GERMANY – The woodworking community is gearing up to celebrate a significant milestone: Ligna’s 50th anniversary in 2025.

Originating from the Hannover Messe during the oil crisis of 1975, Ligna emerged as the premier trade fair for the woodworking and wood processing industry under the auspices of the then Fachgemeinschaft Holzbearbeitungsmaschinen im VDMA e. V (Woodworking Machinery Association).

Ligna traces its roots back to 1950, when it debuted as the first “Woodworking Machinery Group Show” at the “German Industrial Trade Fair in Hanover,” covering 2,780 square meters. By 1975, Ligna celebrated its premiere as an independent “International Trade Fair for Machinery and Equipment for the Woodworking Industry” in Hanover, featuring 720 exhibitors occupying 60,000 square meters. Since then, Ligna has evolved into a pioneering event, recognized internationally as a heavyweight in the capital goods industry.

As Ligna approaches its 50th anniversary, the industry faces challenges such as economic difficulties, a decline in orders, cost pressures, and workforce shortages. Despite these challenges, Ligna remains a steadfast anchor, driving innovation and progress within the industry.

According to the organizers, Deutsche Messe AG in Hanover, and VDMA Holzbearbeitungsmaschinen e. V. in Frankfurt, Ligna embodies the technological innovative strength of the industry and a strong sense of community spirit. The trade fair continues to evolve, navigating through crises and shaping the future of the industry.

Stephanie Wagner, Head of Ligna at Deutsche Messe AG, highlights the unique spirit of the trade fair, bringing together industry topics and fostering innovation. Dr. Bernhard Dirr, Managing Director of VDMA Woodworking Machinery, emphasizes the critical role of Ligna in the success of German manufacturers, serving as a vital milestone in the innovation calendar.