The city of Hanover is preparing to host ITMA 2027, the world’s largest exhibition of textile and garment technology, from 16 to 22 September 2027. Returning to Germany for the first time since 1991, the event is expected to span 200,000 square metres across 13 halls at the Messegelaende Hannover exhibition grounds.

The successful bid was a joint effort by Deutsche Messe, the city of Hanover, and the Lord Mayor’s office. Belit Onay, Mayor and CEO of the City of Hanover, commented: “We are elated to have successfully bid for ITMA 2027. Hanover is a green and efficient city with a relaxed atmosphere, making it an ideal and stress-free destination for international visitors.”

Known for its robust infrastructure and rich trade fair history, Hanover is preparing to welcome tens of thousands of industry professionals from around the globe. With over 18,000 hotel beds in the city and an additional 54,000 in the surrounding region, as well as 4,000 private accommodation options, visitors will find a variety of stays suited to all needs. Another 700 rooms are expected to become available in the city centre next year, adding to the growing capacity.

Participants will also have the option of staying at a designated campground opposite the exhibition venue, catering to those travelling in motorhomes or caravans. “The majority of accommodation options are located within 30 to 90 minutes from the fairground,” noted Dr Jochen Koeckler, Chairman of Deutsche Messe’s Board.

To streamline accommodation services, ITMA Services has appointed bnetwork, a seasoned destination management company, as the official travel partner. With prior experience supporting ITMA exhibitions in Barcelona, bnetwork will provide hotel and apartment bookings via a dedicated platform launching soon. Enquiries can already be directed to [email protected].

Hanover boasts excellent European transport links, including a well-connected international airport and direct high-speed rail services. The Messegelaende is easily accessible via light rail and road, with 39,000 parking spaces available on-site.

CEMATEX President Alex Zucchi remarked: “We look forward to staging our exhibition in Hanover. The city has the necessary infrastructure to support a huge congregation of exhibitors and visitors. We are confident that the ITMA 2027 experience will be as seamless as in past editions.”

More details, including the launch of the ITMA 2027 website and stand space applications, will be available from July 2025. The last edition of ITMA, held in Milan in 2023, featured 1,709 exhibitors from 47 countries and drew over 111,000 visitors from 143 nations.

www.itma.com