Organised by JIFMA (Japan Industrial Furnace Manufacturers Association), with Messe Frankfurt Japan Ltd serving as the show management office, the fair ran alongside Foundry Tech + Expo 2026, providing opportunities for exchange between the industrial heating and foundry sectors. Mr Akira Ozaki, Chairman of the Japan Industrial Furnace Manufacturers Association (JIFMA), commented: “Not only did the fair receive a record high visitor number, our exhibitors reported productive discussions and tangible benefits. As labour shortages intensify, elements such as advanced control systems using IT and AI, alongside automated operation, will become increasingly important to competitiveness. Innovation in industrial furnaces can help strengthen manufacturing across Japan.”
The comprehensive fringe programme featured a range of topical discussions, including four speakers addressing industry challenges, energy efficiency and decarbonisation. Eight universities and research laboratories participated in the ‘Academic Corner’, with 10 research-focused presentations supporting exchange between academia and industry. Meanwhile, 28 exhibitor presentations – several of which attracted especially large audiences – helped increase visibility for suppliers.
Exhibitors' comments
We are manufacturer of integrated combustion control and monitoring solutions for commercial and industrial boilers. As a first-time exhibitor, we were able to introduce our new product to a wide range of industry professionals. We also held promising discussions that could lead to contracts, and are very pleased with the response.”
Mr Steve Kemp, Head of Sales Department, Autoflame Engineering Ltd., United Kingdom
“Thermotec 2026 attracted more visitors than at the previous edition, helping strengthen our presence in Japan. As a US-based global company, we have demonstrated our international capabilities and commitment to quality and after-sales service to potential customers. We met numerous foundry manufacturers and explored new business relationships. Collaboration proposals involving sensor technologies also increased concrete prospects for future partnerships.”
Mr Motohiko Yamaguchi, President, Inductotherm Group Japan LTD.
The sister fair Thermal Technology will be held in 2028.
https://thermaltechnology-expo.jp.messefrankfurt.com
Press information and photographic material:
https://thermotec.jp.messefrankfurt.com/tokyo/en/press/photos.html
Links to websites:
https://thermotec.jp.messefrankfurt.com/tokyo/en.html
Background information on Messe Frankfurt:
www.messefrankfurt.com/background-information
More about technical trade fairs worldwide:
https://technology.messefrankfurt.com/frankfurt/en.html