Ilmac, the Swiss trade fair for the chemical and life science industry, is taking place again at the end of the summer. Céline Futterknecht, Brand Director Ilmac, was available to ChemieXtra for an interview about the Basel edition from September 16 to 18.

How was Ilmac Lausanne in September 2024?
Céline Futterknecht: With 65 percent more entries compared to 2022, we were able to attract more visitors than ever before to the Lausanne edition of the trade fair. Internationality increased and we recorded a high level of satisfaction among visitors and exhibitors. Lausanne created an inviting space for networking with a good atmosphere. The event was a great success for us. As a result, and building on the trade fair’s 66-year history, Ilmac has established itself as the leading Swiss platform. Today, it plays an important role in networking decision-makers, innovators and future shapers from the entire industry.

Is there anything you are taking away from Ilmac Basel?
Absolutely, we are expanding the exhibitor segments and delving deeper into future-relevant topics such as robotics, automation, biotechnology and digitalization. In addition, this year’s bookable Lux stands in Basel also offer new participation opportunities for companies that want to present their products or services. Today, Ilmac is much more than just a laboratory trade fair; it offers a wide range of topics, including interactive exchange.
In Basel, we expect a broad spectrum of participants – from executives and researchers to buyers and innovators – reflecting the entire spectrum of the life sciences and process industries.

The fair has been around for over 65 years. Is there anything on the program in this regard?
We are looking forward to celebrating the 66th anniversary of Ilmac. This year, we would like to celebrate this special occasion with a party, which will take place on the first evening in the Bambusnest. We invite both visitors and exhibitors to join us in Hall 2.0 from 5.00 pm. We are expecting around 1,500 guests on this evening full of opportunities for networking and discussions with industry colleagues. Food, drink and music will of course be provided.

You are launching the “Women in Life Sciences” format. What can visitors expect from this?
On September 17, we are dedicating the evening to women in the life sciences sector. At the event, which starts at 4.30 pm, we will be looking at the “gender health gap” and the importance of female managers in the life sciences. This exclusive event is designed to provide insightful discussions, networking opportunities and actionable strategies to promote diversity, equity and innovation in healthcare and much more. The event will be followed by an aperitif.

The “Future of Life Sciences Area” will also be presented for the first time in 2025. What does it offer the public?
The Future of Life Sciences area will showcase technological breakthroughs – from AI-driven drug development to innovative robotics technology that will shape the next era of the industry. This is about technological breakthroughs that will change our future. Hall 1.0 will showcase new ideas and technologies that will usher in the next era of life sciences. Designed for pioneers in the pharma, biotech and medtech industries, this interactive platform will feature live demos, expert discussions and hands-on innovation.

There has also been a change to the Pharma Logistics Days …
… Exactly, we have now integrated the Pharma Logistics Days in Hall 1.0 during all three days of the fair. We are expecting more exhibitors not only from Switzerland, but also from Europe. The “PLD Coffee Talks Corner” stage, where exciting industry topics and innovative new products relating to pharmaceutical logistics, packaging and transport will be presented, is also celebrating its premiere.

How many visitors are you expecting in September?
We are expecting over 12,000 visitors in Basel, which we are very pleased about.

What else do people interested in Ilmac 2025 need to know?
Ilmac has played a very important role as Switzerland’s largest trade fair for the industry for 66 years, and I and my team will continue to successfully drive this forward. This year, we are planning a very future-oriented trade fair with strong themes on all four stages. Trends, innovations, practical application examples and solutions will be actively promoted through dialog. In addition to the trade fair, Ilmac 2025 will offer an interactive ecosystem for networking, trends and innovations. It thus strengthens Basel’s position as the heart of the Swiss life sciences industry.

What’s the best way to prepare for the trade fair?
The easiest way is via the Ilmac app. Both exhibitors and visitors should download the trade fair app, which is also linked to the Ilmac 365 community platform.

First publication of the interview in ChemieXtra issue 5-6/2025 in German