“Platform That Can Offer A Comprehensive Range Of Resources For The Entire Production Chain, From Machine Tools To Materials” – Sergey Irtuganov About Woodex Exhibition

An interview with Sergey Irtuganov, Woodex Exhibition Director, on what the 2025 exhibition will be like and why it will be held annually.

– Sergey, thank you for your time. We would like to inquire about the mission of Woodex. Could you please elaborate on who participates in it and who attends it?

Over the years, the global mission of our exhibition has remained consistent. It is to contribute to the development of Russia's timber industry, the introduction of high-tech, energy-efficient, and resource-saving solutions, and the transition to a cyclical economy.

Woodex showcases the most recent, cutting-edge, and pertinent solutions for businesses in the furniture and woodworking industry. It is essential for us to remain up-to-date with the latest developments in the industry and provide our audience with the information they require to make informed decisions.

For this reason, we are committed to further developing the "Furniture Components and Fittings" section. Our research indicates that 80% of visitors are furniture manufacturers seeking comprehensive solutions, including equipment and materials, in a single location.

Our visitors, who are interested in the products featured in this section, represent a variety of companies, including leading names in the furniture and woodworking industry, such as First Furniture Factory, Stylish Kitchens, BRV, Shatura, Angstrem, and many others.

It is noteworthy that 55% of our audience only attend Woodex among similar events. They come to Woodex with high purchasing budgets. According to the visitor survey, in 2023, 21% of visitors to the exhibition had a purchasing budget of more than RUB 50 million.

— One of the most significant developments from the exhibition is the decision to make Woodex an annual event, replacing the previous schedule of biennial exhibitions. Please advise as to the rationale behind the decision to make the exhibition an annual event?

In today's rapidly changing market conditions, it is crucial for our visitors to receive solutions in a timely manner. We recognize the need to meet the demand of industry participants for a reliable platform that can offer a comprehensive range of resources for the entire production chain, from machine tools to materials, and quality products. This is the rationale behind the change to an annual format.

— All of the above are serious strategic steps. What motivates them?

First and foremost, the driving force is the implementation of successful common practices. At world-leading venues such as LIGNA in Hanover or CIFF in Guangzhou, visitors have the opportunity to explore a comprehensive range of solutions in a single location.

In Russia, Woodex is becoming the first exhibition to provide industry-wide synergy. We are confident that these changes will increase the efficiency of the exhibition for both exhibitors and visitors.

We will be in touch and look forward to seeing all industry professionals at Woodex 2025 as exhibitors and visitors.

The 19th annual Woodex International Exhibition will take place from December 2-5 in Moscow at the Crocus Expo IEC.