Hardware Retailing The Industry's Source for Insights and Information
Attendees from 125 countries gathered in Cologne, Germany, from March 3-6, 2026, for the EISENWARENMESSE – International Hardware Fair 2026. Around 33,000 visitors attended the event, and the new Tuesday to Friday schedule was well-received by attendees, more closely aligning with traditional business days.
“As a central industry start, the EISENWARENMESSE – International Hardware Fair is for many companies a decisive point in time in the innovation and decision cycle,” says Oliver Frese, chief operating officer of Koelnmesse GmbH. “Assortments are planned, partnerships solidified and strategic courses set on location. This year’s event has shown that the need for personal exchange and reliable orientation in the market environment remains consistently high. With formats like the EISENworkshop, we are consistently developing the trade fair further and also shifting the target group of professional end users more into focus.”
The show focused on top trends in the international hardware industry, including sustainability, digitalization and efficiency. Safety-focused tools and compact, multifunctional products were highlighted, along with an emphasis on smart control systems and AI-based technologies.
The EISENaward was presented to three innovative products, including Weidmüller’s Crimp Counter, the ECOSAW from G-Man and the ABUS Everox One 61/55/G3 padlock from August Bremicker Sohne. The 63 nominated products were displayed at the show.
“The EISENWARENMESSE – International Hardware Fair is changing, and that’s a good thing,” says Dr. Peter Wüst, managing director of the Retailers’ Association for Home Improvement, building and gardening. “The new sequence of days considers the needs of exhibitors and visitors and makes the weekend a protected space. Innovations, safety, user comfort, sustainability, the industry focus DIY Boulevard, as well as many events and award ceremonies, make this trade fair an indispensable must for all those who wish to join together to orient the industry and its companies to customers and market needs and are thereby also seeking an intensive exchange in addition to products and solutions.“
Dan Tratensek, chief operation officer of the North American Hardware and Paint Association (NHPA) attended the event, noting the value of connecting with the international hardware market.
“As an ambassador for the North American Hardware and Paint Association, I think it is always a privilege to attend global events like the International Hardware Fair,” Tratensek says. “I have been to this show multiple times and I always come away with meaningful insights. Talking to retailers from other parts of the world, seeing trends as they develop abroad and learning about how the home improvement industry is evolving throughout the world is incredibly valuable and provides an entirely new perspective.”
The next EISENWARENMESSE – International Hardware Fair will take place from March 7 to 10, 2028, in Cologne, once again from Tuesday to Friday.
