K 2025 drew more than 175,000 visitors

Attendees at K 2025. Photo Credit: Canadian Plastics

The K 2025 trade show wrapped up on Oct. 15 after eight days in Düsseldorf, Germany, having drawn more than 175,000 trade visitors from approximately 160 countries.

Approximately 3,275 exhibitors from 66 nations across 18 exhibition halls and outdoor areas were also at the show, presenting cutting-edge technologies under the theme The Power of Plastics! Green – Smart – Responsible.

The number of attendees and exhibitors remained stable compared to previous editions of the triennial show, officials with show operator Messe Düsseldorf said in a statement.

“In view of the current difficult economic climate, many companies in the plastics and rubber industry travelled to Düsseldorf with rather subdued expectations,” they said. “But the mood prevailing across the fully occupied exhibition grounds proved outstanding on all trade fair days. The plastics and rubber industry presented itself as more innovative, international and determined than ever to actively shape the transition to more sustainability, digitalization and social responsibility.”

According to Messe Düsseldorf, 73 per cent of all visitors came from abroad and over one third of these from overseas. “A particularly strong representation was seen from China (6,300 visitors) and India (6,400 visitors),” they said. “A total of 10,000 visitors travelled from the U.S. and Brazil to K 2025.”

The trade fair also boasted an above-average ratio of decision-makers (67 per cent).

Ulrich Reifenhäuser, chairman of the K 2025 Exhibitor Advisory Board, emphasized the industry’s resilience during challenging times. “Every three years the global plastics sector comes together here – and for good reason: K is the place where innovations are launched, partnerships are forged, and visions turn into reality,” he said in the statement. “Plastics have been – and will remain – the most important material of our time.”

According to preliminary survey results, 95 per cent of visitors stated that they had achieved their objectives at the trade fair, while 98 per cent of trade visitors rated the range of products and services on offer as excellent or said they were very satisfied with it. “Visitors were especially impressed with the strong presence of market leaders and the multitude of innovators,” show officials said.

The next K will be held in Düsseldorf from Oct. 18 to Oct. 25, 2028.