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

The official start of LIGNA 2025 marks the beginning of one of the world's most important trade fairs for the woodworking and wood processing industry in Hanover. The anniversary edition not only marks the start of an intensive week of trade fairs, but also represents 50 years of industry history. With 1,433 exhibitors from 49 countries, an exhibition area of more than 110,000 square metres and an extensive supporting programme, the world's leading trade fair sends a clear signal of continuity and renewal. LIGNA 2025 is starting at a time when the wood industry is facing profound structural changes. Topics such as digitalisation, climate protection, energy efficiency and new construction concepts are dominating the discussions. Against this backdrop, the start of the trade fair is of particular importance: the industry is using Hanover as a place to take stock and set its strategic direction.

LIGNA anniversary in times of change

Since 1975, LIGNA has been the central international meeting place for manufacturers, suppliers, users and decision-makers in the wood industry. The 50th anniversary comes at a time of economic uncertainty, characterised by fluctuating demand, geopolitical tensions and increasing sustainability requirements. This makes the high level of participation by exhibitors, who are demonstrating their innovative strength and willingness to invest, all the more remarkable. The trade fair shows that the industry is not retreating into a defensive stance. Instead, companies are consciously using the anniversary to address future topics and present new solutions. LIGNA thus remains a reflection of the industry – with all its challenges, but also with clearly recognisable development prospects.

Focus areas: digitalisation, sustainability, timber construction

In terms of content, LIGNA 2025 will once again focus on the three key themes of ‘Connectivity’, ‘Sustainable Production’ and ‘Engineered Wood’. These focus areas illustrate how closely technological innovation and ecological responsibility are now linked. Digital networking of machines, AI-supported process optimisation and data-based production control are among the defining themes in the exhibition halls. At the same time, sustainable production is becoming more of a focus. Resource-saving manufacturing, energy-efficient systems and circular economy concepts will be presented along the entire value chain. Modern timber construction is also gaining in importance: ENGINEERED WOOD stands for innovative wood-based materials and hybrid construction methods that open up new applications and further strengthen wood as a sustainable building material.

Industry between setbacks and new beginnings

The economic conditions remain challenging. The VDMA points to a nine per cent decline in the production of woodworking machinery in Germany in 2024. This development is due to investment restraint and a generally subdued economy. Nevertheless, the mood at LIGNA 2025 is one of cautious optimism. Many exhibitors report that investments have not been cancelled, but postponed. The long-term outlook remains stable, particularly in the context of sustainable construction and rising demand for climate-friendly materials. Wood plays a central role here, which could provide the industry with new growth impetus in the medium term.

Supporting programme with practical relevance and perspective

LIGNA 2025 will be accompanied by a wide-ranging supporting programme that specifically addresses different target groups. The LIGNA.Campus and LIGNA.Stage will offer specialist presentations, discussion panels and practical reports on current industry topics. The recruiting area is aimed at young professionals and skilled workers and addresses the increasing shortage of skilled labour. Formats such as Carpenter Day and Joiner Day create practical points of contact for the skilled trades. The presentation of the German Timber Construction Award also adds architectural and design accents. New this year is LIGNA.FutureSquare, which is designed as a platform for start-ups and new technology areas within the VDMA. The focus here is on young companies, innovative approaches and new business models.

International stage for a global industry

With visitors from over 100 countries, LIGNA will remain an international stage for a globally networked industry in 2025. For many companies, the trade fair is much more than a product show. It serves as a venue for personal discussions, market research and strategic partnerships. This direct exchange is becoming increasingly important, especially in uncertain times. Hanover will once again become the centre of international industry dialogue. LIGNA 2025 will not only be an anniversary edition, but also a platform on which the wood industry can reposition itself. Between economic downturn and technical breakthrough, the trade fair shows that the industry is ready to actively tackle the challenges ahead.