IMEX 2026: Why design matters

IMEX 2026: Why design matters

IMEX Design Wed, Apr 29, 2026

3 Mins

Design Matters' takes center stage at IMEX Frankfurt 2026

Design is the ultimate differentiator. When attention is scarce and expectations are high, it’s design—visual, emotional, architectural, experiential—that helps organizations, brands and events stand out and be remembered.

The World Economic Forum predicts that creative thinking and curiosity will be among the most-in-demand skills by 2030—skills that design naturally fosters. And Frankfurt has been named World Design Capital for 2026. So, we’re inviting the global events industry to embrace design as a business superpower. Because it matters.

"Sameness doesn’t serve anyone. Not attendees looking for meaningful experiences. Not exhibitors trying to stand out. And not an industry built on the belief that live events create something vital and visceral that digital channels can’t replace. 

Design matters because it’s how we honor the people in the room. It’s how we turn intention into experience. And it’s how we make work that’s remembered."

Carina Bauer, CEO, IMEX Group

Read more about Design Matters in an interview with IMEX CEO, Carina Bauer on:

https://link.assetfile.io/67fsjJbgSJdjcZB2xTeNUC/Q1+Design+Matters+report.pdf?utm_medium=email&utm_term=N%2FA&utm_source=CIPROD&utm_content=MAR_2026_Q1_report_db_email1&utm_campaign=MAR_Q1_report_dm_database#msdynmkt_trackingcontext=367f7af6-c251-4712-808a-10fe36050000

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IMEX 2026: Why design matters

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