GLASS TRENDS SESSIONS

Knowledge of the future of glass

The glass trends sessions bring together industry expertise from both theory and practice and are organised around three global trend themes. Every day, visitors to glasstec 2024 can find out about the latest developments and trends in sessions on glass production, glass processing and finishing, and glass products and applications.

At a glance

Date:
20–23 October 2026
Location:
Stage 1 – glass trends live, Hall 10 A10
Price:
Free of charge – included in the ticket price

Jetzt Tickets kaufen ❯

Focus on the hot topics of the glass industry

Decarbonisation, resource conservation and digital transformation are among the key challenges facing the glass industry. Energy-intensive production processes in particular, rising efficiency requirements and the responsible use of raw materials make it clear that the industry must explore new avenues.

This is precisely where the glass trends sessions come in. They focus on the Hot Topics at glasstec 2026: AI and digital technologies, decarbonisation and the circular economy. In concise specialist presentations, industry experts will highlight which solutions, technologies and approaches are relevant today – and where the key opportunities for the future lie.

Topics along the value chain

The sessions combine technological developments with practical applications

Whether it’s glass manufacturing, processing, finishing, product development or research: the glass trends sessions examine the future of the glass industry from a range of perspectives. The result is a concise programme for anyone wishing to understand technological developments, keep abreast of market trends and learn about specific applications.

Glass Production & Technology

How can glass production become more efficient, digital and sustainable?

New technologies, more energy-efficient processes and digital solutions are shaping the future of glass production. The sessions will highlight the approaches that can transform production, quality and resource use in the long term.

Glass Processing & Finishing

How can glass processing and finishing be developed to meet the challenges of the future?

From automated processes to functional surfaces: this section explores the processes, technologies and applications that give glass new properties and design possibilities.

Glass Products & Applications

What new applications are emerging from the latest innovations in glass?

Whether in architecture, industry, building envelopes or interiors: the focus is on products and solutions that demonstrate how glass takes on new functions and creates added value in a variety of applications.

Research & Teaching

What ideas from research and teaching are driving the glass industry forward?

Universities and research institutions provide insights into new research questions, experimental approaches and developments that strengthen the transfer of knowledge between academia and industrial applications.

The full programme, including the timeline, will be available shortly.

Moderation

Experienced presenters from trade associations, the research sector and industry will provide expert guidance throughout the glass trends sessions programme. They will contextualise the presentations, draw links to the hot topics at glasstec 2026 and provide a clear framework for the sessions to facilitate knowledge transfer and discussion.

Gesine Bergmann

Head of Forum Glass Technology,
VDMA e.V.

Jochen Grönegräs

Managing Director,
Bundesverband Flachglas e. V.

Dr. Christoph Hermanns

Managing Director,
MDI Advanced Processing GmbH

Dr. Thomas Jüngling

Managing Director,
HVG e.V. / DGG e.V.

Christiane Nelles

Director General,
Bundesverband Glasindustrie e.V.

Experience the future of the glass industry up close

Make the most of the glass trends sessions to gain an understanding of the latest developments, discover new solutions and take away valuable inspiration for your work. Meet industry experts and combine specialist knowledge with your visit to glasstec 2026.

Get your glasstec ticket ❯

Image Credits: Christiane Nelles: © BV Glas / Jochen Rolfes, Jochen Grönegräs: © Bundesverband Flachglas, Gesine Bergmann: ©VDMA e.V., Dr. Christoph Hermanns: © MDI Advanced Processing GmbH, Dr. Thomas Jüngling: © DGG (Deutsche Glastechnische Gesellschaft e.V.)