From 7 to 10 July 2026, Hamburg will host CineHamburg for the first time, a new key industry gathering for the German and international cinema sector. The event is intended as a successor to and merger of established industry conferences and positions itself as a platform for exchange, innovation and market analysis across the entire cinema value chain.

An industry gathering combining a trade fair, a conference and a film programme

CineHamburg combines three key elements: a trade fair, a conference and film screenings. Alongside traditional trade shows and screenings, the programme features an extensive conference programme with panel discussions, seminars and workshops on the latest developments in the industry.

Venues include the Congress Centre Hamburg (CCH) and the CinemaxX Dammtor, which together will serve as the central meeting place for distributors, cinema operators, technical service providers and producers.

Focus: Audiences, Data and the Future of Cinema

The conference focuses on the question of how cinema can hold its own in a rapidly changing media landscape. Several panel discussions will analyse audience behaviour, the role of data in programme planning, and new strategies for audience retention.

Titles such as „The Changing Audience“ or „The opportunity lies in the data“ clearly point the way: the industry is increasingly looking for data-driven solutions for reach, marketing and programming.

AI and technological transformation

Another key focus is on the role of artificial intelligence and technological innovations. The discussion will cover potential applications in distribution, analysis and marketing, as well as the impact on traditional business models in the cinema industry.

On the panel „The Cinema of the Future“ It also brings together economic issues and technical developments – with the aim of assessing the long-term viability of cinema in the digital age.

Film screenings as a market signal

Alongside the discussion sessions, the screenings and trade shows remain a key part of the event. Several upcoming cinema releases for late summer and autumn 2026 will be shown, giving industry professionals a first glimpse of the forthcoming programme whilst also serving as a market indicator.

A focus on networking and industry structure

Alongside the programme events, networking sessions, evening events and informal get-togethers are a key feature of the event. CineHamburg thus clearly positions itself as the central meeting place for the German-speaking cinema industry – attracting a high concentration of decision-makers and industry professionals.

Conclusion: Finding your bearings in a changing industry

CineHamburg 2026 highlights an industry in the midst of upheaval: faced with economic pressure, changing audience behaviour and technological transformation, the cinema industry is seeking new strategies. At the same time, it is becoming clear that cinemas are not merely venues for screening films, but are increasingly evolving into experimental spaces for data analysis, the application of technology and new business models.