ILM, the International Leather Goods Trade Fair, returns in Offenbach from February 7 to 9, 2026, for its edition n. 163 presenting the Autumn/Winter 2026/27 collections.
Next year’s ILM will showcase a highly diverse mix of international collections in the handbags, luggage, school articles, and accessories segments. This goes hand in hand with a further rise in the number of premium brands: “ILM is a driving force. Many companies that had stayed away are now returning. They have recognised the significance of the trade fair and the important role it plays within the market, and that Offenbach is the only place where they can reliably reach their customers,” said Arnd Hinrich Kappe, ceo of Messe Offenbach, pleased with the strong interest from both national and international brands.
The focus at ILM Edition #163 will be especially on two key strong-selling product categories. Product developers from selected brands in the luggage and school articles sectors will be giving talks, presenting the new and functional highlights of their products. Retailers at Offenbach will thus be given exclusive information first-hand while at the same time gaining valuable insights into how they might generate enthusiasm and create a buying experience. Inspiring lectures and seminars on trends, with practical ideas for ordering and selling, will also provide a source of in-depth knowledge.
“ILM is and remains an event that is exclusively designed for retailers,” commented Arnd Hinrich Kappe. TV presenter and fashion icon Frauke Ludowig will be making an exclusive appearance at Messe Offenbach to introduce fashion-minded end consumers to the trends and glamour in the trade fair halls. As a trendsetter, she will be on the lookout for stylish highlights and will be sharing the latest trends with a wider audience, online, but also and particularly live and on site: “In addition to wide-coverage social media activities, there will be an exclusive live discussion with Frauke Ludowig as well,” said Kappe.
Designing retail spaces creatively, evoking emotions, and making a lasting impression with state-of-the-art event technology will be key features of ILM Edition #163. The setting will be animated with a gigantic bag in the entrance area, and a 360-degree video camera will be a further major attraction. Exhibitors and visitors will be able to create their personal all-round videos in the foyer of the ILM and share them on social networks. “This will guarantee a high level of entertainment value,” added Arnd Hinrich Kappe. As a result of cooperation with the Satis&fy agency, one of the international market leaders for live communication and brand experience, professionally designed areas will be on display at ILM, including an illuminated park landscape in which to linger creatively or conduct business talks. In terms of gastronomy, too, ILM will be treading new ground with a mobile catering concept.
The recently agreed cooperation with the Travel Goods Association will attract not only more than 20 new brands, mainly from the outdoor segment, to Offenbach, but also many trade visitors from the USA.
Besides the after-work parties, the “hidden highlight” on February 8 will be a further meeting point for the major players in the industry, where 20 selected exhibitors, including innovative brands and newcomers, will have the opportunity to invite their key customers to a get-together with a flying buffet in Hall A1.
Parallel to ILM, the international consumer goods trade fair “Ambiente” will be taking place in Frankfurt from February 6 to 10, 2026.
ILM Edition #163
February 7 - 9, 2026
Messe Offenbach GmbH
Kaiserstrasse 108-112
63065 Offenbach am Main
