IWIN shines at duo of leading trade shows
Irish Wood and Interiors Network makes its mark at both Interzum and Ligna
The Irish Wood and Interiors Network (IWIN) recently made a strong impression at two of the world’s leading trade fairs: Interzum in Cologne and LIGNA in Hanover.
These events not only showcased Ireland’s manufacturing capability but also offered valuable insights into global trends shaping the contract interiors and woodworking industries.
Interzum 2025: First-time collaboration yields big results
At Interzum, IWIN collaborated for the first time with member companies Merenda, the Galtee Group, and OVVO. The joint stand attracted hundreds of visitors, including over 100 Irish representatives, and generated genuine interest from international markets such as Australia, South Africa, the Middle East, and the USA.
Flying the flag for Irish businesses
Another award-winning Ovvo solution
OVVO’s new drawer runner, developed with Hettich, won an award for Best Product. The tool-free, click-system installation stood out for its simplicity and innovation, highlighting the high level of R&D coming from Irish manufacturers.
The fair also spotlighted a clear design trend: a shift away from bold, high-contrast colours toward more natural, understated finishes like muted pastels and timber veneers. Tile-like finishes and texture-rich surfaces from companies like Egger were widely featured across leading European stands.
LIGNA 2025: Strengthening international ties
The following week at LIGNA, the network’s presence continued with a coordinated group visit and networking activities. A highlight was the “Irish Night” reception, co-hosted and sponsored by Maginn Machinery, which brought together 90 attendees including suppliers, customers, and technology partners.
Combilift had one of the largest stands at the show and was a prominent presence. Their founder and managing director, Martin McVicar, warmly welcomed all Irish attendees and showcased their latest forklifting technology. After a busy day exploring the aisles, enjoying a well-earned pint of Guinness in the Combilift bar was the perfect way to unwind.
Elsewhere, automation and digital twin technologies were in focus. Leading manufacturers such as Hütten Hölscher and Homag demonstrated cloud-based production systems and data-driven planning environments that enable better forecasting and leaner operations.
AI and human-machine iIntegration
A standout trend across both shows was the growing role of AI and automation in manufacturing. Companies like Biesse and Poland’s Next CNC introduced AI assistants capable of interacting with users via natural voice commands. These systems simplify machine operation and reduce the need for highly specialised operators — a step towards more accessible, efficient production lines.
Imos, another standout at LIGNA, showcased its imos iX and imos AI suite, designed specifically for furniture and interior manufacturers. These tools enable a fully digital workflow from design to machine, offering automated design assistance, cost calculation, and CNC data generation. imos AI also features intelligent voice-guided interfaces, allowing users to control production processes and access system data without needing extensive training. The result is increased efficiency, reduced errors, and more intuitive machine operation.
OneQrew, the new platform behind InteriorCAD (formerly Extragroup), also caught attention. Their solution integrates ERP, CAD/CAM, DMS, and production modules into one seamless workflow, offering full transparency from design to delivery. This level of system integration is increasingly valuable as manufacturers seek to improve speed, traceability, and decision-making.
One of IWIN's famous Irish nights – convivial networking they call it …
Looking ahead
Irish participation at Interzum and LIGNA in 2025 has laid a solid foundation for future engagement. These events demonstrated that Ireland’s manufacturers are not only competitive they’re ahead of the curve in product development, design awareness, and digital transformation.
With the next editions of Interzum and LIGNA in 2027 already on the horizon, IWIN plans to return with an even stronger presence, reinforcing Ireland’s position as a serious player in international contract interiors and wood-based manufacturing.
