The 70^th edition of the world’s best-known international pop extravaganza was organised by the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), together with the host broadcaster, which this year was Austria’s Österreichischer Rundfunk (ORF).

A stunning production lighting design, featuring nearly 550 Robe luminaires, was created by Tim Routledge and his team, working on their third ESC event, and collaborating closely with set, video and production designer Florian Wieder to present a vibrant, flexible and visually impactful environment.

This had to work for the needs and imagination of all 35 delegations, for audiences catching the excitement first-hand right there in the Stadthalle, and for the millions from around the world tuning in on various live streamed and broadcasted channels to experience the event unfolding.

Prominent on the lighting rig were 190 of Robe’s just-launched GigaPointe laser-source multifunctional moving light, 98 WTF!s – IP rated LED strobe-wash-blinder fixtures – and 25 Robe HolyPATT vintage-style LED ‘scenic’ luminaires.

In addition to these, Tim’s general lighting rig included 182 Robe SVB1 multisource LED wash beams, which he also used on last year’s event in Basel, Switzerland, and have since become a firm favourite.

He also chose 64 Robe iFORTES and iFORTE LTXs – fitted with the HCF (High Colour Fidelity) engines – for all the key lighting and specials on the main stage and in the Green Room, this year located in the arena opposite the stage along the other ‘short-end’ side of the venue.

The impressive architecture of the performance space was based on curves, spheres and understated elegance juxtaposed with elements of fun and quirkiness – in the true spirit of Eurovision. It offered a technically smart universe of possibilities for all performing there.

A large, sweeping ‘signature’ passerelle feature with video floor started at ground level stage left and looped around the middle of the room in front of the stage, curving upwards at stage right in a giant rollercoaster-style loop, snaking around to finish high up in the roof stage left.

A portrait-oriented central LED screen curved seamlessly from above into the stage floor below and extended into a central thrust that traversed the arena floor, splitting into a double staircase at the other side, ascending to the Green Room.

All of this brought a beautiful flow and harmony to the scene for lighting and playback video, which seamlessly combined with the other technical disciplines and worked brilliantly as a piece of televisual art.

The central screen was framed either side by seven columns of moving lights, bringing an epic and breathtaking cinematic feel to the entire space and giving clear sight lines from all around the arena.

Tim’s highly talented team included his associate lighting designers Morgan Evans and James Scott; moving light programmers Alex Mildenhall and Martin Higgins; key light programmer Marc Nicholson; overnight programmers Olly Martin and Manfred Nikitzer; follow spot caller Louisa Smurthwaite and playback video producer Sam Lisher and team. His gaffer and crew chief was Keith Duncan.

All lighting equipment for the event was supplied by rental company Neg Earth out of the UK, with whom Tim also worked on last year’s event and on his first ESC as lighting designer in Liverpool, UK, in 2023.

Tim was delighted to be able to use GigaPointes on this show and they became “headline fixtures” of the show.

The product was just launched at ISE in February and powered by a 350W white phosphor laser source engine, it is a hugely anticipated multifunctional effects fixture, and it was a real moment to have so many of them used on such a high-profile event, following a demo at the end of 2025.

In Vienna, they were positioned all around the space.

They were prominent along the top of the front sections of the passerelle and underslung below its elevated sections upstage. They were rigged around the central semi-circular trusses in the roof, right at the heart of the rig, and were on all four sides of the main stage at floor level.

GigaPointes were used extensively throughout all performances, especially for gobo and beam looks, with the SpectraBeam effect utilised a couple of times to create unique high-impact effects, most notably for San Marino, which comprised rainbow focused looks.

They also featured prominently in the flourishing ‘stage-ready’ sequence that cut in just after the postcard video sequence – in the upcoming country’s flag colours – for each contestant’s intro, accompanied by an orchestral stinger.

Morgan Evans commented, “They were excellent workhorses – we all loved them! Nice and bright, they worked hard, reliably and extremely well throughout the event in these multiple different positions. A highly versatile multi-use product.”

Tim echoed these comments, adding, “GigaPointes provided us with an aesthetic backbone,” revealing that he was so pleased with their performance that he’s specified them for Take That’s summer 2026 “Circus” stadium tour.

The 98 Robe WTF!s were the main strobe unit on the lighting design, deployed on the roof trusses running the length of the room either side, and on the large central ‘crown’ semi-circular trusses – the innermost ring – above the stage, alternated with GigaPointes and other fixtures.

Tim already had some experience of using a much smaller quantity of WTF!s on popular UK rapper Dave’s most recent tour, so he knew their potential and was very happy to have them on ESC.

“I love their directionality, and we fully used all the sets of LED chips and the zoning for various effects,” he explained, adding that they appreciated being able to pan and tilt the fixtures, which, together with the zoom, proved extremely handy at times for reducing glare into the cameras.

Conversely, they utilised zoom and LED zoning to create cool colour temperature effects, and the ones along the audience trusses helped with washing the arena.

“Lots of options for TV with these,” noted Tim, who has also spec’d these for another upcoming tour.

Eurovision is one of the most-watched/highest-rated live music broadcast shows in the world, and as always with any camera-based show, key lighting is paramount!

Robe’s iFORTE with its high CRI and excellent quality of light has been a white light go-to for Tim since the product was launched, and here they were rigged strategically in all the main key lighting positions for the main stage and Green Room.

iFORTES were positioned all around the arena on the periphery trusses and the two outer ring trusses above the stage – their power was ideal for the long throws from these positions.

Twelve of the 64 x iFORTES were paired with different remote follow systems, including three Robe RoboSpots.

These iFORTES were used for all the main stage key lighting and were critical to every shot, “They are one of the best – I absolutely would not be without iFORTES on a show like this,” he confirmed.

Eurovision is all about making a diverse range of stars from many cultures shimmer with luminance and magic as they deliver their songs, and he used Robe’s SVB1 fixture on the 2025 ESC event in Basel, Switzerland, and really loved them.

So much so that they were included on the main rig for this year – and in the meantime, Neg Earth had also made a substantial investment in SVB1 luminaires that was delivered by Robe UK.

The fixtures were spread out around three of the four large circular roof trusses and helped emphasise the structure. They created the base looks for a host of versatile twinkling kinetic effects, which could be bold or subtle depending on the artist.

The Green Room design stood out this year for its retro, cosy, classic Viennese-style coffee house concept, and the 25 x HolyPATTS were beyond the perfect movie prop for framing this, providing a highly stylised spherical ‘tungsten’ glow, visible in every wide and medium-wide shot.

The Vienna Radio Symphony Orchestra was positioned in the Green Room for the grand finale, and they were also dressed with HolyPATTS behind their risers.

Tim and the team applied the highly accurate tungsten emulation with style and panache to bring a highly theatrical feel to the space.

One of the major technical and creative challenges this year was the decision by ORF to shoot the shows – which also included two televised semi-finals to narrow down the field to the 25 finalists – on large chip film cameras, an ESC event first.

For Tim and the lighting department, this meant that more depth, definition and detail was visible, so they had considerably more latitude to play with lighting adjustments and fine-tuning affecting how elements like strobes and pyro would look on camera – harder, softer, etc. “It enabled us to add more texture and finesse to every performance,” he stated, and this really showed on the final broadcast.

Linked to this, the LiveEdit camera software used to cut the broadcast mix could also pre-select different colour LUTs that would run on all cameras for the different artists, so more stylised lighting looks and treatments could be developed and optimised.

Tim described this process as “very satisfying, as it effectively gave us more chance to paint with light,” which also made perfect key lighting – and the role of those iFORTES – even more critical!

Eurovision 2026 was presented by Victoria Swarovski and Michael Ostrowski, plus Green Room host Emily Busvine and the winner was Bulgaria, whose DARA gave a stonking performance of her catchy Balkans banger “Bangaranga”, heading off Israel’s Noam Bettan, who came second with “Michelle” and Romania’s third-placed Alexandra Căpitănescu with her song, “Choke Me”.

Photo by ORF Cloud.

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When it comes to creating unforgettable immersive experiences, The Lost Estate is at the forefront of transporting audiences into lost worlds of magical music and immersive dining. Past productions include Paradise Under the Stars, which took audiences to 1950s Cuba; 58th Street, immersing guests in 1930s New York; and The Great Christmas Feast, inviting audiences into the home of Charles Dickens on Christmas Eve, 1843.

Their brand‑new experience now transports audiences to 1890s Paris, inside the legendary night‑club Le Chat Noir, a lost world of glittering cabaret performance, bohemian pleasures, vintage cuisine and live music. To bring CHAT NOIR! to life, writer and director Will Kunhardt approached lighting designer Mike Gunning to shape the visual language of the show. Having worked with The Lost Estate for many years, White Light (WL) was once again proud to supply the lighting rig for this extraordinary production.

From the earliest conversations, lighting was treated not as spectacle, but as a vital storytelling tool. “When Will Kunhardt approached me with the premise of the show, it felt like something that could be clearly and visually expressed,” says Mike. “There was a real opportunity to collaborate and create something unique.”

The creative vision was twofold: to root the audience firmly in the time and place of 19th‑century Paris, while also embracing the variety and energy of cabaret performance unfolding throughout the space. “I wanted the light to feel soft, almost like looking at an old photograph,” he explains, ensuring the environment felt authentic, intimate and lived‑in.

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In the day, Arnot Hill Park is a celebration of history, art and nature. Curious art trails guide visitors through wood carvings and murals, and the prominent Grade II listed Arnot Hill House overlooks the park’s lake and relaxing ornamental gardens. With no entrance fee, the public park is there for the enjoyment of the local residents and hosts family-friendly events, including the annual Arnold Carnival and Gedling Play Day.

To improve safety in the park at night, William Sugg & Co. was commissioned to supply a total of 36 impressive 30-inch Westminster lanterns, replicating the style of the existing lanterns which were originally supplied by William Sugg & Co. over 20 years before, along with the George IV columns. These lanterns are strategically positioned throughout Arnot Hill Park to achieve comprehensive coverage. The installation encompasses the main entrance road that leads into the car park, all the principal walkway areas weaving through the park, and key locations around the central buildings, which include council offices and leisure facilities. This extensive placement ensures that both key routes and communal spaces are safely lit, creating a welcoming environment for all visitors after dark.

“We’re proud to support local communities in creating beautiful and safer public spaces that everyone can enjoy. Our team are incredibly dedicated to their craft and fostering local pride in the areas where our projects are located. Through our collaboration with the Community Safety Partnership, we were able to boost a cherished green space in the area,” comments Neil Stanton, Managing Director of William Sugg & Co.

The project brief required William Sugg & Co. to respect the park’s heritage whilst introducing the latest sustainable LED technology. In response, the company undertook the replacement of the existing William Sugg & Co. Lanterns and recycled the original copper lanterns, an approach that aligns with Gedling Borough’s commitment to sustainability and the circular economy.

The intervention aimed to improve lighting levels by 25 percent, and to achieve this, William Sugg & Co. provided every new copper lantern with modern LED gear trays. All lanterns were fitted with modern COB (Chip-on-Board) LED area lens technology. This advanced lighting solution allowed light to be lensed and projected in a controlled, circular pattern, focusing illumination downwards onto the park’s paths and open spaces. The result enhanced visibility for park visitors while minimising light pollution in the surrounding environment. The use of copper for the lanterns provides a durable, long-lasting finish that further supports local sustainability goals, ensuring that the lighting solutions will stand the test of time and weather conditions.

The full improvements implemented in Arnot Hill Park, including the installation of heritage-inspired, energy-efficient lighting, enhanced cycle store security and ongoing park maintenance, have delivered tangible benefits for both safety and community wellbeing. These targeted interventions have contributed to a remarkable 57% reduction in house burglaries and a 67 percent drop in vehicle crime in the surrounding area. This successful outcome demonstrates how investment in public realms can create real change for communities. Arnot Hill Park now stands as a strong illustration of how collaborative efforts between local authorities, specialist suppliers, and community partners can create safer, more accessible public spaces that also enhance character and consider the environment.

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Over the six-day event, a total of 144,767 visitors from 143 countries travelled to Frankfurt. The largest groups of international visitors came from China, the Netherlands, Italy, Switzerland, France, Austria, Belgium, the United Kingdom, Spain, and Greece. Restrictions affecting international air travel, as well as the current geopolitical situation in the Middle East with temporary disruptions at key aviation hubs, particularly in Dubai, meant that not all visitors were able to attend as planned. Nevertheless, the event once again confirmed its strong roots in Germany and across Central and Western Europe, underlining its role as an international meeting point for industry, the skilled trades, planners and architects.

“The Light + Building 2026 has once again demonstrated just how innovative and forward-looking this industry continues to be,” says Wolfgang Marzin, President and CEO of Messe Frankfurt. “At the same time, it shows how important personal encounters and direct exchange remain particularly in times like these. Light + Building fulfils its role by bringing together people from industry, the skilled trades, planning and design, creating the foundation for dialogue, cooperation and new ideas. This exchange strengthens the cohesion of the industry and provides important momentum for its continued development. The future lies in electrification.”

Light + Building 2026 concluded with very high visitor satisfaction. Overall, 95 percent of visitors said they were satisfied with their visit and had achieved their objectives, while the same proportion rated the range of exhibits positively.

Buildings – from energy consumers to active systems
In the buildings sector, Light + Building 2026 clearly demonstrated how buildings are evolving from passive energy consumers into active components of an intelligent energy system. Smart energy distribution, integrated load and charging management, and bidirectional charging are increasingly linking buildings, the grid and e-mobility, opening up new opportunities for energy efficiency and system stability. At the same time, the existing building stock moved further into focus: modular, scalable solutions are making energy modernisation easier and enabling retrofits to be implemented efficiently and cost-effectively. Digital planning and operation concepts, together with multifunctional interfaces, simplify installation and use, while secure charging infrastructure and reliable systems for critical applications are gaining in importance. In this way, the sector is driving the next stage in the development of building technology – with the aim of making buildings more integrated, flexible and future-ready.

Lighting – intelligently controlled and atmospherically staged
In the lighting sector, it became clear that lighting is increasingly evolving into a data-driven, adaptive system. Sensors, connected luminaires and AI-supported control systems enable precise, demand-based light distribution that automatically adapts to presence, daylight and specific usage scenarios. Across all application areas – from private homes and hospitality to retail, industry and urban infrastructure – connected and flexibly scalable solutions took centre stage. At the same time, light remains a key design element in interior architecture: high-quality luminaires, diverse design languages and carefully tuned light colours create atmosphere, guide perception and enhance the quality of spaces. Sustainable materials, durable components and circular product design further underline the industry’s long-term outlook. Overall, the direction is clearly towards a new generation of holistic lighting concepts that combine technological precision with emotional impact.

Design, AI and young talent set new trends

The high-quality range of events also provided impetus for the next stage of innovation. The Design Plaza in Hall 3.1 was the centre for lighting and design topics. Here, current developments in lighting design were classified, design trends were highlighted and forward-looking projects were presented. Among the guests was ‘Women in Lighting’, which promoted international exchange in the lighting industry. The electrical trade also set an example and laid the foundation for the ‘ElektroHeldinnen’ initiative, which makes women in the trade more visible and connects them in a targeted manner. The ‘Young Design’ area also attracted a great deal of attention, with selected young designers providing new impetus with innovative materials, experimental luminaires and clear conceptual approaches. In Hall 9, the AI Lounge attracted numerous visitors: The highly popular sessions provided practical examples of how artificial intelligence is taking planning, operation and business models in building technology to a new level. The new special show ‘The Living Light’ placed lighting in the context of the areas of home, education, work and communication, illustrating how light creates orientation, shapes moods and supports human interaction, concentration and motivation.

With the Power Festival, Light + Building further expanded its commitment to young talent in the electrical trade. In the Galleria between Halls 8 and 9, a vibrant meeting point was created for apprentices, skilled tradespeople, master electricians and industry representatives. The area featured a “workshop street”, hands-on challenges, occupational safety seminars, as well as talks and live content from well-known creators from the trades. The format combined exchange, practical experience and community. A charity initiative also formed part of the concept: visitors collected kilometres for a good cause on three activity bikes. Light + Building rounded up the amount and donated a total of €10,000 to the Deutsche Kinderhilfsstiftung, supporting equal educational opportunities and helping children start school with the equipment they need.

The world’s leading trade fair for lighting and building services technology will take place from 5th to 10th March 2028 in Frankfurt am Main.

Image courtesy of Messe Frankfurt GmbH/Jean-Luc Valentin.

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Under the technical leadership of Andres Sarv, Vanemuine’s head of lighting, all three of its auditoriums – The Grand Building of Theatre, The Small Building of Vanemuine and The Harbour Theatre (black box) – have benefitted from carefully considered investment in Robe lighting technology over the years, with the most recent purchases being in LED luminaires.

This has seen an additional 14 T1 Profiles, 14 T2 Profiles, 11 T11 Profiles, 8 LEDBeam 350s, 8 LedPOINTES, six iParFect 150 FQW RGBWs and four T32 Cyc Slims added to the Vanemuine lighting inventory.

All these plus other fixtures are now at the disposal of Vanemuine’s own lighting department for all the shows and touring productions that they produce, as well as for the incoming and guest LDs who are visiting with numerous national and international shows.

Many of the new Robe fixtures were used on the acclaimed 2025 production of La bohème, lit by Swedish lighting designer Palle Palmé.

While many of the new lights will reside in The Grand Building, servicing the largest and most complex productions, they can be moved around as and where needed between the three auditoriums – and they can also go on the road with Vanemuine’s various touring shows.

In The Grand Building, two RoboSpot systems are also new – supplied as with all the LED fixtures by Robe’s Tallinn-based distributor E&T Valgus – but these are separate from the green turn investment. However, they can be used with many of the Robe fixtures, giving greater flexibility and enabling better follow spot angles to do the job.

Vanemuine has been using Robe fixtures for at least the last 14 years, and the recent arrivals also prompted them to replace some of the older fixtures like MMX Spots and 600E Spots, which were still working … but have now been replaced in all the houses, giving a much more powerful, energy-efficient and contemporary set of creative options.

In some cases, the older Robe moving lights – like LEDWash 1200s – are still in active service and used for powerful back light or other effects. Andres comments that this reliability and longevity are a great asset and one of several features that keep them returning to the brand for moving lights and intelligent LED fixtures.

The Small Building already had T1s in the house rig, but the Harbour Theatre’s older Robe DLX Spots – in residence since 2013 – were replaced with some of the new batch, joining the existing Robe LEDWash 600s in there, together with a host of conventional lights.

The new LedPOINTES, while more of a multipurpose than a purely theatrical fixture, will mainly stay in The Grand Building as they are ideal for musicals, and were “very well priced,” commented Andres.

He commented that the optics of the LEDBeam 350 are “great” for theatre, and naturally, they are delighted to now have the additional power of the T2s in the house.

Andres believes that Robe’s T-Series luminaires are excellent for any performance space: “The breadth of the T-Series ranges is fantastic, there is a fixture to cover multiple needs, and Robe can provide a very consistent solution in terms of light quality and colour management.”

He is also very enthused by the potential of the T32 Cyc Slims to provide rich, smooth and even coverage for cycs and set pieces, and the four units will replace 12 heavy lights that were previously used for this task.

Back in 2001, Andres recalls, Palle had been the first visiting LD to use new moving lights that had just been installed in The Grand Building, and in 2025, he was delighted to engage in another Vanemuine first in using the Robe T2 Profiles in the same venue.

Andres works alongside a lighting crew of 10 at Vanemuine across all three venues. While they primarily present theatrical shows and some orchestral concerts, the pace and turnarounds are very much rock ‘n’ roll in style and speed.

The house lighting rigs need to be as dynamic and flexible as possible, and Robe products are currently adding reliable and creative production value, together with the all-important “outstanding” local support from E&T Valgus.

Estonian National Theatre Vanemuine was founded in 1870 and is internationally famous and renowned for its action-packed programme of spectacular and eye-popping productions that embrace drama, opera, ballet, large-scale musicals, and orchestral concerts.

Vanemuine is known for its high-quality productions and has been recognised with numerous awards and accolades throughout its history.

In 2026, Vanemuine and Eesti Kontsert will bring Richard Wagner’s tetralogy Der Ring des Nibelungen to the Saaremaa Opera Festival, beginning with Part I, Das Rheingold. In the following years, all four operas of the Ring Cycle will be presented, directed by Dutch opera director and set designer Michiel Dijkema. 

Photo credit: Maris Savik.

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Dave’s connection with White Light began even before his full‑time start in 1989. His earliest memories take him back to Filmer Road, spending a summer coiling cables in “The Cage”. His first weeks on staff involved preparing colour for PAR64 semaphore changers and repainting brand‑new Rainbow scrollers for M. Butterfly, a task that had to be repeated when the colour choice changed. These moments captured the improvisational, collaborative spirit of WL at the time.

Although the role initially began as a temporary stop while he considered his future, Dave quickly found himself part of a close and highly motivated team. The people, the energy and the opportunity for continuous learning kept him at WL for more than three decades. He recalls: “In 1989, WL had fewer than 30 employees, embodying a work‑hard, play‑hard environment that grew more sophisticated as WL and the wider industry matured. Yet the ethos that made WL unique has remained intact thanks to long‑standing team members who helped carry that spirit forward.”

As the industry and company evolved, so did Dave’s responsibilities. Over time he moved from hands‑on engineering to strategic leadership, becoming as comfortable with spreadsheets as with screwdrivers, even if a pair of safety boots always stayed under his desk. His career path was shaped partly by opportunity and partly by curiosity; asking questions often led him to take on new responsibilities and strengthen WL’s technical framework. One of the defining chapters of his career came with the launch of The Moving Light Company, where he played a pivotal role in developing a new division during a period of rapid technological change. Later, he took on wider stewardship as a Company Director and as part of the 2007 Management Buyout team, transitions he describes as natural progressions that aligned with the business’s growth.

Across his tenure, Dave witnessed significant technological shifts, from the introduction of DMX to the adoption of scrollers, automated fixtures and LED sources. He recalls building countless “bodge boxes” during the early transition from analogue to digital systems, ensuring designers and technicians could embrace emerging technologies with confidence. Through these changes, he emphasised that innovation was not only about the latest equipment but also about supporting designers’ creative visions and integrating new tools into workflows in reliable, user‑focused ways.

He comments: “WL’s ability to adapt to new technologies has often depended on understanding the user perspective, collaborating with manufacturers and refining operations behind the scenes.” Dave highlights battery‑powered fixtures as an example; while they transformed event delivery, their effective use required robust processes for returning, charging and testing equipment. For him, backstage reliability is just as critical as on‑site performance, and WL’s commitment to operational excellence has been central to its reputation.

Reflecting on the many productions and milestones he contributed to, Dave finds it difficult to single out specific shows, noting instead that WL’s achievements are always the result of a collective effort. His greatest pride lies in the development of the people around him, watching colleagues grow in ability and confidence, both within and beyond the company. A keen mentor, he reminds younger technicians that “every day is a school day”, encouraging them to ask questions, stay curious and learn from challenges as much as successes.

As he considers his legacy, Dave returns to the guiding principles set out by WL founder John Simpson. Dave comments: “John believed in giving customers choice and doing the job well. As the company expanded, these principles were codified in WL’s Core Values and further reflected in the company’s B‑Corp recognition in 2023, which acknowledges its broader commitment to people and planet.” Dave believes this ethos remains integral to the future of WL and will continue to guide the next generation of technicians and leaders.

Craig Bennett, WL General Manager comments: “As Dave steps into retirement, he leaves behind a company strengthened by his vision, technical expertise and collaborative leadership. His influence can be seen in the teams he developed, the systems he improved and the culture he helped build. White Light extends its deepest thanks to Dave for his outstanding contribution and wishes him every success in the next chapter.”

Photo courtesy of White Light.

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Light + Building is firmly established in the international market for lighting and building services technology. Seventy-five per cent of exhibitors come from outside Germany. In addition to Germany, companies from China, Italy, Türkiye, Poland, Spain, the Netherlands, France, Austria and the United Kingdom are particularly well represented. Around 60 per cent of companies operate in the lighting segment, and around 40 per cent are in connected building services technology. The trade fair therefore reflects the growing integration of energy, digitalisation and security, with a focus on building efficiency tailored to individual usage requirements.

“Light + Building 2026 is a realistic reflection of the market, with all its challenges and technological strengths,” says Wolfgang Marzin, President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Messe Frankfurt. “The fact that around 2,000 exhibitors have made a conscious decision to exhibit in Frankfurt sends a strong signal. In a phase of profound transformation, orientation becomes a decisive added value. Light + Building enables comparability, facilitates dialogue and provides a sound basis for decision-making.”

The motto of Light + Building 2026 is “Be Electrified – Electrifying Places. Illuminating Spaces.” From this, three top themes have emerged, developed jointly with industry representatives, exhibitors and partners. They reflect the issues that are driving the industry now and will continue to do so in the future and form the conceptual framework for the leading trade fair. “Sustainable Transformation” stands for the electrification, decarbonisation and the sustainable modernisation of existing buildings. “Smart Connectivity” focuses on the intelligent networking of systems, trades and data as the basis for efficiency and control. “Living Light” places the quality of light at the centre as an integral component of architecture, workplaces and urban spaces. The three top themes provide the overarching framework for the event programme.

From the industry’s perspective, electrification and digital integration are decisive levers for Germany’s industrial competitiveness. “The energy and building transition can be a major engine for growth,” says Wolfgang Weber, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the German Electro and Digital Industry Association (ZVEI). “Electrifying, digitalising, connecting and automating – these megatrends contain enormous efficiency potential for the building sector. The technologies are already in place. The companies of the German electrical and digital industry offer a wide range of innovative applications and solutions. For these to be deployed on a broad scale, companies and property owners alike need planning and investment security as well as competitive electricity prices.”

A key platform for this debate is the ZVEI Technology Forum. It will be opened on 8th March 2026 at 9.30 a.m. by the Hessian Minister for Economic Affairs, Energy, Transport, Housing and Rural Areas, Kaweh Mansoori, together with Wolfgang Marzin, and will serve on all six days of the fair as a platform for professional exchange between industry, skilled trades, planners and policymakers.

The electrical trades also see major economic opportunities in the current transformation. Alexander Neuhäuser, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Federation of the German Electrical and Information Technology Installation Trades (ZVEH), emphasises: “The energy transition is an economic opportunity. Electrical engineering is a central field of action within the energy transition. With building systems integration and energy management, we are facing major tasks. We are driving digital networking forward and demonstrating concrete applications for artificial intelligence, process digitalisation and data spaces as infrastructure building blocks of the future. The sector must pick up speed. This applies to the refurbishment of infrastructure as well as to the modernisation of our processes.” The technological transformation can be experienced directly in the ZVEH E-House. The walk-in model demonstrates integrated building technology – from photovoltaics and heat pumps to intelligent control systems working together. On the Agora, the ZVEH hot-air balloon will set a highly visible sign for the electrical trades as key drivers of the energy transition and as a stabilising factor in the transformation process.

The Living Light – light as a living part of everyday life
With “The Living Light”, Light + Building 2026 celebrates a world premiere. For the first time, a special exhibition in Hall 3.1 is comprehensively dedicated to the question of how light shapes living spaces and enhances the quality of experience. The concept was developed by the Berlin-based lighting design studio Lichtvision Design under the direction of Carla Wilkins. In four areas “Home”, “Education”, “Workplace” and “Communication”, it will be demonstrated how light creates orientation, supports productivity and generates atmosphere. Interactive elements and curated lighting effects allow visitors to experience the impact first-hand. Guided tours take place daily at 11.00 a.m. and 2.30 p.m.

Design inspiration
Frankfurt RheinMain is World Design Capital 2026. As a company with strong roots in the city and international appeal, Messe Frankfurt is participating in selected projects during the festival year, for example in the immersive 270° production “Frankfurt: City of WOW!”. Design also plays a central role at Light + Building. The Design Plaza in Hall 3.1 offers, as a curated forum for lectures and discussions, space for current topics from architecture, lighting and building services technology and promotes professional exchange within the international industry community. With the “Young Design” format, the trade fair specifically places young talent in the lighting sector in the spotlight. In the Young Design area in Hall 3.1, designers at the beginning of their professional careers present innovative luminaires. In an inspiring atmosphere, unique pieces are showcased that make the diversity and future of design visible. Further information on participants at: Young Design.

The global Light + Building network
Messe Frankfurt organises a total of 15 trade fairs for the lighting and building services technology sectors in growth markets across Asia as well as in Argentina, the United Arab Emirates and the United States. At the heart of the network is Light + Building in Frankfurt am Main. Further information on the Light + Building trade fairs worldwide can be found at www.light-building.com/brand.

Image courtesy of Messe Frankfurt Exhibition GmbH/Pietro Sutera.

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GILE returns from 9th – 12th June 2026 at the China Import and Export Fair Complex. At the heart of this year’s event are three segments that represent the industry’s most dynamic areas of progress. Lighting Solutions will highlight advances in adaptive, human-centric, and intelligent lighting for diverse user needs. Lighting Fixtures will showcase the latest trends in design, comfort, and decorative innovation. Lighting Technology features breakthroughs in components and smart systems that are driving efficiency, connectivity, and responsible production across the sector. Together, these categories provide visitors with a comprehensive overview of the developments shaping the future of lighting.

Commenting on the vision of the 2026 edition, Ms Lucia Wong, General Manager of Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd, stated: “With years of technological integration, expanding cross-disciplinary applications, and ongoing digital transformation, the lighting industry has reached a critical ‘last mile’ in its journey of upgrade and transformation. This shift goes beyond breakthroughs in individual technologies or innovations in design concepts, it is about aligning lighting technology with human needs and embedding it into smart, healthy applications. Lighting is transitioning from traditional functional products to system-based solutions that combine sensors, control, data, and services, forming a vital foundation for smart living and urban development.”

She added: “This year’s exhibition highlights the practical implementation of lighting applications and scenarios, focusing on industry-wide collaboration and integrated practices across the entire supply chain. From upstream component R&D to midstream and downstream system integration and end-user services, companies are presenting joint efforts and innovative solutions that show how lighting is advancing from basic utility to improving everyday life in meaningful and impactful ways.”

Lighting solutions: From sustainability to inclusivity and intelligence
Lighting is being increasingly designed to accommodate a wide range of sensory needs, particularly for people with neurodiverse traits and sensory processing differences. Human-centric lighting frameworks guide this approach, employing dynamic control of brightness and colour temperature, flicker-free LEDs, and glare reduction to improve visual comfort, cognitive performance, and overall well-being for all occupants. This commitment to inclusive, evidence-based design is reshaping how spaces are conceived and experienced.

AI-enabled lighting is another centrepiece, with adaptive, data-driven systems that use contextual and behavioural data to optimise illumination in real time. These intelligent systems not only enhance operational responsiveness but also support decarbonisation and energy efficiency targets across the built environment.

Key zones at GILE 2026 dedicated to Lighting Solutions include:

• Urban & Cultural Tourism Lighting (Area A: Halls 1.1 – 5.1): Architectural, landscape, and smart street lighting solutions that shape the night-time economy and the urban experience.

Notable brands in this category include:

Hpwinner, YD Illumination, Haoyang, Huapai, LIANGLIANG, AOGUANG, SNC Opto, ALLTOP, Betop, Dilux, Goldenlux, FYTLED, LEDLUCKY, GUGUANG, , GUANGDONG YAMING, Huadian, HUAQUAN, KAICHENG, LEPENG，Hem  Lighting, Zhongqian, Lianqiu, HOLU Construction, Plusrite, SPRING, ISHINELUX, YiFeng, Yourlite, Zhuocai, Tongbody Wisdom, DIE CASTING MAN, JINGXIANG, AGC, DAO BA, Shufeng, LUODING, Hualang, Jiading, and more.

• AI Lighting Solutions (Area B: Halls 9.2 – 10.2,10.3): AI-powered lighting applications and IoT technology for connected buildings, intelligent controls, and automated environments.

Notable brands in this category include:

CDN, Fanya, FSL, GDLED, Ground-space, INDLEDs, InSona, Ltech,PAK, SKYDANCE, Sky-Lighting, Up-shine, Yingrui, and more.

Lighting fixtures: Comfort, integration, and statement design
The lighting fixtures segment showcases the latest trends across ambient, task, accent, and decorative lighting. Ambient lighting is increasingly moving towards indirect, low-glare solutions, such as concealed linear lighting and tuneable white systems that enhance spatial comfort and support natural circadian rhythms. Task lighting is becoming more precise, with adjustable, glare-controlled luminaires engineered to deliver optimal user comfort while integrating seamlessly into furniture and architectural elements.

Furthermore, accent lighting trends are highlighting subtle architectural enhancements, making use of narrow-beam optics and high colour rendering to showcase materials and design features. Decorative lighting continues to make a strong statement by embracing sculptural forms, natural materials, and the latest in energy-efficient LED technologies.

Lighting Fixtures can be explored in the following zones:

• Commercial & Household Lighting  (Area B: Halls 9.2 – 11.2, 9.3 – 10.3,
  9.1 – 11.1): High-end light sources, smart systems, and healthy lighting designs for commercial and home environments.
• Artistic Lighting (Area B: Halls 10.1 – 11.1): The creative interface of light and art for emotional and aesthetic experiences.

Highlighted brands include:

AALIGHT, Allway, Bangyu, Baoshan, BLUEVIEW, BINAI, CGD, Erman, Faner, Four-leaf Grass, FUTLIGHT, GENERAL LIGHTING, GuangYang, GuoYing, Jinyin, Kaian, KC Lighting, Kerep, Keyun, Kinsuny, Liangjian, Linong, LIUHONG, Moorlight,Mynice, OUNEN, Pvtech, Qilang, Seity, SFUN, SHINESKY, SHINING, Shipu, Shidawei, Taiji, Tospo, UCOME, Wellmax, Xiesen, XINGUANGYUAN, Youcoin, YUMING, and more.

Artistic lighting fixtures will also be on display from brands such as ACE, Aike, APL, Babbitt, BellaCasa, BTL, CX-FEELING, D3space, DISON, ECOJASLIGHTING, Evan, Hongquan, HUALIANG, Kasanto, LUMAX, MEI LUO DI, Mingzhao, MOYA, OLIVER, SUOYOUNG LIGHTING, Tangla, Xingqite, YUNQI LIGHTING, Yuanzheng, ZAWA, Zetian, and others, demonstrating how illumination can transcend functionality to become a medium for emotional and aesthetic expression.

Lighting and AI technology: Powering progress
GILE 2026 presents the latest advancements in LED chips and packaging, light engines, and modules, as well as drivers, ICs, and smart control systems. The industry’s evolution is being driven by rapid developments in LED performance, miniaturisation, and environmentally responsible manufacturing. Intelligent drivers and integrated circuits increasingly embed connectivity, enabling automated and adaptive lighting for residential, commercial, and industrial applications.

These innovations are brought together in the following zone:

• Advanced Manufacturing – Lighting Technology & Industry Chain (Area A: Halls 2.2 – 5.2): Core technologies and innovative manufacturing, covering the full lighting supply chain.
• AI Lighting Technology (Area B: Halls 9.2 – 10.2): Showcasing cutting-edge technological solutions spanning from smart chips and sensor control to integrated cloud platforms.

Key participating brands include:

Ankom, Aucksun, BAIYUN, BillDa, BJB, Bridgelux, CHUANGLIAN, Chuangzhi, CPET, CUPOWER, DALI Alliance, DARKOO, DEKRA, Destar, DONE, DSLOL, Eaglerise, EBRIGHT, Euchips, EVERFINE,FAHOLD, Hongxinsheng, Hua chuang, Huahang, HYRITE, Inventronics, Jin Bei Lai, JINBO KECHUANG, KEGU, LCLED, Mehui, MEAN WELL, Merrytek, MINGLIAN, MOSO, Powerland, RICHMAT, Shenlizhuo, SOSEN, Sunricher, SUNPU, Tuya Information, UL Solutions, VS Lighting Solutions, WAIBERLON,Wamo, Xinke, Yuanke, ZHAGA,ZHIHE, Zhongjin Huapu, and more.

The Guangzhou International Lighting Exhibition and Guangzhou Electrical Building Technology will be held concurrently. Both shows are part of Messe Frankfurt’s Light + Building Technology fairs headed by the biennial “Light + Building” event. The next edition will be held from 8th – 13th March 2026 in Frankfurt, Germany.

Messe Frankfurt organises several trade fairs for the light and building technology sectors in Asia, including International Smart Space Exhibition, Shanghai Intelligent Building Technology, Shanghai Smart Home Technology and Parking China. The company’s lighting and building technology trade fairs also cover the markets in Argentina, India, Türkiye, the UAE and the US.

For more information on Light + Building shows worldwide, please visit http://www.brand.light-building.com. For more information regarding the lighting shows in China, please visit http://www.light.messefrankfurt.com.cn or email light@china.messefrankfurt.com.

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“We are entering the countdown to Light + Building with great energy and are delighted by the strong participation of renowned market leaders as well as new exhibitors and start-ups. The international presence and the high level of registrations despite challenging market conditions underline the relevance of the trade fair. Light + Building is the place where the industry’s key needs become visible – from the interplay of energy-efficient technology, digital connectivity and lighting in all its facets to solutions addressing high construction and energy costs, skills shortages and renovation pressures. Current challenges are addressed here while forward-looking impulses are set,” says Steffen Larbig, Director Brand Management for Light + Building.

At a glance: Exhibitors from the lighting sector

The exhibition grounds are divided into the eastern section, which is exclusively dedicated to lighting exhibitors, and the western section, where exhibitors from electrical engineering and home and building automation are also represented. Approximately 60 per cent of exhibitors are in the lighting sector and around 40 per cent in the building sector.

In the “technical lighting” segment, exhibitors present solutions for workplaces, educational facilities, industry and public spaces. The focus is on efficiency, high lighting quality and standards-compliant planning. Halls 3.0, 4.0, 4.1, 5.1 and the Forum form the centre for functional and connected lighting solutions.

Hall 3.0 features market leaders such as AEC Illuminazione, BEGA, Brumberg, Glamox, Ledvance, Molto Luce, Normagrup, RZB, SG Armaturen, Simes and Zambelis. Hall 4.0 presents solutions for urban lighting, showcasing concepts for streets, squares and public outdoor spaces that combine functionality, sustainability and design quality. Exhibitors include Benito Urban, C. & G. Carandini, Elektro-Lumen, GMR Enlights, Leipziger Leuchten, Metalogalva, Norka and Ragni. In Hall 4.1, companies such as Deko-Light, Dotlux, Lena Lighting and Radium Lampenwerk, Rutec Light present their product solutions. Hall 5.1 brings together companies including Adolf Schuch, Lichtwerk and Regiolux, Ridi Leuchten, Signify, Trilux, Waldmann and XAL. In addition, Thorn, Tridonic and Zumtobel Group Deutschland, among others, will present their latest innovations in the Forum.

Emergency, safety and specialised lighting, with a focus on safety, reliability and compliance with standards, is also located in Hall 4.1. Exhibitors include Awex Rafal Stanuch, Fischer, GSYSTEMS, Inotec, Linergy and RP-Technik.

Hall 3.1 focuses on design and lighting effects. Exhibitors present luminaires that accentuate architecture, shape spaces and create atmosphere. Design ambition and technical innovation go hand in hand. Companies represented here include 3F Filippi, Ideal Lux, Kreon, Leds C4, Lightnet, Linea Light, Lival OY, Osvaldo Matos, Prolicht, Redo Group, Serien Lighting and Wangs Alliance Corporation.

Decorative designer luminaires for private living spaces as well as for the hospitality sector are showcased in Hall 6 by companies including Elstead Lighting, F.A.N. Europe Lighting, Nordlux, Nova Luce and Zambelis.

Components for lighting technology can be found in Hall 8, including control systems and intelligent interfaces. Exhibitors such as Bender & Wirth, BJB, Casambi, Osram, TCI and Vossloh-Schwabe, among many others, present the technological foundations required for connected lighting solutions and smart building applications.

The Asia Selection in Halls 10.1, 10.2 and 10.3 rounds off the lighting offering.

Building: Exhibitors at a glance

Halls 9, 11 and 12 in the western section bundle the offering in electrical engineering, home and building automation. Solutions relating to electrical installation, charging infrastructure and energy management are the focus on levels 12.0 and 12.1. The offering is complemented by systems for decentralised energy supply as well as switchgear, cable and photovoltaic components. Exhibitors demonstrate how energy flows can be intelligently controlled and renewable energies efficiently integrated. Participants include ABB and Busch-Jaeger, Bals, Dehn, Doepke Schaltgeräte, Fränkische Rohrwerke, Gustav Hensel, Hager, Kaiser, KNX, Mennekes, Niedax, OBO Bettermann and SMA Solar.

Hall 11 showcases automation platforms, control systems and connected energy distribution on both levels. The focus here is on design-oriented electrical installations, network technology and building automation for industry. This includes solutions that create transparency, automate processes and enable buildings to adapt flexibly to different usage requirements. Market leaders such as Albrecht Jung, Beckhoff, Eaton, Esylux, Gira Giersiepen, Legrand, Phoenix, Rittal, Schneider Electric, S. Siedle & Söhne, Siemens, Wago, Weidmüller and Wöhner present their latest innovations in electrical engineering as well as home and building automation.

In Hall 9, the offering in electrical engineering and home and building automation is specifically expanded to include security technology. Integrated solutions that combine protection, comfort and efficiency are presented by exhibitors including BACnet/Tema, EnOcean, Dahua, Loy Tec, Moorgen, Thermokon and Woertz. The focus is on integrated systems that unite comfort, efficiency and protection, thus forming the basis for intelligent and secure buildings.

For more information and to plan your visit, head to www.light-building.messefrankfurt.com.

Image courtesy of Messe Frankfurt GmbH/Petra Welzel.

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TECH-X 2026 will deliver a full day of high-quality discussions and knowledge-sharing, designed to support professionals across the lighting supply chain. The conference will feature four dedicated stages, enabling delegates to tailor their day around their technical priorities:

• Connected Lighting
• Lighting Design
• Technical Updates
• Sustainability

The draft programme (subject to change) highlights a strong focus on regulation, safety, sustainability, human centric lighting and the evolving role of connected systems. Sessions will explore topics including the Building Safety Act and fire safety accountability, changes to emergency lighting standards, flicker and temporal light artefacts, remanufacturing and compliance responsibilities, and European regulation and its implications for UK lighting companies.

Across the design and standards-focused stages, attendees can expect sessions addressing lighting for human health and wellbeing, healthy homes and later-life living, designing lighting for retrofit, and integrating light with wider building performance considerations such as acoustics, air quality and daylight.

The connected lighting and sustainability content will examine whole-life carbon performance, net zero expectations, BREEAM 2026, digital product passports, and data transparency, alongside practical discussions on managing software-driven lighting systems over the life of a building.

Neil McLean, Chair of The LIA’s Technical Management group, said: “TECH‑X was established to provide a specialised forum for advancing technical expertise in the lighting industry. Releasing the draft programme allows the sector to preview the comprehensive, technical content we are developing, demonstrating our commitment to equipping members and the wider industry with knowledge-driven insights and good practice through technically-led events.”

Dan Griffiths, Technical Operations Manager at The LIA, added: “This year’s TECH-X programme reflects The LIA’s continued focus on compliance and advocacy, while also recognising the growing importance of health and wellbeing in lighting. As we continue to better understand the effects of artificial light on humans, it is becoming increasingly clear that light can play a positive and beneficial role when it is properly designed, specified, and applied. The programme brings these themes together, highlighting the need to balance technical compliance with quality, performance, and human outcomes.”

TECH-X 2026 is aimed at manufacturers, lighting designers, specifiers, consultants, engineers and contractors, and delegates are encouraged to attend with colleagues to maximise access across all four stages.

Delegate booking is now open, with member pricing at £125 + VAT and non-member pricing at £150 + VAT.

To view the draft programme and book tickets, visit:
https://www.thelia.org.uk/ems-event-booking-page.html?eventId=A030A1A2-1393-4707-9B5D29A926132D87&_fr=68ac270d

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