Visitors to K 2025, taking place from 8 to 15 October in Düsseldorf, will be able to join thematically focused guided tours on several days of the show. The formats are designed to combine expert knowledge with targeted orientation at the booths of relevant exhibitors, helping participants gain a clear overview of current developments in their field of interest. Tours are offered in German and English, and participation is free of charge. Detailed information and registration are available via Guided tours at the K 2025 trade fair. The event will be open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. from Wednesday, 8 October to Wednesday, 15 October 2025. Ticket prices are 60 euros for a day ticket and 125 euros for a three-day ticket, with pupils and students paying 20 euros for a day ticket.
The programme spans three focal areas. A materials and design route addresses innovative materials, sustainable concepts and new technologies in industrial design. A set of digitalisation-oriented tours examines intelligent production processes, the use of artificial intelligence and recycling solutions, including best practices in circular economy and data-driven workflows. A Young Talents tour, led by young professionals from the sector, introduces vocational pathways and study options, illustrating the diversity of roles in the plastics and rubber industry. Selected routes include a stop at the VDMA Power of Plastics Forum as well as visits to exhibitors presenting smart design and process transparency approaches.
Materials and design tour
The Materials & Design tour is guided by designer and materials expert Chris Lefteri and is targeted at creative professionals, product developers and designers. The route leads to exhibitors that are setting standards with innovative materials, sustainable concepts and new technologies in materials and industrial design. Along the way, Chris Lefteri outlines design trends he considers particularly relevant for the future and discusses how functional, sensory and emotional values can be combined in modern plastic solutions.
Digital solutions, smart processes and recycling
Digitalisation is reshaping the plastics industry, with efficiency, resource conservation and sustainability as key drivers. The themed tours in this area focus on intelligent production processes, the application of artificial intelligence and innovative recycling solutions. Participants see how companies deploy digital technologies to improve transparency, process reliability and sustainability. The programme includes visits to the VDMA Power of Plastics Forum and to exhibitors showcasing best practices in the circular economy, smart design and data-driven processes.
The world of plastics and rubber from 8 to 15 October 2025. Photo: Messe Düsseldorf
Young talents tour
Aimed at vocational school students, trainees and students, the Young Talents Tour is run by young representatives of the industry. It provides insights into training, academic courses and career paths, highlighting the breadth and prospects of the plastics and rubber sector. The tour includes the Young Talents Lounge, selected exhibitor stands and hands-on activities. The format is positioned as an inspiring introduction to the industry, not only for young visitors.
Participation in all guided tours is free. Further details and registration are available via Guided tours at the K 2025 trade fair.
