Friday, January 9, 2026
INTERFORST, one of the world’s leading international trade fairs for forestry and forest technology, is set to take place from October 15 to 18, 2026 at the Münich exhibition grounds. With a renewed leadership team and expert support from industry professionals, the event is gearing up to provide essential insights and solutions for the forestry sector. The fair will feature practical solutions, technological advancements, and sustainable approaches to forest management.
Petra Westphal returns to Messe München as the Exhibition Director for INTERFORST. Westphal has significant experience with the event, having supported it in the past. In her new role, she is dedicated to further developing INTERFORST, with a clear focus on climate-resilient forest structures and innovative forestry solutions. “I am delighted to be back on board, focusing entirely on the forestry industry’s needs,” says Westphal, emphasizing the importance of practical and future-oriented solutions.
The new team brings a wealth of experience to the table. Jasmin Regiert, who has been with the INTERFORST team since 2012, brings a deep understanding of the forestry sector. Regiert’s extensive network within the industry helps ensure that the event remains closely aligned with the requirements of exhibitors and trade visitors. Anita Mayr and Daniela Bohrer-Glas, both of whom have years of experience in trade fair management, complete the leadership team.
To further enhance the strategic direction of INTERFORST, Ralf Dreeke (Wahlers Forsttechnik) and Gert Unterreiner (Unterreiner Forstgeräte) will serve as the chairman and deputy chairman of the advisory board. The advisory board plays a pivotal role in shaping the trade fair’s future by offering expert insights. Notable companies such as Komatsu, Stihl, Palfinger, and MMForsttechnik are also part of the advisory board, lending their expertise to help guide the event’s direction.
Additionally, a committee of institutions and associations supports the development of the supporting programme. The committee includes prominent organizations such as the Bavarian State Forestry Department, German Agricultural Society, Technical University of Munich, and University of Göttingen, which will help design key themes for the event. This collaboration ensures that INTERFORST remains a valuable platform for exchanging knowledge and fostering collaboration between science, industry, and politics.
INTERFORST 2026 will cover the entire forestry value chain, from afforestation and timber harvesting to sawmills and the energetic use of wood. With a focus on sustainable forest management and climate adaptation, the event will provide visitors with innovative solutions for creating more resilient forest structures in the face of climate change. The fair will be a hub for machine manufacturers, service providers, and associations to discuss the future of forestry.
The trade fair will be hosted in Hall B6 and will also utilize parts of the outdoor area, covering a total of 75,000 square meters. This extensive space will feature a wide variety of exhibitors showcasing the latest forest technology, machine innovations, and sustainable practices. The event aims to offer practical, market-ready solutions for the forestry industry while fostering a space for networking and collaboration among key players.
One of the key highlights of INTERFORST 2026 will be its focus on practical solutions for forest conversion, ensuring that forestry practices are better equipped to handle the challenges posed by climate change. The fair will present the latest technological developments, allowing stakeholders to explore innovative approaches to sustainable forest management. As climate-resilient solutions take centre stage, the event will focus on technologies and strategies that reduce environmental impacts while ensuring economic viability for the forestry sector.
The fair will also feature numerous forums, congresses, and special shows, which will cover a range of critical topics, including climate change adaptation, wood energy, and forest biodiversity. These events will offer opportunities for learning, sharing knowledge, and discussing pressing issues facing the forestry industry.
INTERFORST’s strategic focus is to remain an integral part of the global forestry trade fair circuit. It is one of the leading events for the forestry sector, attracting professionals from across the world. Messe München, known for organizing some of the world’s most renowned trade fairs, brings a wealth of expertise to INTERFORST, ensuring it remains at the forefront of forest technology and sustainable forestry practices.
Alongside INTERFORST, Messe München also organizes events like bauma, IFAT, and electronica, further solidifying its position as a key player in the international trade fair industry. The company’s extensive network of affiliates and foreign representatives ensures that it can continue to bring global innovations to the forestry market, while fostering international collaboration and business development.
INTERFORST 2026 promises to be an exciting event that brings together industry leaders, technology providers, and experts to address the challenges and opportunities in the forestry sector. With a refreshed leadership team, expert support from the advisory board, and a strong focus on sustainable practices and climate adaptation, the trade fair is set to continue its legacy as one of the most important platforms for the global forestry industry.
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Tags: forest management, Forest Technology, forestry industry, Forestry Technology, forestry trade fair, INTERFORST, INTERFORST 2026, sustainable forestry, wood energy
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