IMEX Frankfurt 2026, Europe’s leading trade show for the global meetings, events and incentive travel industry, opened today (May 19) with a refreshed exhibition environment as attendees explore newly redesigned halls showcasing immersive experiences, networking opportunities, and education sessions across the show floor.

The event is taking place until May 21 at Messe Frankfurt in Germany.

The day is beginning in Hall 9 and Hall 8, where exhibitors are creating interactive activations designed to encourage networking among meetings and events professionals from around the world.

Industry attendees are continuing to reconnect with peers while engaging with new exhibition features and installations.

In the morning education programme, the International Association of Conference Centres Meetings CEO Mark Cooper is presenting findings from the organisation’s latest global research during a session at the MPI and ICCA learning space, focusing on the future of meeting room design and evolving industry expectations.

Further discussions on human-centred event design are taking place in the Inspiration Hub, where speakers from American Express Global Business Travel are exploring how event planning can better reflect attendee needs and improve overall experience outcomes.

Country showcases are adding cultural highlights throughout the day, including activations from Kazakhstan featuring traditional hospitality experiences, and presentations from PromPerú highlighting Peru’s cultural heritage through storytelling and textile traditions.

The Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau is also hosting wellness-focused activities centred on herbal tea experiences.

Attendees are able to take breaks in the newly redesigned food areas while continuing informal networking throughout the venue.

Later in the day, discussions on inclusive event design are featuring speakers from VisitScotland, LGBT MPA, and C2 Events, focusing on how diversity and inclusion strategies contribute to stronger event outcomes.

Throughout the exhibition, real-time content summaries are being provided via Snapsight across multiple education theatres, helping attendees keep track of sessions and key insights.

The day is concluding with evening networking at CIMclubbing@IMEX, featuring entertainment and social activities, as the industry gathers for informal engagement after a full day of sessions. -TradeArabia News Service