The global furniture and interior design industry is poised for a significant shift towards sustainability, as interzum, an international trade fair, announces “Rethinking Resources: Circular and Biobased Solutions” as its main theme for 2025. This focus on the circular economy and biobased materials underscores the growing need for eco-conscious practices in manufacturing and design.

From May 20-23, 2025, at the Koelnmesse exhibition grounds in Cologne, Germany, attendees can expect a comprehensive exploration of these themes through interactive showcases, a robust event program, and a plethora of innovative products and concepts from exhibitors. The fair aims to provide a platform for industry professionals to witness firsthand the practical applications of sustainable resource management.

Building upon the “Neo-Ecology” concept from the 2023 edition, interzum 2025 will explore sustainable design. “Our new theme, ‘Rethinking Resources,’ directly addresses a critical pillar of neo-ecology,” said Maik Fischer, director of interzum. “By merging the concepts of circularity and biobased materials, we’re driving the development of durable, sustainably sourced product innovations.”

The emphasis on resource stewardship is essential, according to show organizers. interzum 2025 will spotlight two key strategies: transitioning to a circular economy, which prioritizes reuse, repair, and recycling to extend product lifecycles, and adopting biobased solutions, which utilize renewable resources as environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional materials. Both approaches are essential in minimizing the ecological footprint of the furniture and interior design industries and fostering a more sustainable future.

This biennial event draws tens of thousands of industry professionals from around the globe. The 2023 edition alone welcomed roughly 62,000 trade visitors from 150 countries, with 76 percent coming from outside Germany. This international makeup extends to the exhibitors as well, with 1,600 companies from 59 nations displaying their wares.

Young innovators initiative

For North American furniture manufacturers and designers seeking cutting-edge innovations, interzum 2025 also got a little more interesting. The German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK) is rolling out a program to support young German businesses at the show.

This “Young Innovators” initiative offers a significant leg-up to startups, covering up to 60 percent of their booth costs, capped at €7,500. The goal? To inject fresh energy and innovation into the industry while bolstering the global competitiveness of these burgeoning companies.

Show organizers said interzum offers exposure and networking opportunities for these startups. Attendees can look for them in a shared pavilion.

The event organizers also said that the German government recognizes the importance of interzum, selecting it as one of a select group of leading trade fairs to support through this funding program. interzum is a crucial hub for deal-making, trend-spotting, and knowledge-sharing within the furniture and interior design sectors.

This funding presents an opportunity for participating startups. Beyond increased visibility and global connections, they gain insights into market trends and customer needs.

For more, visit interzum.com.