Preparations for Kind + Jugend 2026, taking place on 15-17 September in Cologne, are well underway. The international trade fair for baby and toddler products unites manufacturers, brands and retailers from around the world, creating a platform for business, networking and showcasing the latest products and developments.
This year’s key theme, ‘Growing with AI – New opportunities for the baby & toddler products industry’, puts the spotlight on the opportunities and responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the sector. Commenting is Jörg Schmale, director of Kind + Jugend.
“Kind + Jugend is a key fixture on the international trade fair calendar for the baby and toddler products industry. It brings supply and demand together and puts innovations and trends on the radar early. Strong participation from leading companies and exhibition space booked well in advance speaks to Kind + Jugend’s continued relevance in the global market – and why meeting face to face and experiencing products in person still matter.”
A meeting point for the global industry
Spanning seven theme worlds, Kind + Jugend offers the full breadth of high-quality baby and toddler products in one place. With additional formats and special areas such as the Trend Space, Innovation Award, and New Product Trail, the show highlights the latest trends and developments in the industry.
Around 800 exhibitors from 50 countries are expected at the upcoming show, with over 80% of space already booked. Confirmed exhibitors include 4Kraft, Artsana, AXKID, Baby Trend, BabyBjörn, Britax Römer, CTP Innovations, CYBEX, Delta Children, Done by Deer, FOPPA PEDRETTI, Hartan, hauck, Ideo, Julius Zöllner, Kids2, Kika Group, Lässig, Little Dutch, Nûby, Joie/Nuna, Peg Perego, Roba Baumann, Skip Hop, Smits Assen, Thule, Träumeland and UPPAbaby.
Innovation Award
A key part of the trade fair is its Innovation Award, which has now begun accepting submissions. Registered exhibitors have until 27 June 2026 to submit their new products via the Kind + Jugend website.
The Innovation Award is a well-established industry accolade held in high regard by trade professionals and retailers, and is considered an important indicator of forward-looking product developments.
An independent international jury evaluates the entries and presents awards in seven categories – Moving & Travelling, Furniture & Facility, Home Textiles & Decoration, Maternity & Kids Fashion, Toys & Education, Safety & Monitoring, and Mom & Kids Care. The competition also features the Midwives’ Choice Award, selected by a jury of midwives in partnership with hebammen-testen.de.
New Product Trail
The New Product Trail, meanwhile, gives exhibitors an additional opportunity to increase the visibility of their key new products beyond their stand. This dedicated area brings together selected products, giving trade visitors a concise overview of current developments.
Positioned centrally as a prominent secondary placement, the format is one of the most popular areas of the show, creating additional touchpoints for exhibitors while also increasing the international visibility of their new products.
For further information on Kind + Jugend 2026, please click here.