
Pro listing
International Trade Fair for Retail Promotions and Imports
The 41st International Trade Fair for Retail Promotions and Imports (IAW) takes place 8–10 September 2026 in Cologne, Germany.
The 41st International Trade Fair for Retail Promotions and Imports (IAW) takes place 8–10 September 2026 in Cologne, Germany.
The International Trade Fair for Retail Promotions and Imports (IAW) is Germany's largest trade fair for promotional goods and a leading European platform for the retail sector- 14 . Held twice a year in March and September, the September 2026 edition marks the 41st iteration of the event- 5 . The fair brings together international exhibitors—including major importers and manufacturers from across Europe—who showcase promotional items, standard ranges, discontinued goods, remaining stock, and special items from nearly all product groups- 14 .
At a glance
- Europe's No.1 trading platform for promotional and imported goods, held twice a year in.
- 41st edition runs 8–10 September 2026 in Halls 6 and 9 of Koelnmesse- 5.
- Over 300 international exhibitors from nearly 30 countries and around 6,000 trade visitors from.
- 30,000 m² exhibition space covering 18+ product categories from food and electronics to private.
- Dedicated E-Commerce Arena with expert presentations and practical tips for online retail- 1 .
Product categories
- Food and drinks
- Toiletries and cosmetics
- Textiles and clothing
- Household goods and office supplies
- Toys and games
- Seasonal and trend articles
- Electronic goods and computers
- DIY supplies and hardware
- Small furniture and accessories
- Gift and novelty items, jewellery and watches
- Gardening articles
- Flowers and plants
- Sports and leisure articles
- Pet supplies
- Private label / own brands
- Retail services / E-commerce
Exhibitor profile
- Manufacturers and suppliers of promotional goods, bargain products, and standard retail ranges- 2
- Importers and international trading companies, particularly from Europe- 14
- Wholesalers of overstock, remaining stock, discontinued lines, and clearance goods- 1
- Producers of private‑label / own‑brand products across all consumer categories- 2
- E‑commerce solution providers, retail service companies, and technology vendors- 2
- First‑time exhibitors and emerging brands seeking entry into the German and European retail market- 1
Visitor profile
- Buyers and purchasing managers from consumer markets, discounters, and supermarket chains- 2
- Procurement professionals from buying organisations, furniture and DIY stores, and garden centres- 2
- E‑commerce merchants, online shop owners, and mail‑order company representatives- 2
- Independent retailers and store owners across all retail sectors- 2
- Wholesale and distribution professionals seeking promotional and imported goods- 14
- Retail decision‑makers looking for private‑label manufacturing partners and new product lines- 13
Why exhibit
Exhibiting at the IAW offers direct access to around 6,000 qualified trade buyers from discounters, supermarket chains, buying organisations, furniture. As Europe's No.1 trading platform for promotional and imported goods, the fair delivers profitable business deals and high‑quality leads in. Exhibitors benefit from a diverse international audience seeking both standard ranges and special offers, including overstock, clearance, and private-label products-. The E‑Commerce Arena and Trendforum provide additional visibility and speaking opportunities- 26 . The organisers offer comprehensive support, including free catering for exhibitors and guests, digital visitor invitations, and a PR package with. First‑time exhibitors receive a special package including stand construction and promotion- 2 .
Why visit
The IAW is Germany's largest trade fair for promotional goods and a one‑stop sourcing hub for retail buyers- 14 . Visitors can discover the latest trends and innovative products across 18+ categories—from food and electronics to textiles, private label, and. The fair brings together over 300 international exhibitors, including Europe's largest importers and manufacturers, enabling direct ordering, negotiation of attractive. The E‑Commerce Arena offers expert presentations and practical advice for online retail- 1 . Networking is facilitated through a friendly atmosphere, free catering stations, and a high‑calibre supporting programme- 14 . With free online registration for trade visitors, the IAW provides efficient access to a broad supplier base and valuable industry.
Why it matters
The IAW serves as Europe's leading trading platform for promotional and imported goods, providing a critical meeting point for the retail sector during a period of profound transformation. With bricks-and-mortar retail under pressure from declining consumer confidence and e-commerce accelerating through AI and new marketplaces, the IAW offers a unique space for buyers and suppliers to discover trends, negotiate deals, and build relationships. The fair's E-Commerce Arena and diverse product categories—from food and electronics to textiles and private label—make it a barometer for retail innovation and a hub for international sourcing. In a challenging market environment, the IAW provides orientation, networking, and actionable business opportunities.
Venue
name: Koelnmesse
- 6
- 9
address
city: Cologne
street: Messeplatz 1
country: Germany
postal code: 50679
- Gate A (for assembly/dismantling)
- P 21 / roundabout Messeallee Nord (visitor parking entrance)
facilities
parking
notes: The exhibition grounds have around 10,000 own car parking spaces directly on site, with up to 7,500 additional spaces available- . Follow the green signs 'Koelnmesse'- 1 . No environmental badge is required for access to the exhibition grounds- 1 . A free shuttle bus runs from the parking areas to the exhibition entrances- .
spaces: 10000
status: unknown
currency: EUR
- https://www.iaw-messe.de/messe/anreise-aufenthalt/
- https://www.koelnmesse.de/location-und-services/anreise-aufenthalt/anreise/
cloakroom
notes: A cloakroom is available for a fee. Visitors must hand in large suitcases, trolleys, backpacks, and very large empty bags- 118 . Briefcases, handbags, and pilot's cases up to flight luggage size (approx. 55x40x20 cm) are permitted- 118 .
status: unknown
- https://www.iaw-messe.de/besucher/
- https://www.iaw-messe.de/en/visitors/
- On-site catering stations
- Various restaurants and snack points
prayer rooms
notes: No dedicated prayer rooms are explicitly mentioned for the IAW. Visitors may contact Koelnmesse directly for specific requests.
status: unknown
accessibility
notes: Koelnmesse is generally accessible for wheelchair users. All halls have disabled toilets- . Lifts in the halls are fully accessible for people with disabilities, except in rare cases- . Note: The elevator at the S-Bahn platform 'Köln Messe/Deutz' is being renovated and may be unavailable until the second half of 2026- . Alternative accessible routes are being developed- .
status: unknown
- https://www.koelnmesse.cn
onsite shuttle
notes: A free shuttle bus runs from the parking areas to the exhibition entrances- . Shuttle services also connect major hotels and business districts- .
status: unknown
- https://www.exponet.ru
charging points
notes: Electric vehicle charging stations are available, including at Hall 4 parking deck (20 connections)- and Hall 10 parking deck (2 Type 2 connections, 11 kW)- . Charging can be done via app, charging card, or QR code ad-hoc- .
status: unknown
- https://www.tanke.io
- https://ladesofort.de
luggage storage
notes: Digital lockers are available at Köln Messe/Deutz station (exit Auenweg) through partner Mobile Locker- . Additional luggage storage services are available nearby from €6.25 per day- .
status: unknown
- https://www.bahnhof.de
- https://de.bounce.com
gate notes: Gates during assembly/dismantling: Cars up to 3.5 t use Gate A; trucks enter via P 22 to Gate A .
parking notes: Koelnmesse provides over 17,000 parking spaces for visitors and exhibitors . For navigation, use the address: Deutz-Mülheimer Str. 111, 50679 Cologne . No environmental badge is required for access to the exhibition grounds . Visitor parking: P 21, via roundabout Messeallee Nord . Exhibitor parking: Hall 6 via P 6, P 5, P 1, P 7 (Gate A); Hall 9 via P 9, P 5, P 1 (Gate A) . Truck parking: P 22, P 8 .
floor plan page url: https://www.iaw-messe.de/en/trade-fair/downloads/
floor plan schematic
official venue page url: https://www.iaw-messe.de/messe/
Entry & registration
trade only: true
event hours: Visitor hours: 09:00 – 18:00 on 8–9 September 2026; 09:00 – 15:00 on 10 September 2026. Exhibitor hours: 07:00 – 19:00 on 8–9 September; 07:00 – 15:00 on 10 September- 11 .
ticket notes: Free admission with online pre-registration- . On-site tickets: day ticket €39 including catalogue, multi-day ticket €69 including catalogue- . The ticket shop is available at https://ticketshop.iaw-messe.de.
registration url: https://ticketshop.iaw-messe.de
registration is free: true
registration deadline: 10 August 2026 (exhibitor registration deadline)- 14
badge collection notes: Admission tickets are only available online- 11 . Each individual person must carry out a separate new registration- .
Organisers
- Nordwestdeutsche Messegesellschaft Bremen-Hannover mbH
- Ulrich Zimmermann
- Kerstin Manke
- Bettina Fröhlich
- Petra Schulz
- Kristin Krebstakies
- Kira Riege
- General Contact
Programme
- Loyalty Awards
- Trendseller Product Awards
- E-Commerce Arena Opening
- Status Quo E-Commerce – Chancen und Möglichkeiten
- Händler-Realtalk – Erfahrung aus 20 Jahren E-Commerce
- Viel mehr Gewinn OHNE mehr Verkäufe – Learnings aus über 500 Mio. EUR Mehrgewinn
- Die Live-Commerce Revolution (eBay Live)
- AI Commerce: Wie Künstliche Intelligenz den Onlinehandel verändert
- Erfolgsstrategien im Handel – Vortragsreihe (Trendforum)
- Michael Frontzek
- Kerstin Manke
- Michael Kiesch
- Sebastian Herz
- Daniele Marino
- Patrick Schlaucher
- Taha Taskinsoy
- Pavel Saper
- Fatih Özdemir
- Thomas Engels
- Jonny Hofberger
- Barbara Branca
- Volkan Kavsak
- Mario Alka
- Marina Ansbacher
- Frank Noß
- Ingrid Lommer
- Thomas Leufert
- Anabela Maticevic
- Adrian Aubele
- Alexander Gocht
- Stefan Warner
- Ralf Hermann
- Martina Schimmel
- Heidi Kneller-Gronen
- Holly Love
- Samuel Abraham
- Tuncay Türk
- Pepe Pedersen
- Alexander Dubinin
agenda url: https://www.iaw-messe.de/e-commerce-arena/
- E-Commerce & Digital Retail
- Trendforum & Retail Strategies
agenda status: unknown
agenda last updated: 2026
Previous edition
stats
year: 2025
notes: 39th IAW edition (September 2025). Data from official press release- 11 .
end date: 2025
start date: 2025
deals count: 0
edition number: 0
floor area sqm: 30000
visitors count: 4730
pavilions count: 0
exhibitors count: 260
visitor countries: 70
exhibitor countries: 23
recap html: <p>The 39th IAW trade fair (2–4 September 2025) closed with positive results. In the Cologne exhibition halls, 4,730 trade visitors from around 70 nations met 260 exhibitors from 23 countries across 30,000 m² of exhibition space- 11 . Project Manager Kerstin Manke concluded: 'In spite of the difficult market situation, the IAW has once again demonstrated that it is possible to do solid business and benefit from mutual interaction'- 18 . Exhibitors reported strong sales and valuable international contacts. The fair also featured 48 first-time exhibitors and the 21st edition of the E‑Commerce Arena- 18 .</p><p>The 38th IAW (March 2025) marked the fair's 20th anniversary with 280 exhibitors from 21 countries and 5,200 visitors- 26 . Loyalty Awards honoured long-standing participants- 26 .</p>
- 48 First-Time Exhibitors (Sep 2025)
- Loyalty Awards (Mar 2025)
- Rebranding & Modernisation (Sep 2024)
- Michael Rowland
- Justus von Siebert
- Juliette Osseweijer
- Rüdiger Grommes
- Nicolo Palumbo
exhibitor roi: Exhibitors reported strong sales, well-filled order books, and valuable new customer contacts despite a challenging global retail environment. Michael Rowland (Pricecheck Brand Partners BV, 10+ year exhibitor) noted: 'Our sales figures go up every year'- 1 . Justus von Siebert (L&K Brand Trading GmbH) confirmed: 'The IAW was highly successful for us. We did good business and had lots of discussions with customers'- 1 . The fair was seen as an essential platform for maintaining relationships and conducting face-to-face negotiations- 4 . Exhibitors also emphasised the importance of the IAW's international reach, with Markus Schier (Rappelkiste Spielwaren) stating: 'The IAW is very important because it is so international'- 1 .
impact summary: The 39th IAW (September 2025) reaffirmed its role as Europe's leading trading platform for promotional and imported goods, drawing 4,730 trade visitors from 70 nations and 260 exhibitors from 23 countries across 30,000 m². Despite challenging market conditions with restrained consumer spending worldwide, the fair generated solid business and positive exhibitor feedback. Project Manager Kerstin Manke noted: 'In spite of the difficult market situation, the IAW has once again demonstrated that it is possible to do solid business and benefit from mutual interaction'- 1 . The event featured 48 first-time exhibitors- 1 , reinforcing its role as a gateway for new suppliers, and the 21st E-Commerce Arena with 21 speakers covering AI, marketplace optimisation, and international sourcing- 13 . Exhibitors reported strong sales and valuable international contacts, with many describing the IAW as 'the place to be' and 'like a big family'- 1 .
current edition
year: 2026
notes: Based on official website description: 'over 300 international exhibitors from almost 30 countries' and 'around 6,000 trade visitors from a wide range of retail sectors and around 80 countries' on 30,000 m²- .
end date: 2026
source url: https://www.iaw-messe.de/
start date: 2026
value status: estimate
edition number: 41st
floor area sqm: 30000
visitors count: 6000
exhibitors count: 300
estimated visitors count: 6000
estimated exhibitors count: 300
- 260
- 4730
- 23
- 70
- 30000
- 280
- 5200
- 21
- 285
- 4850
- 28
- 290
- 5000
- 24
- 66
- 30000
- 300
- 6000
audience quality: The 39th IAW attracted a high-quality international audience: 4,730 trade visitors from approximately 70 nations- 1 . The visitor mix ranged from small independent retailers to major buyers from well-known retail chains- 1 . Exhibitors praised the 'valuable international mix' and the fair's ability to draw decision-makers from across the globe- 4 . First-time exhibitor Whatnot Europe Ltd described the IAW as 'THE trade fair in Europe when it comes to meeting new suppliers and buyers'- 1 .
- 35th IAW (September)
- 37th IAW (September)
- 38th IAW (March)
- 39th IAW (September)
- 2026
next edition outlook
year: 2026
summary: The 41st IAW (8–10 September 2026) is expected to build on the momentum of the 39th and 40th editions, with over 300 international exhibitors from nearly 30 countries and around 6,000 trade visitors from 80 nations across 30,000 m² in Halls 6 and 9 of Koelnmesse- . The E-Commerce Arena and Trendforum will continue as core supporting programme elements, with an expanded focus on AI, marketplace strategies, and practical retail hacks. Based on the success of the 39th edition's 48 first-time exhibitors- 1 , the organisers are likely to continue attracting a strong contingent of newcomers. The fair remains free for trade visitors with online pre-registration.
end date: 2026
confidence: high
start date: 2026
- Continued emphasis on AI and automation in retail, building on the E-Commerce Arena's 2025 programme
- Expansion of marketplace and cross-border e-commerce topics, reflecting the growing importance of platforms like Temu, Shein, and B&Q Marketplace
- Increased participation from Asian and non-European suppliers, following the 2025 trend of diverse international exhibitors
- More focus on sustainability and private-label sourcing as retailers seek differentiation in a competitive market
- Potential new features or formats announced closer to the event date
Exhibitors
total: 0
exhibitor analysis quality
total rows: 0
rows with hall: 0
classified rows: 0
rows with booth: 0
unclassified rows: 0
classification coverage pct: 0
Market
region: Europe (primarily Germany, with strong international participation from over 25 countries, including non-European buyers seeking European quality)
why it matters: The IAW serves as Europe's leading trading platform for promotional and imported goods, providing a critical meeting point for the retail sector during a period of profound transformation. With bricks-and-mortar retail under pressure from declining consumer confidence and e-commerce accelerating through AI and new marketplaces, the IAW offers a unique space for buyers and suppliers to discover trends, negotiate deals, and build relationships. The fair's E-Commerce Arena and diverse product categories—from food and electronics to textiles and private label—make it a barometer for retail innovation and a hub for international sourcing. In a challenging market environment, the IAW provides orientation, networking, and actionable business opportunities.
- E-Commerce Continues Its Steep Rise
- Geopolitical Tensions and Economic Uncertainty
- AI and Digital Transformation in Retail
- Diversity of Online Marketplaces
- Focus on Inventory Management and Overstock
similar event circuit
title: Key Events in the Retail Promotions and Imports Calendar
- PSI – European Leading Trade Show for Promotional Products
- Asia-Pacific Sourcing
- International Trade Fair for Retail Promotions and Imports (IAW) – Autumn 2026
summary: The IAW is Europe's No.1 order fair for promotional goods, seasonal impulse articles, trend-led products and high-volume orders- . It takes place twice a year in Cologne (March and September). Other relevant events in the broader promotional products and retail sourcing space include PSI (Europe's leading trade show for promotional products, held in Düsseldorf in January)- , and Asia-Pacific Sourcing (a sourcing platform for home, garden & leisure products, held in Cologne in March)- . The IAW itself is often held in parallel with Asia-Pacific Sourcing, offering combined value for visitors- .
- Q1 – Promotional Products & Sourcing
- Q3 – Retail Promotions & Imports
source note: Event dates and descriptions are based on official event websites and industry sources. The 2027 Asia-Pacific Sourcing date is confirmed; the 2026 edition was held in March but next edition is 2027.
planning window: January (PSI, Düsseldorf), March (IAW & Asia-Pacific Sourcing, Cologne), September (IAW, Cologne)
Logistics
visa
required: true
official url: https://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/en/visa-service/215870-215870
ata carnet notes: Germany accepts ATA Carnets for the temporary import of exhibition goods, professional equipment, and commercial samples- . Non-EU exhibitors bringing display items, prototypes, or demonstration equipment into Germany can use an ATA Carnet to avoid paying EU import duties and VAT- . The carnet is valid for 12 months- . From 1 June 2026, the EU (including Germany) will require a fully digital ATA Carnet (eCarnet)- . ATA Carnets in Germany are issued exclusively by the local Chamber of Industry and Commerce (IHK)- . The carnet applies to durable goods, not consumables- .
ata carnet accepted: true
free nationalities notes: Citizens of EU/EEA countries do not require a visa. Additionally, nationals of the following non-EU countries are visa-exempt for short stays (up to 90 days in any 180-day period): Albania, Andorra, Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Australia, Bahamas, Barbados, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Dominica, El Salvador, Georgia, Grenada, Guatemala, Honduras, Israel, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States, and others- - . This list is subject to change; always check with the local German embassy before travel.
weather notes: Cologne in early September typically has mild and pleasant weather. Average daytime high temperatures range between 19°C and 21°C, with night-time lows around 9°C to 13°C- . Average precipitation is around 52–67 mm spread over about 9 rainy days- . Most days are dry and sunny, though occasional showers are possible- .
- Punctuality and Professionalism
- Language
- Dining and Tipping
- Cash vs. Card
- Cologne's Carnival Spirit
- Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN)
connectivity notes: Free Wi-Fi is available in the exhibition halls (limited number of devices). For international visitors, consider purchasing a local SIM card or eSIM for data; major providers include Telekom, Vodafone, and O2. The venue has good mobile coverage. Charging points for mobile devices are available at the venue- .
local currency code: EUR
Visitor persona
visa
notes: The IAW offers a visa request form to assist exhibitors and visitors with obtaining the necessary documentation- 14 . Required documents typically include: valid passport (min. 3 months beyond return date, 2 blank pages), completed Schengen visa application form, recent passport photos, confirmed flight and hotel bookings, travel insurance (min. €30,000 coverage), bank statements (3–6 months), employment/company letter, and the IAW invitation letter- .
partner url: https://www.iaw-messe.de/en/visa-request/
official url: https://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/en/visa-service/215870-215870
estimated cost: 97
processing time: 15 working days (standard); apply at least 4–6 weeks in advance
requirement summary: Most non-EU/EEA nationals require a Schengen Business Visa to enter Germany for the IAW trade fair. Visa-exempt nationals (e.g., US, UK, Canada, Australia, Japan, South Korea) do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days. The IAW organisers can provide an official invitation letter to support visa applications- .
hotels
- Deutz (near Koelnmesse)
- City Centre / Altstadt
- Mühlheim
recommended check in: 2026
recommended check out: 2026
flights
partner url: https://www.koelnmesse.de/location-und-services/anreise-aufenthalt/hotels/
- Within Europe (e.g., Berlin, Munich, Paris, Copenhagen, Prague, London, Milan, Zurich) – approx. 1 hour flight time- 1
- Intercontinental – connect via major European hubs
booking notes: Book flights early for best prices. The IAW takes place twice a year (March and September), so hotel capacity near the fairgrounds is limited; book accommodation well in advance- 117 . The official Koelnmesse accommodation service offers partner hotels at top conditions- 1 .
destination airport: Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN)
weather
month: September
packing notes: Bring a light jacket or sweater for cooler mornings and evenings. An umbrella or raincoat is advisable. Comfortable shoes are essential for walking the exhibition halls. Business attire is recommended for meetings.
temperature range: 9°C to 21°C (average high 20–21°C, average low 9–13°C)-
rain or seasonality: Average precipitation 52–67 mm over about 9 rainy days- . Most days are dry and sunny, though occasional showers possible- .
transport
parking: Koelnmesse provides over 10,000 on-site parking spaces (plus 7,500 additional)- 10 . Follow green signs 'Koelnmesse' and use the address: Deutz-Mülheimer Str. 111, 50679 Cologne. No environmental badge is required to access the exhibition grounds. A free shuttle bus runs from parking areas to the entrances
ride hail: Uber, Free Now, and local taxi services are available. A trip from the city centre to Koelnmesse costs approx. €10–€20. From the airport, approx. €25–€35.
hotel to venue: Hotels in Deutz are within walking distance (5–15 min). From the city centre, take tram lines 1, 3, 4, or 9 to 'Koelnmesse' or 'Köln Messe/Deutz' stops. Public transport is included with the event ticket (VRS network).
public transit: The venue is directly connected to 'Köln Messe/Deutz' station (S-Bahn lines S6, S11, S12, S19) and tram stops 'Koelnmesse' (lines 3, 4) and 'Köln, Bf Messe/Deutz' (lines 1, 9). Travel within the VRS network is included with the IAW event ticket
airport to venue: From Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN), take S-Bahn lines S13 or S19 to 'Köln Messe/Deutz' station (approx. 15 min). By taxi, the trip takes approx. 15–20 min and costs approx. €35–€50. Driving distance is approx. 15 km
- Confirm event pass and badge details
- Confirm visa and travel documents
- Book flights and hotel
- Shortlist target exhibitors/sessions
- Prepare meeting calendar
itinerary builder
- Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom)
- LANXESS Arena
- Rhine River Promenade
- Cologne Chocolate Museum (Schokoladenmuseum)
Exhibitor persona
compliance
notes: Exhibitors must comply with the house and site rules of Koelnmesse. Stand structures over 100 m² may require additional approvals
stand rules url: https://www.iaw-messe.de/en/trade-fair/
insurance required: Public liability insurance is recommended (and may be required by Koelnmesse). Check with your insurance provider.
electrical or safety rules: Electrical installations must comply with German safety standards. All electrical equipment must be tested and approved. The house and site rules of Koelnmesse apply Smoking is prohibited indoors
lead capture
availability status: unknown
recommended followup sla: Within 48 hours of the fair (ideally same day or next business day)
- Confirm booth package and payment deadlines
- Submit stand design and contractor forms
- Book staff travel and accommodation
- Prepare freight and customs documents
- Prepare lead capture, collateral, and follow-up workflow
freight shipping
notes: All freight and booth deliveries should be directed to Koelnmesse, Messeplatz 1, 50679 Köln. For non-EU exhibitors, ATA Carnet is accepted for temporary import
partner url: https://www.iaw-messe.de/en/exhibitor/stand-construction-partner/
deadline summary: Deliver goods to Messeplatz 1, 50679 Köln before event start (setup day: 7 September 2026).
- Packing list
- Commercial invoice (for customs)
- ATA Carnet (for temporary import of exhibition goods from non-EU countries)
official handler: Koelnmesse / Verkerk Standbouw (stand construction materials)
Planning
exhibitor
lead capture
recommended followup sla: Within 48 hours of the fair (ideally same day or next business day)
- Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom)
- LANXESS Arena
- Rhine River Promenade
- Cologne Chocolate Museum (Schokoladenmuseum)
- Old Town (Altstadt)
best visit day: Day 2 (9 September 2026)
- Free Catering Stations
- E-Commerce Arena
- Trendforum
- Exhibitor Evening
- IAW Lounge
- First-Time Visitor Guide
- Exhibitor-focused
- Trend & Innovation
- Networking
best visit day reasoning: Day 2 typically offers the fullest exhibitor presence and the most comprehensive programme of sessions, including the E-Commerce Arena and Trendforum presentations. It also allows time to follow up on Day 1 contacts and avoid the final-day rush.
Costs
calculator
currency: USD
per diem usd: 100
booth sqm max: 30
booth sqm min: 14
visa cost usd: 90
- Economy (within Europe)
- Economy (intercontinental)
- Business (intercontinental)
nights default: 3
booth sqm default: 14
insurance cost usd: 50
shell per sqm low usd: 170
shell per sqm high usd: 190
hotel mid per night usd: 150
hotel budget per night usd: 80
hotel premium per night usd: 250
booth prices
notes: Prices shown are for the First-time Exhibitor Special package, which includes stand construction, carpet, furniture, lighting, Wi-Fi, and a marketing package. Bookings until 9 July 2026: row stand from €159/m², corner stand from €169/m². Bookings from 10 July 2026: row stand from €169/m², corner stand from €179/m². Plus advertising fee of €13.50 and service prepayment of €12.50 per m². All prices plus VAT where legally applicable. Stand sizes range from 14 to 30 m² (other sizes on request).
source: https://www.iaw-messe.de/en/exhibitor/first-time-exhibitor-special/
currency: EUR
standard booth sqm: 14
raw space per sqm low: 0
raw space per sqm high: 0
shell scheme per sqm low: 159
shell scheme per sqm high: 179
Decision tools
quiz result config
mode: visit_exhibit_skip
intro: Answer 8 questions about your goals, budget, team, product stage, and priorities. We'll suggest whether you should visit, exhibit, or skip the IAW 2026.
- Visit IAW 2026
- Exhibit at IAW 2026
- Skip for now
tie label: Mixed results – your scores are close
tie description: You have strengths across multiple options. Consider splitting your team: send some as visitors, others as exhibitors, or attend a single day to evaluate before committing to a booth next time.
Partners
- Verkerk Standbouw B.V.
- MbW Messebau & Werbetechnik
- Pörschmann & Partner Messebau GmbH
Media
- International Trade Fair for Retail Promotions and Imports logo
- International Trade Fair for Retail Promotions and Imports OG image
- International Trade Fair for Retail Promotions and Imports hero image
- International Trade Fair for Retail Promotions and Imports hero image
og image url: https://cdn.tradeshowintel.com/assets/tsi_pro/69d549258456ff990cfdd513/og_1787855756.png
event logo url: https://cdn.tradeshowintel.com/assets/event_logos/69d549258456ff990cfdd513_1778258382.png
hero image url: https://cdn.tradeshowintel.com/assets/tsi_pro/69d549258456ff990cfdd513/hero_1787855755.png
Answers
- Michael Rowland
- Justus von Siebert
- Juliette Osseweijer
- Rüdiger Grommes
- Nicolo Palumbo
Sources
- IAW Messe Allgemeine Informationen
- IAW Messe Anreise & Aufenthalt
- IAW Factsheet September 2026 (PDF)
- Information for visitors | IAW Trade Fair Cologne
- The Trade Fair: Facts & Figures
- First-time Exhibitor Special | IAW Cologne Trade Fair
- Exhibitor IAW | International Trade Fair for Retail Promotions and Imports
- Aussteller IAW | Internat. Aktionswaren- & Handelsmesse Köln
- Standbaupartner | IAW Messe Köln
- IAW | International Trade Fair for Retail Promotions and Imports in Cologne
- Downloads | IAW Trade Fair
- Koelnmesse Anreise
- IAW Messe Impressum
- IAW Messe - Über uns
- IAW Messe FAQ
- IAW Messe Standbaupartner
- IAW Factsheet September 2026 (PDF)
- Die 39. IAW-Messe mit guten Deals und positivem Fazit
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- The 39th IAW with great deals and positive results!
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- IAW-Messe schließt mit positivem Fazit
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- Galerie IAW Messe September 2023
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- 40. IAW Starke Aussteller und spannendes Programm
- Retail on the Move. That was the 40th IAW Trade Show
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- IAW trade fair concludes on a positive note
- Alles aus der Welt des Onlinehandels: E-Commerce Arena bei der IAW-Messe
- IAW Messe Impressions & Media Archive
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- IAW Messe FAQ
- IAW Messe VISA Request
- Abschlussbericht IAW September 2025 (DE)
- Press Release final report IAW September 2025 (EN)
- Erfolgreicher Abschluss der 38. IAW-Messe
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- Mehr Aussteller, mehr Besucherqualität, mehr Ideen: IAW-Herbstmesse zieht positive Messebilanz
- The 39th IAW trade show gets underway: diversity, purchasing power and a program offering real value
- Die 39. IAW-Messe startet: Vielfalt, Kaufkraft und Programm mit echtem Mehrwert
- Multichannel-Plattform für den internationalen Handel: Die 39. IAW-Messe geht an den Start
- IAW trade fair closes on a positive note
- Köln Bonn Airport (CGN) Official Website
- Visas for Germany – Federal Foreign Office
- Germany's 2026 visa-free list (62 countries)
- Schengen visa fee 2026 – Germany
- Germany Schengen Visa Processing Time 2026
- ATA Carnet for temporary export of goods
- Digitales Carnet ab 1. Juni 2026 Pflicht
- 40th IAW – Strong exhibitors and an exciting program
- The IAW gets off to a flying start in its 40th edition
- PSI | European leading trade show for promotional products
- Asia-Pacific Sourcing
- Auf- und Abbauplan September 2025 (PDF)
- Koelnmesse Location & Services