IPM ESSEN 2025 has once again affirmed its position as the world’s leading innovation platform and a key driver of the horticulture industry. From January 28 to 31, Messe Essen welcomed the global horticultural community, with an impressive increase in both visitor numbers and international participation.
“The optimism in the green sector is unmistakable,” said Oliver P. Kuhrt, CEO of Messe Essen. “We’ve seen a substantial rise in attendees, a clear testament to the event’s strong appeal and the industry’s confidence in our offering.” This year, IPM ESSEN attracted well over 40,000 trade visitors, reinforcing its status as the premier meeting point for horticulture professionals.
A total of 1,434 exhibitors from 45 countries showcased groundbreaking innovations, from cutting-edge cultivation methods and digital advancements to sustainable plant concepts. With a focus on pressing global challenges—such as climate change, resource conservation, and eco-friendly production—the event underscored the industry’s commitment to forward-thinking solutions.
“The event has proven that horticulture is actively shaping the future,” said Eva Kähler-Theuerkauf, President of the Central Horticultural Association and Chair of the IPM Advisory Board. “Here, trends are born, and solutions take shape. We are entering the horticultural year with strong momentum.”
A High-Caliber Audience Driving Industry Growth
IPM ESSEN 2025 saw a notable increase in purchasing activity, with around 25% of visitors placing orders directly at the fair and two-thirds planning follow-up purchases. The high level of decision-making expertise among attendees was evident, reinforcing the event’s reputation as a top-tier business platform.
Kevin Menting, Marketing Communications Lead Europe at Syngenta, praised the fair’s impact: “IPM ESSEN is an essential event at the start of the year, allowing us to connect with customers and launch the new horticultural season together. We also participated in the new Gardeners’ Forum to highlight plant protection—overall, we are very satisfied.”
The event attracted a diverse international audience, including buyers from leading garden centers, DIY chains, and food retailers. Notably, 44% of visitors came from abroad, marking a five-percentage-point increase from the previous year. Delegations from Turkey, Japan, and Australia explored new products and placed significant orders.
Innovative Programming: Insights, Trends, and Inspiration
IPM ESSEN 2025 introduced an enhanced supporting program, blending knowledge-sharing, innovation, and networking to create added value for attendees.
- The new Gardeners’ Forum in Hall 2 offered hands-on presentations and industry insights.
- The Horticultural Technology Innovation Center in Hall 4 showcased advancements in automation, vertical planting, and medicinal cannabis cultivation.
- The IPM Novelty Showcase honored outstanding plant innovations, with awards going to a flamenco-inspired primrose and a highly floriferous new rose variety.
- Diderk Heinje won multiple awards, including recognition for the Cornus kousa Flower Tower and Hibiscus syriacus Flower Tower Ruby in collaboration with Kordes Jungpflanzen.
Floristry also took center stage at FDF World in Hall 5, where top florists from around the world presented breathtaking floral art. The IPM Trade Fair Cup celebrated creativity in bouquets and container planting, with trainee Yeo Jin Choi from Düsseldorf winning the prestigious combination competition.
At the IPM Discovery Center, Creative Director Romeo Sommers showcased sustainable retail concepts, while industry influencer Michael Perry (Mr. Plant Geek) led exclusive trend tours, highlighting his personal fair favorites.
Sustainability in Focus
Sustainability was a central theme across IPM ESSEN 2025’s discussions and events:
- The Green Cities Europe Award recognized outstanding urban greening projects.
- The BdB Seminar explored solutions for climate-resilient trees.
- The GaLaBau Association’s Future Congress emphasized circular economy models for a greener future.
- For the first time, tree nurseries from North Rhine-Westphalia presented a joint exhibit, with exhibitors reporting unexpectedly high interest from trade visitors.
The event also placed a strong emphasis on attracting the next generation of horticultural professionals. The Career + Future Forum, Green Career Wall, and the We love GREEN careers initiative provided young talents with valuable insights into industry opportunities.
Looking Ahead to IPM ESSEN 2026
Following this year’s success, anticipation is already building for IPM ESSEN 2026, set to take place from January 27 to 30, 2026. Interest remains high, with 86% of exhibitors already confirming their participation and 93% of visitors planning to return.
For more details, visit www.ipm-essen.de.
