Dear IFES Community,
A very warm welcome to 2026 – a year that promises to be filled with opportunity, growth, and renewed global collaboration. As we step into this new chapter together, I am energised by the momentum our association has built and excited for what lies ahead for our industry and our global network.
This year is already shaping up to be a landmark year for physical meetings and face-to-face engagement. We begin strongly with BOE in January, the perfect springboard into the dynamic environment of our Lighthouse Event EuroShop 2026 in February in Germany. Both gatherings stand out as powerful reminders of the irreplaceable value of in-person encounters, where ideas flow freely, partnerships form organically, and innovation thrives.
And there is much more to look forward to. In June, our global community will come together at the next IFES World Summit in Dubai – an event that promises real future inspiration and strategic insight. As the year progresses, our MasterClasses in the US and Europe will continue to build capabilities, spark innovation, and strengthen the future professional backbone of our industry.
Later in the year, many of us will reunite once more in Mexico for the UFI Global Congress in Guadalajara – another opportunity to highlight the strength of our global collaborations and the shared vision that unites us. And there are so many other events still ahead for us to connect, each one offering a valuable reminder of how powerful we are when we collaborate.
On a personal note, as I serve you in my second year, I am truly looking forward to seeing many of you throughout the upcoming 12 months. Our events gain their meaning from YOU – the people who bring them to life – your positivity, your relevance to the industry, your drive for business opportunities, and above all, the friendships that make IFES so unique. I am happy and grateful to be part of this community.
Wishing each of you a superb start to 2026. Let’s create some meaningful moments to share with the global community.
Warm regards
Jorg
