroad, INTERNORGA 2026 underlined its growing international significance. ‘The participation of people from around the world shows just how relevant INTERNORGA is far beyond Germany’s borders,’ said Heiko M. Stutzinger, CEO of Hamburg Messe und Congress. ‘It combines global perspectives with the unique atmosphere of Hamburg – a city that has always embraced exchange and openness. It is exactly that blend that makes INTERNORGA a place where the future can be shaped.’
The next INTERNORGA will take place from 12 to 16 March 2027.
The figures presented are based on an extrapolation from the last day of the trade fair, as of 12 p.m., and are provisional. You can view photos of the highlights from INTERNORGA here now, and statements from selected INTERNORGA exhibitors will be available from 19 March under ‘Exhibitor opinions’.
Press material for download: https://hmc.canto.de/b/OFQUV
