ISM 2025, the world’s leading confectionery trade fair, which concluded in Cologne, drew 1,513 exhibitors from 70 countries and approximately 32,000 trade visitors, marking a 5.5% increase in exhibitor numbers and a 7% rise in attendance from the previous year.
Despite ongoing challenges including soaring cocoa prices and increasing regulatory burdens, the industry’s optimistic outlook was evident throughout the four-day event. The exhibition space grew by 5% compared to last year, with international participants comprising 89% of exhibitors.
“With an increased number of visitors and exhibitors as well as a growing amount of exhibition space, the clear upwards trend of ISM is ongoing,” said Gerald Böse, President and Chief Executive Officer of Koelnmesse GmbH. “As the global trendsetter and driver of innovations and trends, ISM sets benchmarks for the global booming sweets and snacks industry.”
The trade show opened with high-level discussions on the Mercosur Trade Agreement, featuring EU Chief Negotiator Rupert Schlegelmilch among other key stakeholders. The event’s international draw was particularly strong among European nations, with Belgium, Great Britain, Italy, the Netherlands, and Spain showing strong representation. Notable growth in attendance was also seen from Cyprus, Israel, Mexico, and Romania.
Major retail giants including Walmart, Aldi, Rewe Group, and SPAR International were among the attendees, reflecting the event’s significance in the global retail landscape. The exhibition showcased emerging industry trends, with particular focus on sustainability, health-conscious products, and convenient snacking options.
Running parallel to ISM, the ProSweets Cologne exhibition created what organizers called the “Sweet Week,” representing the entire industry value chain from raw materials to finished products. The combination proved particularly effective, according to industry leaders.
Bastian Fassin, Chairman of the International Sweets and Biscuits Fair Task Force, emphasized the trade show’s crucial role during challenging times: “In times of economic uncertainty, continued extraordinarily high cocoa prices and growing bureaucratic burdens, ISM is presenting itself as a strong partner and platform for the industry.”
The event featured several new initiatives, including Lab5 by ISM, which highlighted innovative startups and trend-setting products. The Sweet Week Talks & Tasting Stage offered interactive sessions with industry experts, including renowned food futurist Hanni Rützler and celebrity chef Johann Lafer.
The next ISM is scheduled for February 1-4, 2026, in Cologne.
Find out more at: https://www.ism-cologne.com/fair/industry-trade-fairs/