SHERIDAN, WYOMING – Feb. 6, 2025, – The ISM 2025 in Cologne has once again solidified its position as the world's leading trade fair for sweets and snacks. Despite global challenges, the industry showcased its resilience and innovative spirit, drawing a record number of exhibitors and visitors.
Record Attendance and Exhibitor Growth
This year's ISM saw a 5.5% increase in exhibitors, with over 1,500 companies from 70 countries showcasing their latest products and innovations. The exhibition space also expanded by 5%, reflecting the dynamic growth of the industry. Visitor numbers were equally impressive, with approximately 32,000 trade professionals from 135 countries attending the event, a 7% increase from the previous year.
"With increasing visitor and exhibitor numbers as well as a growing exhibition space, ISM continues its clear upward trend," said Gerald Böse, CEO of Koelnmesse GmbH. "As a global driving force for innovations and trends, ISM sets standards for the booming global sweets and snacks industry – with a strong content and event program, renowned speakers and new formats for creators that inspire and connect the industry.”
ISM and ProSweets Cologne: A Powerful Duo
The ISM, in conjunction with ProSweets Cologne, the international supplier fair for the sweets and snacks industry, created the world’s largest industry gathering. This unique combination provided a comprehensive overview of the entire value chain, from raw materials and packaging to finished products.
The new Sweet Week Production Summit further enhanced the synergy between the two fairs, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange between manufacturers, retailers, and industry experts.
Navigating Challenges, Embracing Opportunities
Bastian Fassin, Chairman of the International Sweets and Biscuits Fair (AISM) working group, highlighted the industry's resilience in the face of challenges: "The sweets and snacks industry is facing major challenges, but also new opportunities, such as through the EU's trade agreement with Mercosur. In times of economic uncertainty, continued exceptionally high cocoa prices and growing bureaucratic hurdles, ISM is proving to be a strong partner and platform for the industry.”
Global Participation and Industry Leaders
The ISM attracted a strong international audience, with over 70% of visitors coming from outside Germany. Key European markets were well represented, including Belgium, the UK, Italy, the Netherlands, and Spain. Significant growth was also seen in visitor numbers from Cyprus, Israel, Mexico, and Romania.
Leading retailers from around the world attended the event, including Aeon, Albert Heijn, Aldi, Bartels-Langness, Colruyt Group, Coop, Costco, Edeka, Globus, Jumbo Supermarkten, Mercadona, Metro, Migros, Rewe Group, S Group, Salling Group, Schwarz Group, SPAR International, and Walmart.
Trends and Innovations
Sustainability, transparency, health, functionality, and innovative flavor combinations were key themes at ISM 2025. The trend towards "Snacks On The Go" was also evident, with many new products catering to consumers seeking convenient and healthy snacking options.
The Lab5 by ISM proved to be a popular attraction, showcasing trend snacks, start-ups, scale-ups, and new product innovations. The integration of the Raw Materials & Ingredients and Packaging sections from ProSweets Cologne further enhanced the experience, connecting manufacturers with suppliers and fostering innovation.
Expert Stage and Sweet Week Talks & Tasting
The Expert Stage provided a platform for in-depth discussions on industry challenges and opportunities. Experts addressed topics such as sugar reduction strategies, sustainable cocoa farming, and plant-based protein alternatives. Renowned food expert and futurist Hanni Rützler and food journalist Bettina Röttig explored how the entire value chain is adapting to changing consumer expectations.
The Sweet Week Talks & Tasting stage offered a dynamic program of live podcasts, influencer tastings, expert panels, and product presentations.
Awards and Recognition
The ISM Award 2025 recognized Ulrich Zuenelli, Managing Partner of Loacker, for his outstanding contributions to the confectionery industry. Primus Wafer Paper BV from the Netherlands won the New Product Showcase Award for their Yummy Super Sour Candy Paper. The ISM Consumer Award went to Treets Vegan Crunchy Corn.
#ISMfamily: Global Networking and Digital Engagement
The Creator Program on Sunday, featuring tastings, tours, and workshops on the future of sweets and snacks, further established ISM as a content platform and expanded its digital reach. Influencers and content creators like @crispyrob, @heymoritz, @Joeskochwelt, @nathaliegleitman, @piaundhalloumi, and the Naschkatzen podcast hosts attended the event, creating content and sharing industry trends with their global audiences.
ISM Satellite Events: Global Expansion
Information booths for ISM Middle East and ISM Japan highlighted the growing global reach of the ISM brand. These satellite events provide platforms for international exchange and networking, supporting both local and global businesses in the sweets and snacks industry.
ISM 2025 in Numbers
- 1,513 exhibitors from 70 countries (89% international)
- 32,000 trade visitors from 135 countries (71% international)
The next ISM will take place from February 1-4, 2026.