ISM 2026, which takes place from February 1 to 4 in Cologne, is already reporting strong early interest: four months before the start of the trade fair, floor space bookings have already exceeded the final level of ISM 2025. Companies from 71 countries and all continents have already confirmed their participation – a clear signal of the dynamism and international significance of the world’s leading trade fair for sweets and snacks.
New exhibitors in 2026 include, for example, companies from Albania, Bangladesh, Iran, and Luxembourg. Established international brands are also relying on continuity: Morinaga, one of Japan’s leading confectionery manufacturers, is returning after its successful premiere in 2025 and is significantly expanding its stand space. Walker’s Shortbread, a long-standing exhibitor in the UK pavilion, will once again be represented with its own booth, as in the previous year. Fazer will also be newly represented with its own stand, having previously been present with a lounge in the Europa Hall.
“That ISM 2026 has already surpassed the booking level of the previous event at this stage shows the high level of confidence the industry has in the trade fair. New country participations and the return of international market leaders confirm ISM’s position as the globally leading platform for trends, exchange, and business development,” emphasizes Sabine Schommer, Director of ISM.
High level of international participation: 37 joint stands from 27 countries and regions
With 37 joint stands from 27 countries and regions (ISM 2025: 34 from 25), ISM 2026 reaches a new record level of international participation. New country pavilions include two from Ukraine, organized by the Export Promotion Center KCCI LLC (Kyiv) and the Ukrainian Food Association U-Food (Uman), as well as a pavilion from Morocco, coordinated by FENAGRI – National Federation of the Agro-Food Industry (Casablanca).
ISM Functional Sweets celebrates its premiere
With the new themed area “ISM Functional Sweets,” ISM 2026 is focusing for the first time on functional confectionery. In the Lab5 by ISM in Hall 10.1, exhibitors will present products that combine health and well-being with enjoyment: from candies with vitamins and fruit gums with probiotics to herbal products for stress reduction. A special exhibition featuring information, product presentations, and tastings illustrates how modern confectionery is being conceived today – as small everyday helpers and part of a healthy lifestyle.
“Functional confectionery is not a short-lived trend, but an expression of a new consumer mindset: people are looking for products that combine enjoyment and well-being. This is exactly what ISM 2026 makes visible and tangible in the new special area,” says Sabine Schommer.
Experience innovations live: ISM Start-up Pitches Award 2026
In 2026, the Start-up Area in the Lab5 by ISM will once again provide exciting insights into the future of the confectionery and snack industry. A special highlight is the ISM Start-up Pitches Award 2026 on February 2, 2026, which will be presented for the first time as part of the trade fair. Eight selected start-ups will present their innovative ideas and products on the Talks & Tasting Stage in Hall 10.1. A panel of experts will evaluate the contributions and select the winner directly on stage. The pitches will be moderated by Robert Kronekker, food entrepreneur, investor, and start-up mentor, who will also support the participants during the preparation process.
Start-ups registered for ISM may apply for one of the slots until December 31, 2025. Further details regarding the application can be found here.
ISM Opening Night as a ceremonial kickoff
Another highlight is the ISM Opening Night, which for the first time will be open to all participants of ISM, ISM Ingredients, and ProSweets Cologne. Together with the honorary sponsors of ISM, Koelnmesse invites attendees on February 1, 2026, to the new Confex at the Cologne exhibition grounds. The evening will mark the festive opening of the trade fair and bring together the international sweets and snacks industry in a relaxed atmosphere – with live music, culinary highlights, and numerous networking opportunities. In addition, during the ISM Opening Night, an outstanding personality from the sweets and snacks industry will once again be honored with the ISM Award for their lifetime achievement.
