Strong figures, global relevance: Inhorgenta 2026 consolidates its leading international position

Inhorgenta 2026 kicked off yesterday with a festive opening ceremony. Until February 23, the Munich exhibition center will once again be the international meeting place for the jewelry, watch, and gemstone industry. 

In six halls at Inhorgenta 2026, exhibitors from around the world will present new products, craftsmanship excellence, and technological innovations along the entire value chain.

With the press conference, which took place for the first time at the heart of the trade fair, Inhorgenta is sending a clear signal: it has long been more than just a traditional trade fair. It is a stage, a meeting place, and a hub of activity. A place that connects commerce, culture, and community—visible, tangible, and experiential.

“Inhorgenta has become much more important in recent years,” says Stefan Rummel, CEO of Messe München. 

Craftsmanship meets innovation: Craftsmanship in the spotlight at Inhorgenta 2026

With “Craftsmanship” as its main theme, Inhorgenta 2026 will put craftsmanship at the center of the entire trade fair for the first time. Over 30 live demonstrations directly at the stands and in curated special areas will transform the trade fair into a lively workshop. 

Watchmakers, goldsmiths, engravers, gem setters, and other specialists demonstrate their skills in direct exchange with the professional audience. Special areas such as MasterCraft Live and the Craftsmanship Area illustrate how much expertise, time, and precision go into each individual piece of work. A cultural heritage is brought to life and carried into the future. Questions about origin, craftsmanship, and the people behind the product are becoming increasingly important. 

“The German manufacturing landscape is a valuable asset—every design reflects genuine craftsmanship and the promise of ‘Made in Germany’ quality,” says Nina Friesleben, head designer at Niessing.

“Technologies such as 3D design, laser technology, and CNC milling are now an integral part of even small studios. They enable more precise, sustainable manufacturing and raise quality to a new level. At the same time, traditional techniques such as lapidary work and glazing are making a comeback. Technology does not replace craftsmanship—it complements and refines it,” says Stefanie Mändlein, Exhibition Director of Inhorgenta.

Strong figures, global relevance

With around 900 exhibitors, 1,200 brands from 35 countries, and 65,000 square meters of exhibition space in six halls, Inhorgenta underscores its established position in the global market. Over the past three years, the trade fair has recorded a cumulative increase in exhibitors of 12 percent. 

International exhibitors account for 55 percent of the total—a clear sign of the event’s global relevance. Partner initiatives from Italy, Switzerland, France, India, and other markets further strengthen international networking. 

There is great excitement about the return of some well-known names: in the watch sector, Maurice Lacroix, MeisterSinger, and Wolf are returning to Munich, while in the jewelry segment, Henrich & Denzel, Pesavento, and Tirisi are making a comeback. Fresh impetus is provided by new international exhibitors such as the French haute joaillerie house Akillis, the Italian manufacturers Govoni Gioielli, Busatti Milano, and Grimaldo, the Spanish brand Takto, the British trend brand Ania Haie, Edblad from Sweden, Rosefield from the Netherlands, and Kinraden from Denmark. Partner brands Piaget and Oris will be represented in the FHH Cultural Space.

Industry shows strength

Despite geopolitical uncertainties and volatile markets, the industry continues to perform robustly. Dr. Guido Grohmann, Managing Director of the German Jewelry and Watch Industry Association, speaks of “brilliant figures in a challenging operating environment.” 

Exports rose by 5.9 percent for watches and 13.3 percent for jewelry. Imports of watches rose by 0.8 percent, while those of jewelry rose by 10.9 percent. A significant portion of the increase in value is price-driven, particularly due to the sharp rise in precious metal prices. 

Stephan Lindner, president of the Jewelers Trade Association, also confirms the stable development: “In 2025, both product ranges achieved growth of 2.1 percent. The motto among buyers is: ‘If you’re going to do it, do it right.’ Gold jewelry, custom-made items, and strong brands in the top segment are performing extremely well.”

The dominance of brick-and-mortar specialty retailers is remarkable: in the jewelry sector, their market share is 73 percent, higher than in any other industry:

FHH Cultural Space: Culture, Knowledge, Experience

A particular highlight is the renewed collaboration and official partnership with the Fondation Haute Horlogerie. The FHH Cultural Space in Hall A1 combines a curated exhibition on the history and future of haute horlogerie with interactive workshops and presentations by strong partner brands such as Oris and Piaget.

The value of a watch is often reduced to its price, image, or investment potential. But “watchmaking is much more than a product,” emphasizes Pascal Ravessoud, Vice President of the Fondation Haute Horlogerie. “It stands for culture, craftsmanship, and responsibility toward future generations.”

Premium, performance, perspectives: A place for genuine encounters

Inhorgenta brings glamour to Munich’s exhibition center in Riem: design, atmosphere, luxury. But the most valuable thing remains real human interaction – both in brick-and-mortar stores and at the trade fair.

Luxury, aesthetics, and hospitality are no longer extras, but expectations. Social media has raised standards: jewelry and watches need staging, haptics, and storytelling. In a world of uncertainty, the need for authenticity is growing.

“In an uncertain world, people no longer want perfection, but truth. Because truth creates trust. And trust gives people hope,” says Pablo Cimadevila, gold medalist at the 2000 Paralympics and internationally renowned goldsmith with millions of followers on social media. 

He demonstrates how storytelling changes the perception of jewelry: “Jewelry is about people. And emotions.”

Stage for excellence – supporting program and award

With three stages, five exhibitions, and over 25 event areas, Inhorgenta offers a comprehensive supporting program: Watch Talks, Trendfactory, Guided Tours, Trend Showcases, The Atelier, Silbertriennale International, and the new Precious Metals Forum. Over 100 international speakers will discuss key topics for the future—from design and brand management to innovation in materials and technology.

Another highlight is the Inhorgenta Award, which will be presented on February 21, 2026, at Bavaria Film Studios. Nazan Eckes will host the glamorous gala, accompanied by music from singer LOI. With 148 entries, the award has set a new record, underscoring its growing international significance. 

Outstanding creations will be honored in ten categories. New additions include the categories “Goldsmith of the Year,” “Jeweler of the Year,” and “Luxury Watch of the Year | Public Choice.”

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