Cersaie Bologna 2025: Spain Leads International Participation

Cersaie Prepares to Reaffirm Its Position as the Global Showcase for Ceramics, with Spain Shining as the Undisputed Protagonist.  With over 140 Spanish exhibitors already confirmed for the 2025 edition, Spain will lead international participation at this premier global event.  

Cersaie 2025 will take place from September 22 to 26 in Bologna, Italy, and is expected to bring together more than 600 exhibitors across an impressive 160,000 square meters of exhibition space. The previous edition attracted over 95,000 visitors, nearly 50% of whom were international—numbers expected to be surpassed at Cersaie Bologna 2025. Additionally, this year’s edition will revolve around three key pillars: design, technology, and sustainability, crucial aspects for the future of the ceramic industry.  

Spain Leads International Participation at Cersaie 2025

For the second consecutive year, the Spanish ceramic sector demonstrates its international strength at the Cersaie trade fair in Bologna. While Italy remains the natural host of the event, Spain solidifies its position as the second-largest representative, with a delegation that grows year after year, reflecting the strategic importance of this market for Spanish companies.  

Over 140 Spanish Exhibitors Confirmed

Spain’s participation at Cersaie 2025 reaches a new record, with 140 exhibitors officially confirmed. This figure represents a significant increase compared to previous editions and positions the Spanish delegation as the largest after Italy’s.  

The growth is particularly notable when compared to the 2024 edition, when 96 Spanish companies traveled to Bologna to showcase their latest collections. Similarly, looking back to 2023, over 150 Spanish companies chose Cersaie as the platform to present their innovations and projects, confirming this upward trend.  

Among the Spanish exhibitors are primarily tile manufacturers and distributors, many of them members of ASCER (Spanish Association of Tile and Ceramic Flooring Manufacturers). In 2024, for example, 72 Spanish ASCER member companies, along with four associate members, participated in the fair. For 2025, this number is expected to grow even further, reflecting the Spanish sector’s commitment to maintaining its international visibility.  

The expansive exhibition space occupied by Spanish companies will allow them to showcase the full range of ceramic innovations developed in Spain—from new formats and designs to technologically advanced solutions that meet current market demands.  

Sustained Growth of Spain’s Presence at the Fair

The positive evolution of Spain’s participation at Cersaie is no coincidence but the result of a coherent sector-wide strategy. Over the past decades, the Spanish ceramic industry has experienced steady growth in its international presence, transitioning from an emerging competitor to a global leader in several segments.  

Particularly since the 1990s, Spain has risen to become the world leader in ceramic frits, colors, and glazes. This leadership was achieved through dedicated R&D efforts and the competitiveness of Spanish companies, surpassing Italy, which had previously pioneered this sector.  

Consequently, Spain’s presence at Cersaie has grown proportionally to this sectoral prominence. From the 68 companies that participated a few years ago to the over 140 confirmed for 2025, the growth has been consistent, reflecting the importance Spanish companies place on this event as an international showcase.  

Moreover, Cersaie has become a crucial meeting point for professionals in the construction industry, architects, interior designers, distributors, and manufacturers interested in the latest ceramic products and technologies, making Spain’s participation strategically vital.  

Strategic Importance of the Italian Market for Spain

Italy is one of the priority markets for the Spanish ceramic sector. However, the true importance of Cersaie for Spanish companies lies in its international reach. The fair attracts a primarily international audience, with over 95,000 attendees in 2024, making it an ideal platform to boost Spanish exports.  

In fact, exports are the driving force of the Spanish ceramic sector. Three out of every four ceramic tiles produced in Spain are sold abroad, and the sector exports over 70% of its production. This export-oriented approach has made Spain the leading exporter to regions such as North Africa and Latin America.  

The Spanish ceramic frits industry has prioritized diversification and international expansion from its inception. Today, Spanish companies have subsidiaries in Italy, Brazil, Indonesia, China, Mexico, India, Morocco, and other countries. The main destinations for Spanish exports include Italy, China, Egypt, Algeria, Russia, Morocco, India, Turkey, the UAE, Germany, Poland, Brazil, and more.  

Therefore, participating in Cersaie not only allows Spanish companies to strengthen ties with Italian and international distributors, architects, installers, and real estate professionals but also reinforces their leadership position in an increasingly competitive global market. Through this continued presence at the world’s most important ceramic trade fair, the Spanish ceramic industry demonstrates its ability to compete and lead in international markets.  

Cersaie Bologna 2025 Confirms Dates and Expectations

The organizers of Cersaie have officially confirmed all details for the 2025 edition, reinforcing its status as the global reference event for the ceramic and bathroom furnishing sectors. The fair will take place at the BolognaFiere exhibition center, with high expectations following the success of previous editions.  

The Fair Will Run from September 22 to 26

The official dates for Cersaie 2025 have been confirmed. The event will take place from September 22 to 26, 2025, at the BolognaFiere exhibition center. Over five intensive days, BolognaFiere will become the global epicenter of the ceramic industry, hosting the latest innovations and trends in the sector.  

This edition marks a special milestone for the fair, as it celebrates its 43rd edition with a visual manifesto symbolizing the evolution of the sector through layered volumes and colorful planes, creating interconnected and dynamic spaces that capture the energy and complexity of contemporary living.  

Additionally, emerging brands and high-quality, technologically advanced materials will have a strategic location near the Costituzione Entrance, a prime access point for visitors arriving from the city or train station. Pavilions 31 and 32 have been designed to offer an extraordinary range of premium products.  

Over 100,000 Visitors and 650 Exhibitors Expected

Expectations for Cersaie 2025 are ambitious, with projections exceeding 100,000 international visitors. These estimates are based on the upward trend observed in previous editions: the 2023 edition recorded 99,319 visitors over five days, an 8.8% increase from the previous year, while the 2024 edition attracted over 95,000 visitors, nearly 50% of whom were international.  

In terms of exhibitors, over 650 participants are expected in 2025. The 2023 edition featured 633 companies from 27 countries, while 2024 saw 606 exhibitors from 25 countries, with 38% coming from outside Italy.  

A particularly relevant statistic is the geographical diversity of attendees. Recent editions have attracted professionals from 164 different countries, solidifying Cersaie’s truly global character. This internationalization is one of the biggest draws for Spanish exhibitors, who see Cersaie as an ideal platform to establish worldwide business connections.  

BolognaFiere Expands Exhibition Space to 160,000 m²

One of the major updates for the 2025 edition is the expansion of the BolognaFiere exhibition center, which will reach 160,000 m². This represents a significant increase compared to previous editions, which covered between 140,000 and 145,000 m².  

The growth in exhibition space responds to rising demand from exhibitors and the organizers’ commitment to offering a more comprehensive experience for visitors. In past editions, all 15 pavilions were fully booked months before the event, highlighting the strong interest in the fair among industry players.  

The space has been carefully planned to maximize visibility for all exhibitors. The represented sectors will include:  

• Ceramic tiles  
• Non-ceramic flooring and wall coverings  
• Bathroom furnishings  
• Sanitary installations  
• Raw materials  
• Ceramic machinery  
• Installation materials and tools  
• Ceramic product distributors  

Thus, Cersaie 2025 is shaping up to be a historic edition that will strengthen the prominence of Spanish companies on the international stage, offering new business opportunities and consolidating existing commercial relationships in an environment designed to foster innovation and knowledge exchange.  

What’s New at Cersaie 2025?

The 2025 edition of Cersaie introduces a renewed vision, expanding on the concept presented in 2024 toward a broader, three-dimensional perspective. This year, the fair reinforces its identity as a space for architectural design, a concept that has defined the event in recent years, focusing on responsible and integrated design for both indoor and outdoor environments.  

Focus on Sustainability, Design, and Technology

The Manifesto for the 2025 edition embodies the evolving relationship between architecture and daily life—a dynamic dialogue that adapts and transforms over time. Sustainability remains a central priority, as demonstrated by the initiatives to be showcased at the fair. Among them is the CCS4CER project (Carbon Capture Storage and CO2 Mineralization for the Ceramic Industry), funded by the European Union and the Emilia-Romagna region.  

This pioneering project aims to use CO₂ emissions from tile production to mineralize waste materials, creating secondary raw materials for carbon-negative cements and mortars. Additionally, several companies will present collections based on reuse and recycling principles, with products incorporating up to 60.2% pre-consumer recycled content.  

Furthermore, the visual concept for Cersaie 2025 symbolizes this evolution through a composition of multi-level volumes and colored planes that create interconnected, dynamic spaces. This approach responds to global dynamics, rapid mobility, and cultural exchange, shaping cities where diverse cultures and lifestyles intersect.  

New Smart Ceramic Materials

A standout innovation at Cersaie 2025 will be ultra-thin ceramic slabs, with thicknesses of just 2 mm, making them the thinnest currently available on the market. This ultra-thin design optimizes the product’s entire lifecycle: the firing process is faster and takes place in fully electric kilns powered by photovoltaic energy, while transportation is minimized due to significantly reduced weight.  

Additionally, innovative surfaces such as Grey Antique will be showcased—a slab composed of marble and stone from which individual natural elements have been extracted to create collections like Moonstone, Greystone, and Crystal White. These surfaces, which evoke the natural beauty of geological formations, are ideal for walls, countertops, and flooring in both residential and high-traffic commercial settings.  

In line with these trends, many products will draw inspiration from natural materials, featuring water-like effects, light-and-shadow play, and the vibrant chromaticity of pigments found in nature.  

Increased Focus on Outdoor and Hospitality Solutions

Cersaie 2025 will significantly expand its offerings in outdoor and hospitality solutions. Following the success of the Contract Hall, a 10,000 m² space where key players in international contract design meet with prestigious architecture firms, the fair continues to strengthen this segment.  

Exhibition sections will include:  

• Kitchens  
• Indoor and outdoor finishes  
• Lighting and home automation  
• Outdoor design  
• Wellness technologies  

These new sections cater to the growing demand from Italian and international professionals who attend the event each year and are interested in connecting with leading companies in these sectors.  

A distinctive feature will be Archincont(r)act, a space where contractors and major real estate developers can meet with international architecture firms responsible for designing commercial complexes, hotels, residences, hospitals, healthcare centers, and corporate and residential hubs worldwide. In these projects, architects select every detail—from ceramic tiles to bathroom furnishings, lighting, staircases, kitchens, and outdoor furniture.  

Spanish Companies Set to Make Waves at Cersaie 2025

Spanish ceramic companies are preparing to showcase their technological and aesthetic leadership at Cersaie 2025, confirming the innovative capacity of a sector that blends artisanal tradition with cutting-edge advancements. The Spanish delegation will stand out not only in numbers but also in the quality and innovation of its offerings.  

Porcelanosa, Roca, Keraben, and Other Leading Brands

Porcelanosa will present a spectacular 400 m² stand in Pavilion 26 (A296-B198), displaying its latest creations in wall coverings, flooring, and bathroom furnishings. This space, divided into two main areas, will include an immersive room where its XTONE large-format porcelain will take center stage, allowing visitors to experience the material’s qualities through sensory technologies and gesture recognition.  

Roca, another iconic brand, will exhibit its "The New Standard" collection, focused on the essence of contemporary ceramic design. Meanwhile, Keraben will emphasize versatile solutions that combine aesthetics and functionality, particularly in its proposals for public and residential spaces.  

Other notable firms include Vives, Aparici, Azulejos Benadresa, Rosa Gres, and Tau Cerámica, which will present collections reflecting Spain’s creative diversity. In total, over 140 Spanish companies are expected to participate, solidifying Spain’s position as the second-largest representative after Italy.  

Innovations in Antibacterial and Recyclable Surfaces

The Spanish ceramic industry is introducing significant advancements in technological surfaces. Innovations include antibacterial treatments such as Bios Ceramics, which can be applied to various products to enhance hygiene.  

In terms of sustainability, Spanish manufacturers recycled 93% of their waste in 2023, saving 810,000 tons of raw materials. Additionally, water consumption was reduced by 923 million liters, equivalent to 37 Olympic-sized swimming pools.  

Companies will also showcase progress in:  

• Smart ceramics with features like pressure-sensitive LED lighting and induction-fired surfaces  
• Large-format tiles that create spatial continuity between indoors and outdoors  
• Geometric tiles (hexagons, diamonds, triangles) enabling customizable patterns  

Success Stories in Exporting and Sustainable Design

The Spanish ceramic sector maintains a strong export performance, with international sales reaching €3.479 billion in 2024. The European Union accounts for over 40% of these exports, while the United States stands as the largest single destination with 13.5% of the total.  

Meanwhile, the domestic Spanish market grew by 3.1%, contributing €1.340 billion to the sector’s revenue. These results confirm the resilience of the Spanish ceramic industry, which has adapted to external pressures such as economic shifts and rising interest rates.  

The commitment to sustainability is evident in the development of ceramic facades that reduce energy demand by up to 50%, depending on the climate. With a lifespan of up to 50 years and excellent fire resistance, Spanish ceramics have become a preferred material in sustainable architecture.  

Ceramic Trends That Will Dominate 2025

Cersaie Bologna 2025 will be the perfect showcase for the latest ceramic trends defining the sector in the coming years. International manufacturers, especially from Spain and Italy, will present innovations that meet current market demands, combining aesthetics and functionality.  

Large Formats and Textured Surfaces

Tiles continue to grow in size year after year, unlocking new design possibilities. Large, thin porcelain slabs—suitable for covering countertops, furniture, and more—are now available in formats as large as 5.25' x 10.5'. According to a recent ASCER survey, production of these large formats is accelerating, with the share of large-format porcelain slabs doubling between 2021 and 2023.  

Additionally, 3D-effect surfaces mimicking fabrics, stripes, ribbed waves, and geometric patterns will be prominent. Finishes are also diversifying, with polished, silky, textured, and natural options enhancing limitless design potential.  

Neutral Colors, Pastels, and Natural Finishes

Gray remains a designer favorite, with a full spectrum available in the latest tile introductions—from cooler slate tones to the perfect blend of gray and beige. With added texture, chromatic variation, and layered patterns, these tiles prove that bold statements don’t require bright colors.  

Meanwhile, pastel tones are gaining traction, bringing brightness and optimism to spaces. Popular hues include baby blue, bubblegum pink, mint green, peach, and lavender, evoking light and happiness—ideal for home decor.  

Patterned and Artisanal-Style Tiles

Playing with modularity, ceramic companies are designing fragmented patterns on square and rectangular tiles to create dynamic large-scale compositions. By mixing geometric shapes randomly, tiles achieve a vibrant, kaleidoscopic effect.  

Similarly, 2025 trends point to geometric tiles in various colors and sizes—timeless designs that exude elegance and modernity. Chevron and herringbone patterns are rising in popularity, drawing inspiration from ancestral designs reinterpreted in porcelain.  

As a result, ceramic design continues to evolve, and 2025 is no exception. This year’s tile trends are marked by innovation in formats, textures, and finishes, transforming spaces with avant-garde and sophisticated aesthetics.  

Side Events, Networking, and Business Opportunities

Beyond the exhibition stands, Cersaie 2025 will offer a full program of side events, turning the BolognaFiere into a true hub of knowledge, innovation, and business opportunities. This ecosystem of complementary activities will enhance the fair’s value for exhibitors and visitors alike.  

Conferences on Sustainable Architecture

The renowned "Building, Dwelling, Thinking" program will remain one of Cersaie’s cultural cornerstones. This space will host lectures by leading figures in contemporary architecture, including confirmed international architects who will share their experiences and innovative approaches to sustainability and responsible design.  

The conferences will address crucial topics such as the transformation of urban and social contexts, where architectural design plays a key role. Additionally, dedicated sessions will focus on sustainable restoration and the use of ceramics as a fundamental element in the architecture of the future.  

Workshops with Universities and Design Schools

The Tiling Town area will celebrate its 12th edition with hands-on tile installation demonstrations and technical seminars for architects, installers, and distributors. Architects, engineers, and surveyors can earn free training credits while learning about the logistical and technical aspects of large-format ceramic slabs.  

The traditional "Reverse Lesson" for high school students will also continue. Universities in Bologna, Modena, Reggio Emilia, and Ferrara will participate actively through agreements with Confindustria Ceramica, facilitating attendance by graduate and soon-to-graduate students.  

Digital B2B Meeting Agenda with International Buyers

The International Buyers Program will be a key component of the event, facilitating over 9,000 meetings between exhibitors and trade delegations from 70+ countries. Developed in collaboration with the Italian Trade Agency, this program enables purchasing managers and category specialists to establish direct connections with manufacturers.  

Additionally, the International Buyers Preview will return—an exclusive afternoon dedicated to B2B meetings between exhibitors and international buyers in a designated area of the exhibition center. This platform is particularly valuable for importers from Canada, the U.S., and the Far East, who have shown strong interest in past editions.  

Conclusion: Spain Reinforces Its Leadership in the Global Ceramic Industry

Cersaie Bologna 2025 is undoubtedly set to confirm Spain’s leadership in the international ceramic sector. With over 140 exhibitors, Spain’s presence is not only a quantitative record but also a qualitative leap, demonstrating the maturity of its industry. This sustained growth reflects years of continuous innovation and strategic adaptation to global market demands.  

During the fair’s five days (September 22–26), the BolognaFiere will transform into the global epicenter of ceramics, attracting over 100,000 professionals drawn to the excellence of the products on display. The expansion to 160,000 m² of exhibition space will enhance visibility for all participants, especially Spanish companies occupying strategic positions.  

Spain’s ceramic sector has shown remarkable evolution toward a model based on sustainability, advanced design, and disruptive technologies. Innovations in antibacterial surfaces, recyclable materials, and large formats position Spain as an unquestionable technological benchmark.  

While Italy remains the fair’s natural host, Spain has firmly secured its place as the second-largest international participant, building prestige that transcends borders. The sustainable architecture conferences, university workshops, and packed B2B agenda will round out a program full of exceptional business opportunities.  

After analyzing all the updates, we can confidently say that Cersaie 2025 will be more than a commercial showcase—it will be an accurate barometer of the ceramic industry’s future. Spain’s strong presence will reaffirm its privileged position in an increasingly competitive and demanding market.  

The success of Spain’s past participation and the expectations for 2025 allow us to look to the future with optimism. Spanish ceramics will continue gaining global market share thanks to its unique blend of artisanal tradition, technological innovation, and contemporary design. Ultimately, Cersaie Bologna 2025 will be a historic opportunity to strengthen strategic alliances and open new markets, confirming that the Spanish ceramic sector is at its peak.

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