INTERFORST 2026 showcases forestry technology as a driver of innovation

As the leading international trade fair for forestry and forestry technology, INTERFORST will bring together key industry players in Munich from October 15 to 18, 2026. Trade visitors, manufacturers and suppliers will gain a comprehensive overview of the latest technologies, processes and solutions, while discussing how forestry and forestry technology can be made fit for the future during a period of profound change.

Stable growth is forecast for the global forestry technology market. According to the report Forestry Machinery Market, the sector is expected to grow at an average annual rate of nearly five percent through 2035. Driven by climate change, a shortage of skilled workers, and stricter emissions and sustainability requirements, forestry machinery is being continuously optimized. As a result, the modern forestry technology industry is emerging as a key driver of innovation.

Global growth, weak German market

According to the Forestry Machinery Market Size and Share report, North America is expected to remain the largest market for forestry technology in the coming years. The Asia-Pacific region is expected to record the fastest growth.

In Germany, however, the market for forestry machinery remains challenging. “This is primarily due to the decline in salvage logging. Its large volume led from 2018 to increased new procurement, causing the market to reach a certain level of saturation,” explains Andrea Hauck, Head of Forestry Operations and Technology Assessment at KWF (German Centre for Forestry Work and Technology).

“At the same time, demand for wood in the construction sector remains modest. Nevertheless, there are signs that the market may be starting to recover.”

Uncertainties weighing on forestry companies

Technological innovations and digitalization are driving robust growth in forestry technology worldwide. At the same time, many German buyers – forestry companies and private and municipal forest owners – face major economic challenges.

“Stricter regulations, a slump in orders, rising costs and political uncertainty are making long-term planning difficult. Numerous companies are now operating at a loss, while family businesses face unresolved succession issues or closure,” explains Vera Butterweck-Kruse, Chairwoman of the Association of German Forestry Companies (DFUV).

In addition to the economic pressure, she believes the focus must also shift to how the industry can reposition itself through stronger cooperation.

“INTERFORST will be a key platform for developing collaboration, strengthening partnerships, and providing companies with inspiration, contacts and prospects for the future.”

Efficiency, sustainability and performance as drivers

Sustainable and efficient forest management is a key driver in the development of modern forestry technology. New machines, systems and components form the technological foundation for innovation across the industry. Particular attention is being paid to energy-efficient drive systems, more precise workflows and optimized machine technologies.

Digitalization transforms forestry operations

Forestry technology is evolving toward connected and data-driven systems. These include sensor and measurement technology, intelligent software and control solutions, and digital systems for data collection and analysis. Such technologies enable better-informed decisions, more efficient planning processes and greater transparency in forest management.

For the first time, INTERFORST will feature a Start-up Area where young companies can showcase new business models and innovative technologies throughout the forestry value chain.

Components driving innovation

A key trend is the development of highly specialized components and integrated system solutions. These include modern drive technologies, hydraulic systems, automotive electronics and intelligent cab and machine controls. They lay the technological foundation for innovative machine designs and enhance efficiency and performance.

“At INTERFORST 2026, SYSTEMS & COMPONENTS Forestry by DLG will, for the first time, serve as a meeting place in Hall B6 for suppliers, OEM developers, designers, system integrators and procurement managers,” explains Petra Kaiser, Brand Manager of SYSTEMS & COMPONENTS.

“This underlines its role as a key forum for the innovative supply industry and manufacturers of forestry machinery.”

The programme will be complemented by expert presentations and a networking event for forestry machinery OEMs and suppliers on the afternoon of October 15 at the DLG stand in Hall B6.

Experience forestry technology live

For the first time, INTERFORST will offer demonstration areas directly at exhibitor stands, allowing companies to showcase modern forestry technology in action. Additional live demonstration areas will highlight different parts of the forestry value chain, including “The firewood value chain” and “Highly mechanized timber harvesting”.

Among the exhibitors, Bindenberger will present timber harvesting and processing machinery, while Eschlböck will showcase professional wood chippers. The Italian company Seppi will display specialized forestry equipment ranging from lightweight attachments to remote-controlled tracked carriers.

Prinoth will provide information about its forestry tracked carriers and grinders, as well as digital networking and machine control solutions. Wyssen Seilbahnen will present timber harvesting systems designed for demanding steep-terrain operations. Reil & Eichinger will showcase modern wood-processing machinery, forestry tractors, tracked carriers and proprietary special-purpose machinery.

At the special exhibition “Shaping forests together. Utilizing diversity. Securing the future”, the University of Göppingen will demonstrate the impact of forestry tractors on forest soils and present various exoskeleton solutions for forestry work.

KWF will participate with a feller-forwarder featuring a 20-metre crane reach that is not yet commercially available. The machine, described as a world first, was developed as part of the Outreach project with KWF involvement.

Forum and congress program

The congress programme on October 16 will focus on the theme “Forestry Technology in Motion”. Topics include soil protection, small tracked carriers, fully automated loading and unloading systems, and future trends in the forestry sector.

Among the speakers are Dr. Lorenz Breining of the University of Göttingen, Christoph Strecker and Alexander Kreis of Graz University of Technology, and Juha Inberg of Ponsse, who will discuss current trends shaping the forestry industry.

The forum programme will also feature a presentation by the German Agricultural Society (DLG) titled “INTERFORST 2026 Systems & Components Forestry” on October 17 as part of the session “Forest Technology on New Paths”.