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The IMEX Talking Point: Design Matters

In 2026–2027, we’re making Design Matters our Talking Point. Because good design isn’t just good business—it’s how things work, feel and change us. From the buildings that host us to the experiences that move us, design shapes our world in every detail.

Select the play button on the video to hear about our new Talking Point, Design Matters.

Design is the ultimate differentiator. When attention is scarce and expectations are high, it’s design—visual, emotional, architectural, experiential—that helps organizations, brands and events stand out and be remembered.


The World Economic Forum predicts that creative thinking and curiosity will be among the most-in-demand skills by 2030—skills that design naturally fosters. And Frankfurt has been named World Design Capital for 2026. So, we’re inviting the global events industry to embrace design as a business superpower. Because it matters.

"Sameness doesn’t serve anyone. Not attendees looking for meaningful experiences. Not exhibitors trying to stand out. And not an industry built on the belief that live events create something vital and visceral that digital channels can’t replace. 

Design matters because it’s how we honor the people in the room. It’s how we turn intention into experience. And it’s how we make work that’s remembered."

Carina Bauer, CEO, IMEX Group 

Read more about Design Matters in an interview with IMEX CEO, Carina Bauer.

Read now
CEO of IMEX, Carina Bauer, stands looking beyond the camera smiling. She's wearing a checkered dress

200+ education sessions

Covering themes:

  1. Advanced event logistics
  2. Designing for human needs
  3. Design matters
  4. Experiential event design
  5. Health and well-being
  6. Impact
  7. Leadership and culture
  8. Marketing and engagement
  9. Regenerative design
  10. Tech-enabled futures
  11. Trends and research
2026 education tracks
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