ZELLCHEMING-Expo 2026, the German fair and congress for the pulp, paper, and fiber-based industries, has opened its doors this week at the RheinMain CongressCenter (RMCC) in Wiesbaden. Organized by the German association of paper producers, the annual event brings together the entire industrial value chain over three intensive days.

A high-profile congress programme
The opening keynote is delivered by renowned futurist Lars Thomsen, under the title "Winds of Change 2030 – Navigating Times of Major Shifts", exploring how bioeconomy, energy, digitalization, and augmented intelligence can serve as strategic levers for the fiber-based industry. The technical programme covers pressing themes including fiber recycling and circular solutions, digital futures with AI and intelligent fibers, and functional & innovative fiber applications. Dedicated sessions also address process optimization — including enzyme-based solutions for reducing energy and chemical consumption — alongside workshops led by ZELLCHEMING's specialized technical committees. 

Networking is a cornerstone of the event, with an after-show gathering on Tuesday evening, the Women4Paper forum on Wednesday, and a Career Day on Thursday targeting the next generation of industry professionals.

Around 120 exhibitors on the floor
Some 120 exhibitors are expected at the 2026 edition, with around 3,000 visitors anticipated — confirming ZELLCHEMING's status as one of the central European meeting point for decision-makers and technical experts. Exhibitors span the full spectrum of the industry, from plant engineering and measurement technology to IT integration and automation solutions. Among the companies present: Bellmer, ABB, IBS, Kemira, Valmet, Siemens, Runtech Systems,  Wolf Heilmann Gmbh, AS Drives & Services, Kühne+Vogel, and Wöllner, Ircon Solaronics, Schaefer Rolls, among many others.