A flagship event and industry gathering for the future of the events sector

More than 50 speakers and numerous trade visitors gathered in Frankfurt. Over the course of two days, the focus was on current challenges, new developments and concrete solutions. Across several stages and in thematically curated areas, wtf26 offered a diverse programme featuring keynote talks, discussions and interactive formats. The event was not conceived as a traditional conference, but rather as an open ‘future lab’ – practical, collaborative and dialogue-oriented.

Turning challenges into solutions

Organisers, speakers and guests addressed the industry’s key issues: the use of artificial intelligence, sustainable event formats, attracting and retaining skilled staff, economic conditions, political decisions, accessibility, diversity and the social significance of face-to-face encounters.

Across the thematic areas of People, Sustainability, Politics, Business and Forward, it became clear just how diverse the changes currently shaping the events industry are. The focus was on how the industry can respond to technological, social and economic developments and actively help shape them.

In keynote speeches, panel discussions, deep dives, workshops and other interactive formats, experts outlined concrete solutions. Topics discussed included how artificial intelligence is transforming communication and decision-making processes; the role of the circular economy and reuse strategies in sustainable events; how organisations are evolving their working environments; and the contribution live communication makes to providing direction, facilitating exchange and fostering social cohesion.

Topics such as storytelling, leadership in times of uncertainty, informal hierarchies, sustainable exhibition stands and new forms of experience also made it clear that the future of the events industry is taking shape at the intersections between technology and people, business and responsibility, and strategy and implementation.

Formats for interaction, innovation and collaboration

Innovative companies, partners and projects presented forward-looking ideas, products and tried-and-tested solutions for the events industry in various sessions and exhibition areas.

The open-plan layout encouraged professional exchange beyond the stages. Spontaneous conversations, new partnerships and interdisciplinary perspectives characterised the atmosphere. The evening event also provided an opportunity to deepen contacts and further expand the network. As a result, wtf26 developed not only into a platform for professional inspiration, but once again into an important industry gathering.

“When the events industry comes together, new perspectives emerge. wtf26 has shown just how strong the desire is not only to discuss change, but to shape it together. The openness, the depth of expertise and the direct exchange have once again highlighted the potential that lies within our industry when we act in a connected, courageous and solution-oriented manner,” said Larissa Klegraf, wtf26 project manager.

Association discussions as part of the ‘Zukunftsformat’

The Annual General Meeting of fwd: Bundesvereinigung Veranstaltungswirtschaft e. V. took place on 26 June 2026 as part of wtf26. In doing so, fwd: combined its members’ meeting with the professional insights offered by the industry gathering, creating additional opportunities for discussion and networking.

Commitment as a key to success

The successful staging of wtf26 was only possible thanks to the involvement of numerous dedicated partners. Institutions, companies and individuals provided conceptual, organisational and financial support for the event.

Special thanks go to all partners and supporters of wtf26, including the Frankfurt Convention Bureau / Tourismus+Congress GmbH Frankfurt am Main, PALAIS FRANKFURT / spaces mgt GmbH,Rent.Group, satis&fy, TASTE OF NOW, Kuffler Catering and many other dedicated industry players.