LIGNA Sets Future Priorities Following Successful Rebooking, Says Head of LIGNA

FORDAQ Interview Examines LIGNA’s Strategic Direction Following Rebooking Phase

FORDAQ has published an interview with Stephanie Wagner, Head of LIGNA, providing insight into the strategic direction and future priorities of the international trade fair for the woodworking and wood processing industry. The interview coincides with the conclusion of LIGNA’s latest rebooking phase, which organizers report was completed with strong exhibitor participation.

In the interview, Wagner discusses the guiding principles behind upcoming editions of LIGNA and how the event is adapting to ongoing technological, economic, and structural changes within the industry. She describes LIGNA not only as a presentation platform for machinery and technical solutions, but also as a forum for exchange, collaboration, and innovation across the entire industry value chain.

Wagner emphasizes the role of long-term cooperation with exhibitors in maintaining the relevance and impact of the trade fair. According to her, continuous dialogue with participating companies influences both the thematic orientation and organizational structure of LIGNA, helping ensure alignment with current industry requirements and future developments.

The interview also addresses major transformation trends affecting the woodworking and wood processing sector, including digitalization, automation, sustainability initiatives, and evolving global supply chains. Wagner notes that these factors are increasingly interconnected and require integrated approaches rather than isolated solutions. As a result, future editions of LIGNA are expected to place greater emphasis on cross-disciplinary technologies and system-based concepts.

Sustainability and responsible resource management represent another key topic. Wagner points to the growing importance of forestry practices, raw material availability, and efficient processing technologies in industry discussions. She explains that LIGNA aims to reflect these priorities by showcasing solutions that support resource efficiency, sustainable production methods, and environmentally conscious business models.

The timing of the interview is notable, as it follows the successful completion of LIGNA’s rebooking phase. Organizers report that the high level of exhibitor commitment is viewed as a positive indicator for the upcoming event. Wagner interprets this outcome as continued confidence in LIGNA’s role as a central industry platform, despite ongoing economic uncertainty and geopolitical challenges in global markets.

According to Wagner, early rebooking provides greater planning security for both organizers and exhibitors. This, she says, enables a stronger focus on program quality, innovation, and targeted engagement with professional visitors. Maintaining this stability is considered essential for preserving LIGNA’s international reach and appeal.

The interview further highlights LIGNA’s function as a meeting point for both established companies and emerging market participants. Wagner notes that supporting innovation, start-ups, and new business models remains an important objective, as these groups contribute to technological advancement and industry diversification.

Overall, the interview portrays LIGNA as an event undergoing continuous adaptation while retaining its position as a global benchmark for the woodworking and wood processing industry. The combination of strategic planning and strong exhibitor participation suggests that preparations for future editions are progressing steadily.