LIGNA: It is the Latin word for wood or woody tissue.
Seems fitting that the largest technology show in the world for the wood industry carries that handle. One word says it all. Every technology and equipment company in the world that is a player will be in Hannover, Germany May 26-30, 2025.
In our last few columns, we have shared our journey in organizing a trip for WMCO members. At last, we are now there and have an affordable package organized and available. No other Canadian association or organization representing you - the manufacturers - has organized a trip to LIGNA 2025. This is what our members have asked for, it is affordable and promises to be of high value.
It has been a journey organizing this mission. One of the snags I will share is that we initially wanted to have a capacity for 35-40 people. We sourced many hotel options, and we were about to pre-book the hotels with a deposit that was going to cost WMCO upwards of $30k before any seats were sold. Since this was WMCO’s first time at this rodeo, the WMCO board of directors decided to reduce the risk and send a smaller more intimate group of 15 companies for the first LIGNA trip, with possible room to add five more pending demand.
We are excited to announce our exclusive LIGNA 2025 tour, offering WMCO members unparalleled access to the world’s largest woodworking trade show. This comprehensive six-night package is an experience that will expose you to global innovations, and deepen your industry insights and expand your network.
Thanks to our exceptional partners Blum and Woodworking Canada.
So, as of this writing, we just sent out the announcement and already had our first two seats sold, leaving 13 spots left. By the time this goes to print, it is highly likely it is sold out. If you are interested, contact WMCO and make it known in case there is a spot that opens up, as we gather interest for LIGNA 2027.
LIGNA is the biggest technology show our industry has to offer. “More than 80,000 professional visitors from the woodworking and wood processing sectors come to LIGNA, the world’s leading trade fair for woodworking and wood processing plant, machinery and tools, from all over the world to discover innovative machinery, plant and technology from across the entire wood industry. Global market leaders welcome this opportunity to stage live demonstrations of their plant and machinery in operation.” (About LIGNA)
Show themes for LIGNA 2025 include:
Tools and Machinery for Custom and Mass Production
Wood Based Panel Production
Machine Components and Automation Technology
Surface Technology
Machinery for Forestry, Roundwood, and Sawn timber production
Energy from Wood
Sawmill Technology
UPDATE
While at LIGNA, members will get access to the latest trends, groundbreaking products, and networking opportunities with global leaders. But what sets this tour apart is the three days and two nights of accommodation, meals, and tours provided by Blum, reducing your costs and adding tremendous value to your trip. Additionally, Woodworking Canada will be providing access to the tradeshow!
ITINERARY
LIGNA Tour Itinerary Highlights:
May 24: Depart from Toronto to Munich.
May 25: Arrival in Munich, where Blum will pick us up and take us to Bregenz, Austria for a relaxing evening and dinner, with all accommodations and meals fully covered by Blum.
May 26: A full day at the Blum Factory in Hochst, with facility tours, transportation, and dinner, all courtesy of Blum.
May 27: Shuttle to Hannover, where WMCO members will stay at the Premier Inn Hannover City University (close to downtown, and just nine km from the fairground), featuring modern amenities like free WiFi, breakfast, and air conditioning.
May 28-30: Three full days at LIGNA in Hannover, exploring cutting-edge innovations in the woodworking industry.
May 31: Travel back to Toronto. Departing via coach to Hannover Airport and return flight to Toronto.
Total Estimated Cost
Payment to WMCO: $2,500: this covers six nights accommodations, meals while with Blum, shuttle to Hanover from Bregens, Austria, and passes to the LIGNA show.
Additional cost to you: Flight to Munich, returning flight from Hannover, transportation to show from hotel, transportation to Hannover airport for return flight, insurance, meals, while at LIGNA etc., approx. $2,700 (could be higher or lower pending individual choices).
NOTE: Several hospitality booths at the show will offer food and beverages.
Total Estimated Cost Per Person: (including flights, insurance, meals, etc.): $5,200
Visit WMCO’s LIGNA page for more details.
CALL FOR INTEREST
With much of the leg work being done for you, why wouldn’t you come with WMCO and Woodworking Canada to visit Blum and LIGNA May 24-31 2025? Indicate your interest now to bdewitt@wmco.ca
If you are not engaged with WMCO, you really must start asking why?
You can learn more about the WMCO cluster here: www.wmco.ca
