From January 28 to 31, 2025, the city of Essen in the Ruhr region will become the global hub of horticulture, as the next edition of IPM ESSEN takes place. This event is considered the largest and most important horticultural trade fair in the world and attracts exhibitors and visitors from all over the globe every year. But what makes IPM ESSEN such a special opportunity for florists? Let’s take a look at why it’s worth adding this fair to your calendar.
IPM ESSEN 2025: What Should You Know?
This year’s edition will feature around 1,600 exhibitors from nearly 50 countries. During IPM ESSEN, the latest trends will be presented in the following areas:
- Plants – from cut flowers to potted plants, exotic species to bonsai trees.
- Garden Technology – automation, gardening machinery, irrigation systems, and innovative plant technologies.
- Floristry – floral creations, modern bouquet techniques, artistic and extravagant arrangements and installations.
- Shop and Garden Equipment – modern pots, floristry tools, seasonal decorations, and eco-friendly solutions.
Notably, all major companies and market leaders will be present at the event. It’s a unique opportunity to see firsthand which innovations and trends are shaping the future of the floral industry.
Floristry at IPM ESSEN 2025
Although IPM ESSEN is primarily a horticultural trade fair, it offers florists a true treasure trove of inspiration. Here are a few reasons why it’s worth a visit:
Floristry Master Shows
On a special stage in Hall 5, top-tier shows will take place featuring well-known and admired floristry masters from across Europe. Noteworthy names include:
- Josef Dirr, Lena Hartmann & Jennifer Mühlbauer (Germany) – “Spring Fever”: A show full of fresh spring inspiration, vibrant colors, and light forms.
- Victoria Salomon, Christopher Ernst & Patricia Jung (Germany) – “Love is in the air: The Wedding Special”: Exclusive wedding arrangements inspired by love and romance.
- Hanneke Frankema (Netherlands), Tom de Houwer (Belgium), Krisztian Kövér (Hungary), Iza Tkaczyk (Poland) – “Pure Perfection Passion”: An international perspective on perfection in floral design.
- Floos Academy Team (Spain) – “The Crafter’s Secret”: Techniques and secrets behind masterful floral creations.
Each of these shows is a one-of-a-kind opportunity to see the best in action and discover new techniques and trends for the upcoming season.
The Latest Trends in Floristry
IPM ESSEN is the place to discover the latest floristry trends and gain insights from international experts. Key trends for 2025 include:
- Eco-friendly Solutions – sustainable floristry, material recycling, and biodegradable decorations.
- Minimalism – simple yet impactful arrangements highlighting the natural beauty of flowers.
- Nature-inspired Design – using organic materials like stones, moss, and wood in décor.
- Digital Technologies – modern tools for flower shop management and online sales.
Networking and Encounters
Face-to-face interactions with other florists, producers, and suppliers are invaluable. It’s an opportunity to build connections, start collaborations, and exchange experiences. At one location, you can meet representatives from:
- FDF – Germany’s largest florist association.
- Smithers Oasis – global leader in floral foam manufacturing.
- Stefan Buhk Blumen – a wholesale supplier with a wide plant range.
- Van der Plas – renowned flower and plant supplier.
- Decorum – a network of premium potted plant producers.
- Fleurop – international flower delivery service.
- FleuraMetz – global supplier of cut flowers, potted plants, and floral supplies.
- Bloom’s – an inspiring floristry magazine.
Try Out Innovations
At IPM ESSEN, you can test the offered products directly: decorations, tools, pots, both fresh and artificial flowers. This is the best way to assess the quality and potential of new solutions for your shop.
Seminars and Workshops for Florists
Special seminars and workshops will also be held for florists during IPM ESSEN 2025, covering topics such as:
- Modern bouquet techniques
- Innovations in plant storage
- Eco-friendly solutions for flower shops
- Marketing strategies for florists
Perfect Timing
The timing of the fair is ideal for florists – after Christmas but before Valentine’s Day. It’s the perfect moment to breathe, get inspired, and prepare for a new year full of challenges.
Any Drawbacks?
Are there any disadvantages to visiting IPM ESSEN? For some, travel and accommodation costs might be a concern. But ask yourself: isn’t it worth stepping out of your daily routine to invest in professional growth and fresh inspiration?
Final Thoughts: Dive Into a World of Flowers and Emotions
IPM ESSEN is an event full of emotion, encounters, and inspiration. Every florist with a passion for flowers will find something for themselves. Floristry is all about emotion, and IPM ESSEN is the best place to experience it. Don’t wait – prepare for an unforgettable journey into the world of flowers.
Let’s meet – see you soon at IPM ESSEN 2025!
Author:
Anna Janas
