This is what DACH+HOLZ International 2026 will look like
From 24 to 27 February 2026, Cologne will be once more the major meeting point for roofing and timber construction. In this interview, Exhibition Director Robert Schuster reveals what makes DACH+HOLZ International so unique, what he and his team are currently working on.
Munich/Cologne, 25 November 2025
Mr Schuster, how’s is the industry mood with regard to the upcoming 2026 trade fair?
Robert Schuster: “The roofing and timber construction industry continues to be in a very strong position, and the anticipation for a ‘proper’ reunion is already enormous. Our team has been out and about at industry events and we’ve had lots of personal discussions with exhibitors and partners beforehand. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive! DACH+HOLZ International is and remains the industry meeting place for roofers and carpenters. We can virtually feel the community’s eagerness to meet face to face again, to exchange experiences, discuss – and simply shape the future together.”
Which companies have already confirmed their participation?
Robert Schuster: “Numerous key players and renowned exhibitors have been on board from the very beginning – including Paul Bauder, Böcker Maschinenwerke, Deutsche Rockwool, Enke-Werk, Festool, James Hardie, Ladenburger Holzwerke, Mafell, Nelskamp, Prefa, Roto, Saint-Gobain Isover, Schechtl Maschinenbau, Steico, Velux, Weinmann Holzbausystemtechnik, Wienerberger and Würth. That sends a very clear signal: The industry fully supports their trade fair. With 80 per cent national and 20 per cent international exhibitors, we represent the full spectrum of the sector.”
What are the thematic focal points of the upcoming edition?
Robert Schuster: “Sustainability, artificial intelligence, digitalisation, occupational safety, young talent – but above all: genuine exchange. Our further-developed workspaces are not just about listening, but about participating. Touching, trying things out, getting advice, joining the conversation – that’s what we aim for. We are planning three central workspace areas: the ‘Future Workspace’ in Hall 6, the ‘Retention Roof Workspace’ in Hall 8, dedicated to the trending topics of water retention and urban climate challenges, and the ‘Plumbing Craft Workspace’, operated as a live workshop with lectures by the Würzburg Master School of Plumbing.”
How is the trade fair structured in Cologne, and which areas will there be?
Robert Schuster: “We are using the well-established Halls 6, 7, 8 and 9 plus the outdoor area. Each hall has its very own focal theme: Hall 6 for pitched and flat roofs, Hall 7 as the centre for timber and insulation together with Holzbau Baden-Württemberg, Hall 8 for plumbing technology, IT, green roofs and waterproofing, and Hall 9 for fastening technology, tools and our start-up area. Key partners such as Holzbau Deutschland, ZVDH, the roofing associations and BG Bau are strategically positioned to create optimal synergies.”
What role does the city of Cologne play as a location?
Robert Schuster: “Cologne is ideal: economically strong in the construction trades, excellently connected and with a high density of specialised companies in the region. The Köln Messe Deutz station, our shuttle service and ample parking make getting there very easy. For our exhibitors, this means short distances to their target audience – and for visitors, an attractive overall package and an environment that encourages exchange, not just inside the halls but also outside.”
What sets DACH+HOLZ International apart from other trade fairs?
Robert Schuster: “Our focus is on the construction trades – on roofers, carpenters and metalworkers. The community aspect is absolutely central, because we don’t just offer space, we offer encounters. This industry thrives on holding strongly together, and in 2026 we are once again creating the right setting for this. Our planned special areas are particularly innovative: the networking area from ‘DeinDach by Hemmersbach’ outdoors, following the motto ‘We want to show everyone just how brilliant the trade is’, or ‘Craft Meets Sport’ with daily mountain bike shows by a master roofer. You’ll only find that at DACH+HOLZ!”
Can you already tell us what visitors can particularly look forward to?
Robert Schuster: “First and foremost they can look forward to our exhibitors’ product innovations and the depth of the range on show. But also to a trade fair that is close to the visiting craftspeople, the topics and the practical realities. Visitors can expect a vibrant atmosphere with plenty of hands-on activities, successful ideas and personal interaction. We have expanded our start-up area to 30 exhibitors, we’re offering a completely new experience with ‘Your Industry Tattoo’ in cooperation with a local tattoo artist, and our national teams of roofers and carpenters will be showcasing their skills. On top of all this we are adding to this events such as the International Tuesday and, as yet one more highlight, our industry evening on Thursday. One thing is certain: the fair will be exciting, and we’ll be announcing the first programme highlights very soon.”
DACH+HOLZ International, the trade fair for green building: building envelope & structural timber construction, will take place from 24 to 27 February 2026 at the Cologne Exhibition Centre. Further information available at https://www.dach-holz.com/en
Press contact:
Mélanie Diss, Press and Public Relations Manager
P +49 89 189 149 163
diss@ghm.de
www.dach-holz.com/en
Publication free of charge – receipt requested
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