Sound Bites
SOUND BITES: Fensterbau 2026 is set to frame the future of the window and façade industry
As global pressures reshape the construction landscape, FENSTERBAU FRONTALE 2026 returns to Nuremberg with a renewed mission: to serve not only as a showcase of innovation but as a critical platform for dialogue, knowledge-sharing, and sustainable transformation in the window, door and façade industry.
Running from 24 to 27 March 2026, the world’s leading trade fair confronts the sector’s most pressing issues—from labour shortages and escalating costs to the urgent demand for climate-resilient building solutions. In an interview ahead of the event, senior organisers outlined how the fair is evolving to meet these demands and support an industry at a pivotal juncture.
Supporting an Industry in Transition
For Elke Harreiß, Executive Director of FENSTERBAU FRONTALE, the strength of the fair lies in its capacity to convene a fragmented industry and foster constructive exchange.
“Every two years, FENSTERBAU FRONTALE brings together the international window, door and façade industry in Nuremberg and promotes dialogue between manufacturers, suppliers, architects and tradespeople,” Harreiß explains. “This helps to find new ways and solutions to meet the current challenges facing the industry.”
With a focus on innovation, efficiency and cost-effectiveness, the event will showcase global advances in automation, sustainable materials, and forward-thinking design. An extensive programme of networking opportunities—from expert forums and exhibitor workshops to the FENSTERBAU FRONTALE Stage in Hall 4A—aims to foster collaboration and practical knowledge-sharing.
Sustainability in the Spotlight
The fair’s emphasis on sustainability reflects growing concern over climate resilience and resource efficiency across the construction sector. Chiara Sträßner, Director Exhibition, highlights how these themes are now embedded across the event.
“Sustainability plays a central role at FENSTERBAU FRONTALE,” she says. “It is a decisive criterion in the official evaluation form for the FENSTERBAU FRONTALE Innovation Award.”
In particular, the ‘climate.safe.building’ special show, organised in partnership with ift Rosenheim, offers tangible demonstrations of climate-proof design. Heat-resistant surfaces, adaptive sun protection, recycling processes, and the use of renewable materials are among the solutions featured. Accompanying lectures will delve deeper into CO₂ reduction, grey energy, reparability, and sustainable renovation—addressing both new builds and retrofits.
Beyond the exhibits, sustainability themes will run through sessions in the FENSTERBAU FRONTALE Forum, covering serial construction methods and resource efficiency.
Reimagining the Brand
Ramona Wißmüller, Director Marketing, describes how the event’s recent rebranding reflects a broader evolution in purpose and identity. Now operating under the slogan Framing what’s next., the fair aims to position itself not just as a product exhibition, but as a driver of long-term industry development.
“The brand was given a fresh update to reflect its pioneering and international character,” Wißmüller notes. “The new design and logo create clarity, strengthen brand identity and ensure high recognition across all communication channels.”
This repositioning is also evident in content innovations such as the Stage, which promotes exchange, inspiration and strategic thinking. The emphasis on future-focused discussion marks a shift in how the trade fair sees its role—not just responding to market changes, but helping to shape them.
Looking Ahead
As the construction industry contends with environmental imperatives and economic uncertainty, FENSTERBAU FRONTALE 2026 arrives at a critical moment. By combining product innovation with expert dialogue and a strong commitment to sustainability, the event offers more than a glimpse of what’s to come—it offers a framework for shaping it.
Why This Matters: I don’t think anyone in the fenestration sector should underestimate the importance of Fensterbau in 2026. Economies all over the globe are witnessing significant turmoil. Economic and political pressures are impacting consumer demand and effecting commercial and infrastructure projects. Being ahead on innovation and industry knowledge is so important as firms attempt to navigate this challenging landscape. Ideas, innovation and energy come together at Fensterbau – I would act now to book your flights, hotel and tickets and make sure you are part of the Fensterbau community. (Mark Thompson – Editor)
