The relocation adds an established imaging industry event to Koelnmesse’s portfolio. The cooperation was announced during the TIPA World Awards Ceremony at Imaging World 2026 in Nuremberg. From 2027, Koelnmesse will assume the role of organiser, contributing its international trade fair expertise and industry network.
RINGFOTO will remain closely involved as a key partner. The company will provide its market knowledge, its connections with the imaging industry and specialist retailers, and core elements of the existing event concept. Together, both partners plan to develop the format in line with market requirements and gradually expand its visibility.
“Imaging World inspired by photokina brings an established event format with a clear profile and a committed community to Cologne,” says Oliver Frese, Chief Operating Officer of Koelnmesse. The trade fair company will draw on the imaging expertise and international industry contacts it built over several decades through photokina.
Imaging World combines a traditional trade fair exhibition with product experiences, creative practice and professional exchange. Interactive playgrounds and an extensive programme of workshops and seminars allow participants to test equipment under real-world conditions. Photography remains a central element, while video, audio, lighting, software, printing, smartphone applications and technologies for content production are also part of the programme.
The event is aimed at manufacturers, distributors, brands, specialist retailers, professional users, content creators and committed amateur photographers. It connects business dialogue with direct product presentation and practical application.
The addition “inspired by photokina” refers to Cologne’s long-standing imaging heritage and international industry network. However, the event is not a relaunch of photokina. It remains an independent format that builds on Cologne’s industry expertise while addressing current technologies, media and production processes.
As a well-connected trade fair, media and creative industry location, Cologne offers scope for further cooperation and new content. Its universities, training institutions and active photography, video and content creation community can also contribute to the event’s development. Selected photo walks and community formats across the city are planned for future editions.
Further information on the 2027 programme, participating companies and ticket options will be announced at a later date.
Further information on the trade fair city Cologne can be found here.