glasstec 2026 will introduce six new supporting-programme formats when the international glass trade fair takes place in Düsseldorf from 20 to 23 October 2026.
The new programme expands the event beyond exhibition stands, with dedicated formats covering networking, glass finishing, building safety, start-ups, machinery regulation and machine connectivity.
Women in Glass will debut on 20 October in Hall 10, bringing together women from manufacturing, technology, design, research and management for presentations, a panel discussion and networking.
Also on 20 October, GlassPrint LIVE will examine developments in digital and screen printing, including market trends, functionalisation, efficiency and more sustainable finishing processes. The session will take place on Stage 1 in Hall 10. 
In Hall 11, the BMWE Young Innovators Joint Stand will showcase young German technology companies developing products, processes and services for the glass industry.
Building safety takes centre stage at the new ift Rosenheim Special Exhibition “safe – innovative – sustainable” in Hall 10. Across all four days, visitors can see live demonstrations addressing hail, flooding, storms, overheating, burglary and vandalism, alongside solutions such as vacuum insulation glazing and low-CO₂ glazing.
On 23 October, the GIMAV Roundtable will address AI, cybersecurity, software updates, liability and the new EU Machinery Regulation.
Meanwhile, Connected Machines in Hall 15 will demonstrate cross-vendor machine communication, including OPC UA FX and multi-vendor data exchange.
Source: glasstec 2026 with additional information added by Glass Balkan
