In the tradeshow and event industry, adversity often presents us with an opportunity to demonstrate resiliency, strength, and showcase our ability to exceed expectations. This year, The International Federation of Exhibition and Event Services (IFES) accomplished such a feat.
In late March, IFES made the difficult decision to move the IFES World Summit 2026 from its scheduled location in Dubai to Munich, following careful consideration of the current geopolitical context and consultation with key industry stakeholders and local authorities.
Remarkably, with less than three months of preparation, the IFES World Summit 2026 brought the global IFES network together in Munich from 16–19 June for four days of learning, discussion, connection and shared perspective.
Held under the theme “Navigating Change, Shaping What’s Next”, this year’s Summit created space for the exhibition and event services community to look closely at the forces shaping our industry, from technology, AI and market development to experiential expectations, future talent, outreach, creativity and collaboration. Munich, with its strong exhibition heritage and international business culture, proved a fitting setting for a program focused on progress, resilience and practical exchange.
The Summit opened on Wednesday with the IFES Annual General Meeting, bringing members together to reflect on the Federation’s direction and the priorities ahead. The afternoon included a visit to the Dachau Memorial Site, offering delegates a moment of deep reflection before the evening gathering at Bavarie at BMW World, sponsored by the US’s Willwork Global Event Services.
Thursday began with the IFES Talent Team (An IFES committee for next-generation professionals) morning run before the official opening with IFES Board member Han Leenhouts. The day explored future market direction, data and research outlooks with Sebastian Witt, followed by Rico Bakker and “The Power of a Bad Idea”. In the afternoon, delegates moved into networking sessions before turning to one of the most important conversations of the moment: AI, ethics and the social impact of technology, led by Dr Auxane Boch. The day closed with my friend and former colleague, Charles Pappas, who presented, “Steal This Idea: Six Trends from Expo 2025 & One Lie” before delegates continued the conversation over dinner at Hofbräuhaus.
Friday built on this momentum with a direct look at audience engagement, experience design and future-facing communication. A thought-provoking panel on “What makes us the Unique Buying Reason for our Clients” moderated by IFES President Jörg Zeissig, brought together voices from across the industry, including representatives connected to Holtmann+, Damböck and Messe München. Helena Klaus then explored scalable outreach in a world shaped by LinkedIn, TikTok and Instagram, while Hannah Cox shared “Project Salt Run – A Story of What’s Possible”, offering a powerful deeply personal reminder of what focus, commitment and imagination can achieve. The event concluded with the handover to host city Lake Garda, Italy and a rousing closing session.
The next IFES World Summit will take place in beautiful Lake Garda, Italy from 15-18 June 2027, bringing the global IFES community together under the theme “(Re)Design the Future Together.” www.ifesnet.com
By John Pavek, Director of Partner Development, Willwork Global Event Services. Former Executive Board member of IFES and Past-President of the Upper Midwest Chapter of EDPA.
