An industrial sector cannot overcome a crisis with mere words; it must tackle it head-on. With this determination, the ILM is preparing the launch of its 164th edition, scheduled for August 29 to 31, 2026, at the Messe Offenbach exhibition center.

The 164th edition of ILM: the concrete response to the challenges of the leather goods industry

Offenbach will once again become the international meeting place for brands, retailers, and industry decision-makers from all over the world. Not because everything has suddenly become easier, but because face-to-face interaction is more important than ever, particularly in difficult times. “We cannot change the economic circumstances. But we can decide how we deal with them,” said Arnd Hinrich Kappe, ceo of Messe Offenbach. “That is precisely why our industry needs spaces where people can come together, exchange ideas and shape the future together. That is exactly what ILM stands for.”

In a rapidly transforming global landscape, the new edition of ILM reaffirms its key role as an indispensable commercial and networking platform for the global leather goods and fashion accessories industry.

The ILM Award returns: the new market-oriented format

Among the novelties, the ILM Award is making a comeback after several years, but with a fundamentally revised concept. Instead of categorising products into numerous categories, the award will now focus on one crucial question: Which product is most relevant to the market? The focus is therefore no longer on whether a product belongs to a specific segment, but on whether it genuinely drives the retail sector forward and wins over end consumers.

The winners will be selected by an independent panel of judges consisting of industry expert Karolina Landowski, retail expert Tobias Kurz and industry specialist Ralf Maurer, who will assess the entries solely based on criteria such as innovation, market relevance and potential for the retail sector. The three most outstanding products will be honoured on Saturday evening at the ILM After-Work Party. For the first time, the Product Award is being complemented by a Retail Award, which focuses specifically on the retail sector. Around 300 exhibitors were asked in advance to nominate their five most important retail partners. Based on this vote, three awards will be presented to retailers who, in the brands’ view, have demonstrated outstanding commitment, reliability and a spirit of partnership.

Star guest and media reach: Frauke and Nele Ludowig on the ILM stage

Personal encounters run like a common thread through the entire trade fair, including on stage. TV presenter Frauke Ludowig returns to the ILM alongside her daughter, Nele Ludowig. In a personal on-stage conversation, moderated by Cheryll Mühlen, the pair will discuss their connection to the fashion world, joint projects and a behind-the-scenes look at their work together. The appearance will be complemented by a joint tour through the trade fair and the ILM Award ceremony on Saturday evening. In this way, the ILM is deliberately bridging the gap between industry expertise, media reach and direct exchange.

Formats outside the exhibition hall are also continuing to gain in importance. Following its successful debut, the Hidden Highlight is entering its second round, bringing together selected retailers and exhibitors in an exclusive setting. At the same time, over 10 content creators and media professionals are providing additional visibility far beyond the traditional trade media through their diverse perspectives.

International partnerships and growth of the luggage sector

ILM is developing its key focus areas. In collaboration with the Travel Goods Association (TGA), the trade fair is placing particular emphasis on strengthening the luggage, outdoor and functional accessories sectors. This international partnership brings additional brands and fresh impulses to Offenbach and underlines the growing importance of this segment within the international specialist retail sector.

The ILM sees itself as a platform for international business, personal exchange and new formats, and thus as a meeting place for an industry that is once again looking to the future.

ILM 64
August 29 to 31, 2026
Messe Offenbach exhibition center