PSI Kick-off on 7 January – Most Important Facts

PSI 2026 will start in just two weeks, on Wednesday, 7 January. Until 9 January 2026, PSI 2026 – Europe’s leading trade show for promotional products, incentives and merchandising – will once again open its doors at the Düsseldorf exhibition centre. Highlights include a world record attempt, PSI Night and much more. More than 600 exhibitors as well as over 11,000 trade visitors from the European PSI network are expected to attend. The trade show will once more live up to its reputation as a showcase for current trends and innovations, as well as a central meeting point for the industry, setting new standards in 2026.

At the very start of the year, it’s all about networking, exploring new product launches and securing an edge in knowledge. This year’s event stands out for another reason: For the first time, the fair will kick off on a Wednesday. This new schedule invites participants to connect with the community and engage in personal exchanges right at the beginning of the week.

A major highlight is the ambitious world record attempt, “Most varieties of brands in a promotional merchandise display”. The goal is to showcase at least 250 different brands on a central exhibition area in Hall 11. All PSI members are invited to contribute a branded promotional product – whether it’s a rare collector’s piece, an everyday article, or a unique, exclusive item. The grand counting will take place on Friday at 3 p.m. This campaign impressively demonstrates the diversity of brands, the innovative strength and the sense of community within the industry.

The promotional products industry will also be given valuable support through a high-quality workshop and conference programme. The focus will be on topics that go beyond day-to-day business – such as artificial intelligence, human resources and sales. Workshops, personal consultations and innovative formats will provide practical access to the latest trends. An on-site translation service will be available to ensure all participants can follow the programme. A special feature: Participation is free of charge for all PSI members, though early registration via the ticket shop is recommended – the ticket is already included in the membership package.

With a multitude of specialised exhibitor areas, PSI 2026 will address key current issues and innovative developments in the industry. The Textile Village, Finishing Special Area, Academy Expo and Trend Show will provide inspiring insights into the diversity of tactile advertising.

One thing is clear: Anyone wishing to help shape the future of the promotional products industry and take away new impulses will find PSI in Düsseldorf to be the ideal platform – for exchange, innovation and collaborative growth.

Special Events at PSI 2026

Wednesday, 7 January 2026, 10:00 a.m.: Opening Keynote with Prof. Dr. Stephan A. Jansen, “Artificial Intelligence: Beyond Hype and Hysteria. What remains for ss – as an industry & as humans – and how it can become better!”

Wednesday, 7 January 2026, 4:30 p.m.: International Reception, Hall 11/PSI Membership Stand and International Lounge

Wednesday, 7 January 2026, 5:00 p.m.: Reception of GWW Young Professionals and PSI at the “The Hap” stand (Hall 10, Stand L09) – Networking and exchange for young entrepreneurs in the sector

Thursday, 8 January 2026, 7:00 p.m.: PSI Night with dinner buffet, award ceremony for PSI members, and the PSI Party from 10:00 p.m. at the Nachtresidenz (Bahnstraße 13, Düsseldorf)

Friday, 9 January 2026, 11:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.: World record attempt “Most varieties of brands in a promotional merchandise display” in Hall 11