With a noticeable surge of energy, an impressive buzz in the halls and an exhibitor increase compared to the previous event, the HOLZ-HANDWERK and FENSTERBAU FRONTALE 2026 trade fair duo came to a successful close after four intense and inspiring days. From 24 to 27 March 2026, Nuremberg once again became the heart of the international window, door, façade and woodworking trade. With around 75,000 visitors from 117 countries and 1,022 exhibitors from 47 countries, the trade fair duo has confirmed its role as a central industry meeting place and as a platform that provides guidance, showcases innovations and jointly develops future strategies. The next event is already scheduled for 28 to 31 March 2028.
This year’s event impressively demonstrated the importance of face-to-face interaction and hands-on technology for an industry amid transformation. Packed halls at the Nuremberg Exhibition Centre, impressive stands, in-depth discussions and a top-class supporting programme characterised the event throughout all four days.
Both events combined practical knowledge-sharing, strategic future-oriented topics and international expertise – a combination that clearly delighted visitors.
Strong voices from the exhibition management
Stefan Dittrich, Director Exhibition HOLZ-HANDWERK, draws a thoroughly positive conclusion: “These four days have impressively demonstrated just how much energy and innovative spirit there is within the craft sector. The atmosphere on site was fantastic. HOLZ-HANDWERK 2026 has once again proven that personal interaction and the discovery of innovative technologies are indispensable for carpenters and joiners. This underlines the importance of this trade fair as a central meeting place for the community.”
Elke Harreiß, Executive Director FENSTERBAU FRONTALE, emphasises the added value of joint industry dialogue:
“The atmosphere thrives on the passion of this industry. FENSTERBAU FRONTALE is the place where the community finds its bearings, draws inspiration and develops further. The fact that the trade fair duo has grown demonstrates the high level of synergy and just how important this exchange is, particularly at this time. My special thanks go to all the exhibitors, whose commitment and presence have contributed significantly to this strong collective result.”
Chiara Sträßner, Director Exhibition FENSTERBAU FRONTALE, sums it up: “Our new formats – from the Stage and the Innovation Award to the Future Room – have demonstrated the shared value we can create: sharing knowledge, connecting perspectives and fostering genuine inspiration. The many positive discussions and strong response confirm that Nuremberg is the right place for the industry to move forward together and shape the future.”
A supporting programme that set new standards
HOLZ-HANDWERK, organised in collaboration with the VDMA Woodworking Machinery Association and supported by the Bavarian Association of Cabinetmakers (FSH), offered visitors a particularly lively and dialogue-oriented programme for the first time in 2026. In the new HOLZ-HANDWERK Arena, supported by the trade magazine dds, up-and-coming talents, experienced craft businesses and industry experts discussed current challenges in training, digitalisation and the use of materials. The Arena thus not only provided a concise overview of the status quo but also looked to the future: it impressively demonstrated how modern craft businesses will work in the future – and which topics will have a decisive influence on the industry in the coming years.
Another highlight was the Material Show curated by FSH, which showcased innovative materials for the joinery trade and provided fresh inspiration for design.
The HOLZ-HANDWERK Campus also provided a valuable overview of technical training pathways and further education opportunities. Universities, vocational colleges and other institutions presented modern teaching content and demonstrated just how diverse and future-proof careers in the woodworking trade are.
FENSTERBAU FRONTALE, supported by the trade association for ‘Glass, Window and Facade Baden-Württemberg’ and state guild association of the Bavarian glazier trade, impressed with a comprehensive, internationally oriented programme that shed light on key issues facing the construction industry. The new FENSTERBAU FRONTALE Stage focused on energy-efficient refurbishment, mass production, climate adaptation, the circular economy and digital planning processes. The FENSTERBAU FRONTALE Forum also offered a dedicated, in-depth platform for specialist knowledge and practical insights.
A particular highlight was the first-ever presentation of the FENSTERBAU FRONTALE Innovation Award on stage, which recognised outstanding product developments. This year’s winner, Remmers GmbH, was selected from a total of 39 entries and honoured for its innovation, the Induline I-130. At the FENSTERBAU FRONTALE Forum, the titles of ‘Window Manufacturer of the Year 2026’ were awarded to MB Fensterbau Beelitz GmbH as well as the ‘MeisterAward’ to Hendryk Urban and Lisa-Marie Schmiedle.
At AIT-Dialog’s international ‘Architecture-Window-Facade’ forum, this year’s theme ‘Balance – Building in Equilibrium’ focused on changing planning requirements and sustainable construction methods. Following the event, guided tours provided an opportunity to explore the topics in greater depth through direct discussions with relevant exhibitors.
The programme was rounded off by the special exhibition ‘klima.sicher.bauen’ (climate.safe.building) in collaboration with ift Rosenheim, which provided practical insights into sustainable construction methods and climate-resilient solutions, as well as the ‘Metallbautreff’ (metal construction meeting) powered by metall-markt.net, which served as a central hub for knowledge exchange and networking.
Strong synergy between the trade fair duo
The new ‘Future Room’, jointly created by HOLZ-HANDWERK, FENSTERBAU FRONTALE and 100 PROZENT DIGITAL, showcased practical digital office concepts, AI-supported planning, smart building technologies, and future-oriented topics relating to leadership, the next generation of talent and organisational development.
The jointly curated ‘Focus Interior Doors’ programme, organised in collaboration with the trade magazine BM, provided a compelling demonstration of how aesthetics, functionality and innovation can be combined in modern door solutions. The programme was complemented by special guided tours.
A conclusion with momentum
The 2026 trade fair duo has impressively demonstrated that HOLZ-HANDWERK and FENSTERBAU FRONTALE give the industry a strong voice. They remain the central meeting place where innovations are showcased, networks grow and trends are set.
The community is looking ahead – united, connected and full of creative drive.