October is one of the busiest months in the international trade fair calendar. Industries, across Europe and beyond, gather to showcase innovation, network, and explore new business opportunities. This is one of the months with the most diverse types of fairs. No matter the industry, there is definitely an event that can be beneficial for you. Here’s a roundup of some of the biggest and most influential trade fairs in October that attract thousands of visitors.
1. Aquanale – Cologne, Germany
Upcoming Edition: 28-31, October 2025
Focus: Swimming pools, saunas, spas, and wellness
Aquanale is the international trade fair for pool and wellness professionals. It attracts manufacturers, suppliers, and service providers from around the world. Attendees can explore innovations in pool technology, sauna solutions, and wellness equipment. Networking with key industry players makes Aquanale a must-visit event for professionals in the wellness sector.
2. Frankfurt Book Fair – Frankfurt, Germany
Upcoming Edition: 15-19, October 2025
Focus: Publishing and literature
The Frankfurt Book Fair is the world’s largest trade fair for books, media, and publishing. It draws thousands of authors, publishers, literary agents, and media professionals. Attendees can discover new releases, negotiate publishing deals, and attend literary talks and workshops. With its global influence, the fair is crucial for anyone in the publishing industry.
3. Blechexpo – Stuttgart, Germany
Upcoming Edition: 21-24, October 2025
Focus: Sheet metal working and processing
Blechexpo is the leading trade fair for the sheet metal industry. The exhibition features machinery, production technology, and metalworking solutions. Innovations in laser cutting, bending, and processing are showcased, providing visitors with insight into the future of manufacturing and metal processing.
4. CPhI Worldwide – Various Locations
Upcoming Edition: 28-30, October 2025
Focus: Pharmaceuticals
CPhI Worldwide is one of the largest global pharmaceutical trade fairs. The event brings together pharmaceutical companies, manufacturers, suppliers, and service providers. Attendees can explore new ingredients, formulations, contract services, and regulatory insights. It’s a key event for anyone in pharma, biotech, or related industries.
5. Interlift – Augsburg, Germany
Upcoming Edition: 14-17, October 2025
Focus: Elevators, escalators, and lift technology
Interlift is the international trade fair for the elevator and escalator industry. It gathers manufacturers, suppliers, and service providers. Visitors can explore innovative lift systems, components, and control technologies. Interlift is a key platform for networking and staying updated on technological developments in vertical transportation.
6. Expo Real – Munich, Germany
Upcoming Edition: 6-8, October 2025
Focus: Real estate and investment
Expo Real is Europe’s leading trade fair for real estate and investment. Developers, investors, urban planners, and service providers gather to discuss market trends, projects, and investment opportunities. The event is renowned for networking and connecting stakeholders across the commercial and residential real estate sectors.
7. Host – Milan, Italy
Upcoming Edition: 17-21, October 2025
Focus: Hospitality, catering, and foodservice equipment
Host is the world’s premier exhibition for the hospitality and catering industry. Visitors can explore kitchen technologies, professional equipment, foodservice innovations, and gourmet products. It is a hotspot for chefs, restaurateurs, and hospitality professionals seeking inspiration and cutting-edge solutions.
8. Anuga – Cologne, Germany
Upcoming Edition: 4-8, October 2025
Focus: Food and beverages
Anuga is the world’s largest food and beverage trade fair. Exhibitors present products from every segment of the industry, including organic foods, drinks, retail solutions, and food service concepts. Professionals can discover trends, source new products, and network with suppliers from all over the world.
9. K-Fair – Düsseldorf, Germany
Upcoming Edition: 8-15, October 2025
Focus: Plastics and rubber
K-Fair is the world’s leading trade fair for the plastics and rubber industries. Innovations in machinery, raw materials, and technologies are showcased. Manufacturers, engineers, and suppliers gather to exchange ideas and develop collaborations. It’s a global platform for advancing production efficiency and sustainable solutions.
10. SPIEL Essen – Essen, Germany
Upcoming Edition: 23-26, October 2025
Focus: Board games, toys, and hobby products
SPIEL Essen is the world’s largest trade fair for board games, hobby products, and tabletop games. It attracts game designers, publishers, retailers, and enthusiasts. Attendees can test new games, attend workshops, and discover the latest trends in gaming and entertainment.
Why Attending October Trade Fairs Matters
October is an ideal month to plan your trade fair calendar. These events:
- Provide access to industry innovations and product launches
- Offer networking opportunities with global professionals
- Help businesses expand into new markets
- Offer a platform for learning and collaboration through seminars and workshops
Whether you’re in hospitality, publishing, manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, or gaming, attending trade fairs in October can offer strategic advantages for your business.
Plan Your Visit
If you’re planning to attend any of these events, it’s crucial to book accommodation early. Cities like Frankfurt, Cologne, and Düsseldorf experience high hotel occupancy during trade fairs. Travel agencies specializing in corporate hotel bookings, like Fair Point, can help secure a convenient place, so you can focus on maximizing your experience instead of focusing on searching through dozens of websites for the perfect stay. We have you covered!
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