LIGNA 2025 kicks off in Hanover: World's leading trade fair celebrates 50 years

LIGNA in Hanover has begun. With 1,433 exhibitors from 49 countries, a comprehensive supporting program, and a clear commitment to transforming the wood industry, the anniversary edition marks the start of an intensive week of trade fairs.

LIGNA anniversary in times of change

Since 1975, LIGNA has been the global meeting place for the woodworking and wood-processing industry. This year, the world's leading trade fair is celebrating its 50th anniversary – and doing so in a phase marked by economic concerns, digitalization, and climate debates. This makes the number of exhibitors all the more remarkable: 1,433 companies will be presenting their technologies on more than 110,000 square meters – from forestry to networked manufacturing.

Focus: Digitalization, sustainability, timber construction

The trade fair will once again focus on the three central themes of “Connectivity,” “Sustainable Production,” and “Engineered Wood.” These reflect the technological upheaval in the industry – from AI-controlled machines and resource-efficient manufacturing to modern timber construction. The focus is not only on efficiency, but also on new market models, circular economy, and CO₂ savings.

Industry between slowdown and revival

The economic situation remains challenging. The VDMA reports a nine percent decline in production of woodworking machines in Germany in 2024. Nevertheless, many exhibitors are confident. The general consensus is that investment decisions have merely been postponed, not canceled. The increasing importance of wood as a sustainable building material in particular is raising new expectations for medium-term market development.

Supporting program with practical relevance and perspective

LIGNA is accompanied by an extensive supporting program. The LIGNA.Campus, the LIGNA.Stage, the recruiting area, and events such as Carpenters' Day, Joiners' Day, and the German Timber Construction Award ceremony offer targeted content for craftsmen, industry, and young talent. New additions include the LIGNA.FutureSquare, a presentation format for start-ups and new technology areas within the VDMA.

International stage for a global industry

Visitors from over 100 countries are expected in Hanover. This means that LIGNA remains one of the most important international industry events. For many companies, it is much more than a product show – it is a place for networking, market development, and strategic orientation.