WEINIG, Leitz, Hettich, Blum, Häfele reconfirm their participation at HOLZ-HANDWERK 2026. Altendorf, Festool, Mafell return to the fair, signaling optimism in the industry

With less than six months to go until the opening of HOLZ-HANDWERK 2026, major companies from the woodworking industry are reconfirming their presence in Nuremberg. Stefan Dittrich, Managing Director of HOLZ-HANDWERK, explains why this loyalty demonstrates the industry's confidence in the future, despite the current economic challenges.

Mr. Dittrich, the countdown is on - HOLZ-HANDWERK 2026 starts in just six months. How are preparations going and what is the current state of registration?

Stefan Dittrich: Preparations for HOLZ-HANDWERK 2026 are in full swing. We are in the process of expanding the formats that have been successful, but of course we are also incorporating new ideas and concepts. We are very pleased with the number of registrations so far. Despite the current economic challenges, the industry is looking to the future.

Many exhibitors from previous years remain loyal to us, including WEINIG/HOLZ-HER, Leitz, Hettich, Blum, Pytha, Häfele, Grass, Shaper and Stürmer. Returning exhibitors include Altendorf, Otto Martin, Geronne, Festool and Mafell. The list of exhibitors on our website is growing and will be updated regularly. Those who have not yet secured booth space should register as soon as possible. The first hall floor plans are now online.

What does it mean for the industry that these established names are reconfirming their participation in the current economic context?

Stefan Dittrich: It is a very strong signal of confidence. When we talk about companies like WEINIG/HOLZ-HER or Leitz, we are talking about global leaders who don't make participation decisions at random. The fact that these giants are investing in their presence at HOLZ-HANDWERK 2026 shows that they see real value in this platform and are optimistic about the future of the industry. This is a confirmation that our sector, although facing challenges, remains solid and growth-oriented.

Today's woodworkers are faced with rising production and energy costs, more difficult supply of materials and changing customer demands. What opportunities and space does HOLZ-HANDWERK as a trade fair offer for exhibitors and visitors to cope with problems like these?

Stefan Dittrich: HOLZ-HANDWERK offers exhibitors and visitors numerous opportunities to meet the current challenges facing woodworkers and to actively shape their future. Our research from 2024 already shows that HOLZ-HANDWERK is perceived positively in particular due to the following aspects:

Networking: Many participants appreciate the opportunity to make new contacts and exchange ideas with experts. This helps the community discuss challenges and develop solutions. Here people talk openly about rising costs, material bottlenecks and new customer requirements.

High number and quality of visitors: The fair attracts a large and knowledgeable audience, enabling exhibitors to reach their target groups effectively and attract new contacts from various sectors.

Diversity of exhibitors: The presence of versatile exhibitors gives visitors the opportunity to get comprehensive information on new products and trends and to take ideas from the supporting program.

What is the HOLZ-HANDWERK motto and how is this motto lived in the field? What is your personal impression of it?

Stefan Dittrich: HOLZ-HANDWERK's motto is "Discover. Experience. Do." - "Discover. Experience. Do." At HOLZ-HANDWERK, both exhibitors and visitors can fully immerse themselves in the industry. What matters is customer proximity, and this can best be experienced through personal contact and dialog. The fair is a place where manufacturers and users communicate on the same level.

Machines, tools and materials are used then, on site and can often be tested in person. It's not just a place for talking, but for cutting, milling and sanding. The craft is presented in all its dynamics. Sawdust sometimes flies through the hall. This makes a visit to the fair a unique experience.

I am always happy when the first visitors enter the halls, when they see familiar faces again and, above all, when there are many interesting conversations. I'm particularly excited about the new HOLZ-HANDWERK Arena this time, because it enhances the experience of our trade fair participants. As a multi-purpose area, it offers the opportunity to experience products, best practices and trends up close, while providing a setting for dialog and networking.

What will be new at the 2026 edition?

Stefan Dittrich: The 2026 edition will again be supported by numerous projects. These include the new HOLZ-HANDWERK Arena that I mentioned, the Material and Product Show, the HOLZ-HANDWERK Campus for further training and career opportunities, as well as the Young Innovators Stand for start-ups, which will be shared with the FENSTERBAU FRONT.

HOLZ-HANDWERK will take place from 24-27 March 2026 at the Nuremberg Exhibition Centre in parallel with FENSTERBAU FRONTALE and is organized by VDMA (the German woodworking machinery manufacturers' association) and NürnbergMesse GmbH. More information on www.holz-handwerk.de/en.