Formnext 2025 marked the tenth anniversary of the world’s largest additive manufacturing (AM) trade fair, confirming the technology’s established role in industrial production. Held from 18 to 21 November in Frankfurt, the event drew 38,282 visitors, nearly half from outside Germany, and 804 exhibitors, 61 percent of them international. Covering roughly 50,000 square meters, the fair presented new AM systems, advanced materials, and artificial-intelligence-driven automation workflows. Despite economically challenging conditions, attendance reached record levels, reinforcing AM’s transition from emerging innovation to mainstream manufacturing tool.
Organizers reported a consistently positive atmosphere in the halls, with long technical discussions reflecting strong engagement between visitors and exhibitors. Formnext’s tenth edition also highlighted how AM is being integrated into established supply chains. Companies unveiled metal and polymer systems built on new production architectures and introduced materials designed for higher mechanical performance and broader process compatibility. Several exhibitors showcased digital platforms applying AI from design to automation to improve repeatability and shorten manufacturing lead times.
“Additive Manufacturing is no longer a promise for the future, but a reality in numerous industries,” said Sascha F. Wenzler, Vice President Formnext at Mesago Messe Frankfurt GmbH, which organizes the event. “With progress, however, come new challenges. And this is exactly where Formnext comes in: It showcases solutions for the ongoing industrialization of AM, greater supply-chain flexibility, and the technology’s increased accessibility for SMEs.” Petra Haarburger, President of Mesago Messe Frankfurt GmbH, added: “Formnext shows how important it is to not only make progress visible, but to work together to drive the transformation of industrial manufacturing forward. Just like our slogan says: Driving technologies by connecting bright minds.”
Industry attendees and exhibitors cited the variety and technical depth of technologies as defining strengths. Phillip Chang, Product Developer at Mobile Outfitters, said his first visit offered “a broad offer on companies, from small and medium-sized to big key players,” and that the diversity of solutions motivated him to return next year. Rodin Cars, a New Zealand-based high-performance car manufacturer, described AM as integral to both research and final-part production. Team members Michael Blair and Andrew Murton said they were “excited and inspired by what we have seen.” Frank Zimmer, Staff Engineer at TE Connectivity GmbH, remarked that “everything that is new can be seen here first,” referencing the fair’s coverage of the entire AM process chain.
Expanded program for the tenth anniversary
Formnext 2025 introduced new supporting formats alongside its main stages and showcases. The program featured guided tours, AM live demonstrations, and an expanded Formnext Awards ceremony on 20 November. Six awards were presented: PERFI Technologies received the Start-up Award; IAM3DHUB won the Rookie Award for its “3DMyMask” project; Laempe Mössner Sinto GmbH earned the (R)Evolution Award; Hochschule für Gestaltung Schwäbisch Gmünd took the Design Award; EOS GmbH Electro Optical Systems won the Sustainability Award; and Irena Heuzeroth of SKZ KFE GmbH was named AMbassador of the Year.
“Formnext has shown that it’s far more than just a trade fair; it’s a source of inspiration and home to a steadily growing global fAMily,” said Christoph Stüker, Vice President Formnext at Mesago Messe Frankfurt GmbH.
International engagement and industry perspectives
The 2025 fair maintained strong international participation, with attendees from more than 30 countries. Exhibitors noted both high traffic and the quality of technical discussions. Graphy, a South Korean developer of shape-memory aligner materials, said that partnerships initiated at Formnext since 2019 have supported its global expansion. “Formnext is the right place to present our portfolio,” stated Sim Un Seob, Graphy CEO. Stefan Krzykowski, Area Sales Manager at MHG Strahlanlagen GmbH, reported increased visitor numbers and productive exchanges. Gabriele Natale, CEO of moi composites, which develops thermoset composite 3D printing technologies, confirmed that “Formnext is the place to be to show off advancement in AM.”
3D Systems, a U.S. additive-manufacturing pioneer, credited Formnext with sustaining its industry reach. “Their efforts enable us to continuously make an impact in the additive manufacturing industry and connect with decision makers year after year,” said Cassie Harris, the company’s Global Tradeshow Manager.
Presentations from the Industry and Application Stages will soon be available on Formnext’s YouTube channel and Formnext.TV, extending access to attendees and remote viewers. The next edition is scheduled for 17–20 November 2026 in Frankfurt am Main.
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Featured photo shows Crowded aisles at Formnext 2025. Photo via Formnext/Mesago Messe Frankfurt/Mathias Kutt.
