31 CREATIVEWORLD Creative energy Some 4,636 exhibitors and participants from 170 countries, visited Frankfurt this February to attend Ambiente, Christmasworld and Creativeworld The consumer goods trade fair trio kicked off in 2026 on the day before the fair with the Compass Talks and the presentation of the new IFH industry index. As the first international sentiment barometer, it reveals where the global consumer goods industry currently stands and the key issues at stake. The tenor of the subsequent afternoon panels was clear: waiting is not an option – what is needed are further developments in business models, more resilient value chains and better preparation for uncertainties, such as customs duties and import regulations. Against this backdrop, international participation in consumer goods fairs is growing – especially in this dynamic trading environment, personal encounters, market transparency and resilient networks are becoming increasingly important. Detlef Braun, Managing Director of Messe Frankfurt, remarks: “Geopolitics, cost pressures and the need for transformation are no longer exceptional circumstances, but rather a new reality. This is precisely why it is important to seize the right moment in the market with confidence and drive. And that moment is here and now in Frankfurt.” Around 140,000 visitors from all over the world took advantage of this opportunity. Futurist Ben Hammersley, speaking on behalf of many participants, made this clear on Thursday: “The decisive factor for the future is not certainty in planning, but the ability to deal with uncertainty – with the right mindset, curiosity and adaptability.” Robert Edler, Senior Sales Manager at Wagner from the Interior Looks brand area, adds: “One of our most important goals is to gain new partners in the international market for project business. Ambiente provides the momentum to meet these people in person.” in Frankfurt
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