Press information of ISM

New branding from 2027 integrates all segments of the sweets and snacks production under the umbrella of the ISM brand +++ Efficient processes and more networking options for the industry +++ Production processes can be experienced on-site +++ ISM Ingredients already commences in 2026

Top-class exhibitor portfolio +++ Record number of country pavilions +++ New participations strengthen the international profile +++ ISM Opening Night kicks off the trade fair week +++ Product tastings, lectures, creator formats and further highlights

Around 80 companies from 27 countries expected for the premiere of ISM Ingredients +++ Number of exhibiting companies has nearly tripled +++ Plant based as an innovation motor, with a focus on functional sweets

High demand: Exhibition space booked already exceeds previous event +++ Premiere in 2026: ISM Ingredients launches as an independent format +++ ISM Opening Night forms the festive prelude of the fair +++ ISM Start-up Pitches Award puts the spotlight on innovations +++ Diverse new programme highlights set new focuses in terms of content

+++ Around four months before the opening of the fair, ISM 2026 has already topped the end result of ISM 2025 +++ New countries and brands on the exhibition space +++ Premiere of the "ISM Functional Sweets" theme area+++ Expert jury selects winner of the ISM Start-up Pitches Award for the first time +++ New ISM Opening Night in the Confex

Innovations, world premieres and global participation await the trade visitors in 2026

New trade fair format places the focus on ingredients. Exhibitors will present solutions for more resilience and sustainability.

Successful early bird phase underlines the industry's interest +++ ISM Ingredients has its finger on the pulse of the industry +++ Focus on functionality, sustainability and innovation +++ Close interlinking between ISM and ProSweets Cologne +++ Top brands like Brenntag, Döhler, GNT and Olam already confirmed as exhibitors

Early bird figures clearly exceed previous year +++ More than 10% growth in exhibition space +++ New trend section ISM Functional Sweets celebrates premiere +++ Leading international brands confirm participation

ISM as a mirror of a globally booming industry in spite of the growing challenges +++ Optimism and innovative spirit determine the atmosphere +++ ISM demonstrates its ability to adapt with new formats like the Creator Day and the Sweet Week Talks & Tasting Stage.