How lighting manufacturers, architects and designers connect today

This year, we were also at the Light + Building fair in Frankfurt, one of the world’s most important events in the field of lighting and technical lighting. People go to such places not only to present products, but also to meet architects, designers, and manufacturers from all over the world. For us, as a manufacturer of custom lighting, it is an opportunity to see where the industry is going, what projects are being done, and where new cooperation opportunities are opening up. Fairs like this always confirm one thing: technology is moving forward, trends are changing, but the need for quality, handmade, and customized lighting remains the same.

Lighting trade shows are still important, even though almost everything can be seen online these days. In an industry like custom lighting , where materials, finishes, dimensions, and details are involved, the physical encounter still carries a lot of weight. The reason is not just sales, but trust, collaboration, and inspiration, and these are still easiest to build in person.

Trade fairs are a place where quality can be seen live

When it comes to custom lighting, photos often don’t tell the whole story. Only when a designer or architect sees a lamp in person can they assess:

• What does the surface of metal or glass look like?

• how warm or cold the light is

• What is the sense of proportion in space?

• how well the product is actually made

That’s why fairs like Frankfurt, Milan or Paris still make sense.
It is one of the rare places where you can see dozens of manufacturers in one day and compare them live .

This is especially important for custom lighting manufacturers because such projects are often custom-made, and then the client wants to know who they are working with.

Today, collaborations most often start online.

The most common connection channels are:

• LinkedIn
• Instagram and Pinterest
• websites with project references
• direct inquiries via e-mail
• recommendations from architects and designers

With custom lighting, the manufacturer must have:

• good project photos
• clearly explained custom-made options
• technical drawings or BIM models
• fast communication

Today, designers often first find a manufacturer online, and only later meet in person, at a fair or on a project.

Today’s fairs are no longer just about sales, but also about networking.

20–30 years ago, fairs were a place where deals were made.
Today, they are more of  a place where:

• meet people from the profession
• Future projects are being discussed
• follow trends
• confirms the brand’s reputation

This is especially important for custom lighting, because such products are not purchased impulsively.
Collaboration often lasts for months, sometimes years, and that is why it is important to have a sense of security that the manufacturer will be able to deliver what it promises.

That’s why fairs won’t disappear for a long time, their role has just changed.
They’re no longer the only way to connect, but they’re still the fastest way to see who’s serious in the industry .