The global meetings and events industry reached new heights this week as the 21st edition of IMEX Frankfurt concluded on May 22, 2025. Held at the iconic Messe Frankfurt, this landmark event drew more than 13,000 participants from around the world, including over 4,000 high-value meetings and events buyers, making it one of the most impactful editions in the event’s history.
Marking its largest show floor to date, IMEX Frankfurt 2025 facilitated over 67,000 pre-scheduled meetings across three days. The sharp 10% increase in one-to-one meetings compared to 2024 highlighted not only robust global demand but also a renewed appreciation for face-to-face interaction in a post-pandemic business environment.
A Pulse Check on the Global Events Industry
The mood on the show floor was energetic and optimistic. Industry professionals from every continent engaged in meaningful dialogue, forging new partnerships and reaffirming existing ones. This momentum underscored a shared belief in the power of in-person events to generate creative ideas, foster trust, and drive real business outcomes.
Heledd Williams, Head of Business Events at Meet In Wales, captured the spirit of the event succinctly:
“Meeting people in person is priceless. Nothing can replace it. Being here makes you feel things—it sparks unique ideas, you feel part of a community. We collaborate and share our challenges. In that way, our industry is very unique.”
Similarly, Tracy Halliwell MBE, Director of Tourism and Conventions at the London Convention Bureau, remarked on the exceptional response to London’s presence this year.
“Our stand attracted more interest than ever, with more than 750 pre-scheduled meetings. The involvement of London’s Deputy Mayor for Business and Growth highlighted our commitment to the new London Growth Plan. We’re thrilled to turn these engagements into tangible benefits for our city.”
Trust, Transparency, and Human-Centric Design Take Center Stage
The Inspiration Hub, IMEX’s dedicated platform for education and thought leadership, was a cornerstone of the event. Event professionals packed sessions focused on emerging themes such as trust and transparency, experiential design, emotional journey planning, and psychological safety—each playing a vital role in shaping future event strategies.
In one standout session, Alexandra Howar, Director of Business Development at InVision Communications, stated:
“Transparency is the currency of trust.”
She emphasized the importance of planners and suppliers working collaboratively across the value chain to streamline processes and create more memorable, human-centered experiences.
The Human Element Remains Central
One of the most repeated sentiments at the show was the irreplaceable value of personal interaction. Claudia Kliem, Senior Manager of Group Sales at BWH Hotel Group, expressed it well:
“MICE business is people’s business… the personal touch is what makes the difference. To tell our story face to face is even better—it allows us to connect with relevance and sincerity.”
This focus on relationship-building, a key tenet of the MICE industry (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions), reinforced the role of IMEX Frankfurt as more than just a trade show—it’s a global gathering point for shared progress and innovation.
Looking Ahead: Frankfurt as World Design Capital 2026
As the IMEX Group sets its sights on future editions, Frankfurt’s recent designation as the World Design Capital 2026 presents a fresh horizon for collaboration. This title acknowledges Frankfurt’s innovation in urban and experiential design, creating exciting possibilities for IMEX to integrate design thinking more deeply into the show’s programming.
Carina Bauer, CEO of the IMEX Group, emphasized the significance of this synergy:
“Design isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about problem-solving and enhancing human experience. As Frankfurt prepares for its role as World Design Capital, IMEX is uniquely positioned to explore how thoughtful design can transform events and elevate attendee engagement.”
Final Thoughts
IMEX Frankfurt 2025 proved to be a landmark edition—not only in size and attendance but in the palpable sense of community, collaboration, and creative renewal that echoed throughout Messe Frankfurt’s halls.
As the global travel and meetings industry continues to recover and evolve, the message from IMEX is clear: the future of business events is human-centric, trust-based, and design-forward. With the next edition already generating buzz, IMEX continues to cement its position as the essential catalyst for growth, innovation, and connection in the global events calendar.
