ISM Cologne reports encouraging response from expanded range of ingredients exhibitors

The organisers of ISM in Cologne have reported an upturn in response from exhibitors, with a total of 40% more space booked from exhibitors in the ingredients segment for its sister ProSweets show compared against last year, writes Neill Barston.

Taking place between 1-4 February 2026, the next editions of the combined shows mark a new phase in their development, with a fresh focus on functionality, sustainable materials, as well as functional ingredients for both the sweets and snacks sectors.

As the events’ teams noted, key brands including Brenntag, Döhler, GNT and Olam have already confirmed as exhibitors for the next edition of the shows, which are being staged in the show’s traditional Koelnmesse location.

Significantly, ISM noted that the new platform is a reaction to the growing significance of ingredients as innovation drivers – particularly against the backdrop of the rising prices for raw materials, disrupted supply chains and the growing demands for sustainability.

The market is clearly signalising its approval even prior to the premiere: The amount of exhibition space booked, where the Ingredients section was formerly located, is almost 40% up compared to the figures for ProSweets Cologne 2025. Other confirmed businesses to participate include Dreidoppel, Sethness Roquette, SternEnzym, Freeze-Dry Foods (Paradiesfrucht), Coppenrath Feingebäck as well as a pavilion organised by the Istanbul Exporters Association.

“The strong response shows that there is a concrete need for a focused and future-oriented Ingredients platform with international reach among the producers of sweets and snacks,” commented Guido Hentschke, Director ProSweets Cologne & ISM Ingredients. “Especially the combination between functional, natural and technologically relevant ingredients opens up new perspectives for innovation, added value and consumer relevance.”

Revised format
As ISM noted, with the introduction of ISM Ingredients, not only a new trade fair format is being created, but indeed a promising platform that offers answers to the industry’s key future questions – from functional ingredients and sustainable raw material solutions, through to technologically effective natural components. In combination with ISM and ProSweets Cologne a strong trade fair trio is arising that completely interlinks the entire value chain of the sweets and snacks industry for the first time – from the development of formulas, to the production and packaging, through to the positioning at the point of sale..

The target group of ISM Ingredients encompasses the producers of sweets and snacks, including specifically procurement decision-makers, product developers, innovation departments, manufacturers, trademark developers as well as trade visitors from the food service sector. The trade fair is placing the focus on themes like health and functionality, fermentation, sensory innovations, clean label products, upcycling and natural ingredients. The Special Show Ingredients forms a special highlight. In the course of the show, innovative start-ups will present their solutions and actively engage in a dialogue with the industry and investors.