Global reach at h+h americas 2025

Posted by Rachel Westall on 15 May 2025

h+h americas 2025 concluded its most successful edition yet, welcoming more than 5,180 industry professionals (29.7% increase over 2024) from 48 countries, all 50 U.S. states and 2 U.S. territories to the Donald E. Stephens Convention & Conference Center in Rosemont, Illinois. With 558 exhibitors representing 27 nations and a dynamic lineup of over 328 programmes, this year's event continued to set the standard as North America's most influential handicraft trade show.

lady looking at yarns at trade fair Running from 7th to 9th May, with preshow education beginning 6 May, the show launched with strong momentum: over 950 attendees arrived early to participate in preshow business classes, h+h university sessions, and the highly anticipated Sample It! event. The show's theme, "It's for YOU!", came to life through inclusive programming for everyone who makes a living through crafts.

"This year's show proved the resilience and innovation of our industry," said Mette Petersen, President of Koelnmesse Inc. "Despite global uncertainty and rapid shifts in the retail landscape, the craft community continues to thrive, adapt, and grow. h+h americas is where that energy finds its home."

"Following the success of our h+h cologne event earlier this year, we are excited to witness the impressive growth and developments at our sister show, h+h americas. As we continue to engage one of the most important markets in this industry, we are also excited to expand into the consumer trade fair segment with our new Fiber+Fabric Crafts Festival, scheduled for May 2026," said Gerald Boese, President and CEO of Koelnmesse GmbH.

lady looking at bright wool skeins at trade fair Key 2025 additions included the first-ever Student Day, which welcomed students from four local educational institutions—including high schools, community colleges, and universities—offering a tailored day of fashion-focused demos, business insights, and guided tours. These students, all enrolled in fashion design and production programmes, represent the next generation of craft professionals.>br>
"Our mission is to support the entire ecosystem of the craft industry, from emerging talent to established leaders," said Darrin Stern, Vice President of Koelnmesse Inc. and Show Director. "The introduction of Student Day shows our commitment to education, workforce development, and the future of this vibrant industry."

Other 2025 highlights included the expanded h+h University curriculum, the launch of the Sewing Dealer Exchange, and the return of Sample It!, which featured 91 vendors showcasing exclusive products. Evening programming such as the h+h After Dark celebration, presented by Janome, and the Cosplay Fashion Show & Competition, produced by Famoré Cutlery, thrilled attendees—culminating in over $16,500 in prizes awarded to both professional and student participants.

bright fabric bags at trade fair The event's strategic partnership with the Craft Industry Alliance brought forward vital discussions such as the State of the Industry panel and the Golden Scissors Awards, which honoured innovation, leadership, and impact across the creative community. "The energy this year was inspiring," said Abby Glassenberg, Founder of the Craft Industry Alliance. "From the collaborative panels to the thoughtful student programming, it's clear that h+h americas is shaping the future of our industry through meaningful connections and actionable ideas."

A staggering 219 first-time exhibitors (39.4% of the total) brought fresh energy to the floor, while the show's Creator Summit demonstrated h+h americas' unparalleled digital reach—garnering over 51.5 billion monthly impressions, an estimated $257 million in advertising value, and contributing nearly $13 million in monthly retail sales.

With momentum already building for 2026, Koelnmesse will introduce the Fiber+Fabric Craft Festival, a consumer-facing event bridging brands directly to passionate makers and shoppers. The festival will take place 30 April – 3 May 2026, again in Rosemont, IL.

For more information, visit www.hh-americas.com or follow @hh_americas on social media using #hhamericas2025.

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