The HOLZ-HANDWERK and FENSTERBAU FRONTALE 2026 trade fair duo wrapped up successfully after four dynamic and inspiring days, marked by a noticeable surge in energy, a vibrant buzz throughout the halls, and a significant increase in exhibitors compared to the previous event. From March 24 to 27, Nuremberg once again became the epicenter of the international window, door, façade, and woodworking industries.
With around 75,000 visitors from 117 countries and 1,022 exhibitors from 47 countries, the trade fair duo has confirmed its role as a central industry meeting place and as a platform that provides guidance, showcases innovations and jointly develops future strategies. The next event is already scheduled for March 28 to 31, 2028.
This year’s event impressively demonstrated the importance of face-to-face interaction and hands-on technology for an industry amid transformation. Packed halls at the Nuremberg Exhibition Centre, impressive stands, in-depth discussions and a top-class supporting programme characterised the event throughout all four days.
Both events combined practical knowledge-sharing, strategic future-oriented topics and international expertise – a combination that clearly delighted visitors.
Strong voices from the exhibition management
Stefan Dittrich, Director Exhibition HOLZ-HANDWERK, draws a thoroughly positive conclusion: “These four days have impressively demonstrated just how much energy and innovative spirit there is within the craft sector. The atmosphere on site was fantastic. HOLZ-HANDWERK 2026 has once again proven that personal interaction and the discovery of innovative technologies are indispensable for carpenters and joiners. This underlines the importance of this trade fair as a central meeting place for the community.”
Elke Harreiß, Executive Director FENSTERBAU FRONTALE, emphasises the added value of joint industry dialogue:
“The atmosphere thrives on the passion of this industry. FENSTERBAU FRONTALE is the place where the community finds its bearings, draws inspiration and develops further. The fact that the trade fair duo has grown demonstrates the high level of synergy and just how important this exchange is, particularly at this time. My special thanks go to all the exhibitors, whose commitment and presence have contributed significantly to this strong collective result.”
Chiara Sträßner, Director Exhibition FENSTERBAU FRONTALE, sums it up: “Our new formats – from the Stage and the Innovation Award to the Future Room – have demonstrated the shared value we can create: sharing knowledge, connecting perspectives and fostering genuine inspiration. The many positive discussions and strong response confirm that Nuremberg is the right place for the industry to move forward together and shape the future.”
A supporting programme that set new standards
For the first time in 2026, HOLZ-HANDWERK, organised in collaboration with the VDMA Woodworking Machinery Association and supported by the Bavarian Association of Cabinetmakers (FSH), offered visitors a dynamic, dialogue-driven programme. In the newly introduced HOLZ-HANDWERK Arena, supported by the trade magazine dds, up-and-coming talents, established craft businesses, and industry experts engaged in discussions on current challenges surrounding training, digitalisation, and material usage. The Arena not only provided a comprehensive snapshot of the industry’s current state but also offered a forward-looking perspective, showcasing how modern craft businesses will evolve and highlighting the key topics set to shape the industry in the coming years.
Another highlight was the Material Show curated by FSH, which showcased innovative materials for the joinery trade and provided fresh inspiration for design.
The HOLZ-HANDWERK Campus also provided a valuable overview of technical training pathways and further education opportunities. Universities, vocational colleges and other institutions presented modern teaching content and demonstrated just how diverse and future-proof careers in the woodworking trade are.
Supported by the trade association for ‘Glass, Window, and Facade Baden-Württemberg’ and the state guild association of the Bavarian glazier trade, FENSTERBAU FRONTALE captivated attendees with a comprehensive, internationally-focused programme addressing key challenges in the construction industry. The newly introduced FENSTERBAU FRONTAU Stage highlighted crucial topics such as energy-efficient refurbishment, mass production, climate adaptation, the circular economy, and digital planning processes. Additionally, the FENSTERBAU FRONTALE Forum provided a dedicated platform for in-depth specialist knowledge and practical insights.
A particular highlight was the first-ever presentation of the FENSTERBAU FRONTALE Innovation Award on stage, which recognised outstanding product developments. This year’s winner, Remmers GmbH, was selected from a total of 39 entries and honoured for its innovation, the Induline I-130. At the FENSTERBAU FRONTALE Forum, the titles of ‘Window Manufacturer of the Year 2026’ were awarded to MB Fensterbau Beelitz GmbH as well as the ‘MeisterAward’ to Hendryk Urban and Lisa-Marie Schmiedle.
At AIT-Dialog’s international ‘Architecture-Window-Facade’ forum, this year’s theme ‘Balance – Building in Equilibrium’ focused on changing planning requirements and sustainable construction methods. Following the event, guided tours provided an opportunity to explore the topics in greater depth through direct discussions with relevant exhibitors.
Strong synergy between the trade fair duo
The newly introduced ‘Future Room’, a collaborative effort by HOLZ-HANDWERK, FENSTERBAU FRONTALE, and 100 PROZENT DIGITAL, featured innovative digital office concepts, AI-driven planning, smart building technologies, and forward-thinking topics on leadership, emerging talent, and organizational development.
The jointly curated ‘Focus Interior Doors’ programme, organised in collaboration with the trade magazine BM, provided a compelling demonstration of how aesthetics, functionality and innovation can be combined in modern door solutions. The programme was complemented by special guided tours.
The 2026 trade fair duo has impressively demonstrated that HOLZ-HANDWERK and FENSTERBAU FRONTALE give the industry a strong voice. They remain the central meeting place where innovations are showcased, networks grow and trends are set.
The community is looking ahead – united, connected and full of creative drive.
Image and Content Courtesy: HOLZ-HANDWERK
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