GoPhotonics interviewed Anke Odouli, the Exhibition Director of Laser World of Photonics. After completing her master's degree in communication science, Anke Odouli began her career at the German-American Chamber of Foreign Trade. In 2007, she joined Messe München in the “New Technologies” division, where she was Exhibition Director for electronica and productronica, among others. She has served as Exhibition Director of the Laser World of Photonics and the World of Photonics Congress since 2019 and of the World of Quantum since 2022. Additionally, as Global Industry Lead, she is responsible for the international photonics trade fairs of the LASER network in India and China and acts as Deputy Executive Director for the “New Technologies” area.

Q. What can attendees expect from Laser World of Photonics 2025 that sets it apart from previous years? What new features or improvements have been introduced to enrich the experience for exhibitors and visitors?

Anke Odouli: We are delighted to have set a new record in 2025 with around 1,350 exhibitors from 43 countries who will showcase their innovations at LASER. We have many new highlights in our extensive supporting program, which offers plenty of space to exchange ideas with experts. New formats here include the Integrated Photonics Applications forum with presentations on the role of integrated photonics in telecommunications and AI, as well as the special show “Photonics Meets Robotics: AI Success Stories.” Another highlight: two parallel trade fairs that complement the LASER offering perfectly - World of Quantum, the world’s largest trade fair for quantum technologies, and automatica, the leading exhibition for smart automation and robotics. With one trade fair ticket, visitors will have access to all three events.

Q. How does this year’s edition reflect the evolving role of photonics in industry and society? Could you share the overarching theme or vision driving the 2025 trade fair?

Anke Odouli: The 2025 edition underscores the growing influence of photonics across industry and society. At both Laser World of Photonics and the World of Photonics Congress, we are committed to presenting the entire spectrum of photonics: from basic scientific research to practical applications. We will be highlighting some sectors in particular, such as healthcare with the MedTecLIVE Healthtech Pavilion, AI and telecommunications with the Integrated Photonics Application Stage, and industrial manufacturing with the special show “Photons in Production.”

Q. Which technological trends or innovations are you most excited to showcase this year? How is the fair addressing key growth sectors such as quantum technology, AI integration, or green photonics?

Anke Odouli: One trend is, of course, the use of artificial intelligence. At LASER, for example, the focus will be on how AI can be integrated into laser-based manufacturing processes or sensor applications. In industrial manufacturing, advances in high-power lasers and ultrashort pulse lasers are opening up new application possibilities. Biophotonics is also gaining importance, for example, for medical diagnostics and therapy. Photonic solutions for sustainability also continue to play a major role, for example, for electromobility or energy-efficient production. For the exciting field of quantum technology, we launched our own trade fair in 2022 that runs in parallel to LASER: the World of Quantum. Here, we offer a platform to the international quantum community not only to showcase their innovations, but also to inform and network - which is particularly important for such a young technology.

Q. What role do you believe Munich will continue to play as a hub for the global photonics community?

Anke Odouli: Munich will continue to play a leading role in the global photonics community thanks to its strong research institutions, a dense network of high-tech companies, and major events like Laser World of Photonics and the World of Photonics Congress. Supported by government funding for high-tech sectors and a vibrant innovation ecosystem, the city remains a magnet for top talent and a key driver of technological advancement in the field.

Q. In what ways are start-ups and emerging companies being supported or spotlighted at the event?

Anke Odouli: Start-ups are supported through dedicated spaces like the Integrated Photonics Area, where they can showcase innovations alongside major players. They also benefit from our application-oriented forums, exhibitor talks, and networking events that connect them with investors and industry leaders. A strong focus on sustainability and talent development further aligns with the goals of many emerging companies.

Q. Sustainability is a growing concern for global events. What measures has Laser World of Photonics taken to make the fair more sustainable?

Anke Odouli: Sustainability plays an important role, both in the showcased innovations and in the trade fair organization. In terms of the event organization, measures such as not using carpets, digitalized visitor guidance, sustainable stand construction, and regional catering reduce the ecological footprint. We also offer an optional Go Green ticket, which can be used to support climate projects. In terms of content, we put a strong focus on conveying the role photonics plays for sustainability.

For example, photonics solutions will be presented that contribute to energy efficiency and environmental protection, as through precise laser processes in manufacturing. LASER also promotes the exchange of ideas on sustainable future technologies with forums, discussion panels, and workshops.

Q. What are your key takeaways from working with the photonics community over the years?

Anke Odouli: Over the years, working with the photonics community has shown me just how innovative and forward-thinking this industry truly is. It is a highly dynamic industry that not only leads in technology, but also actively tackles the major challenges of our time, for example, sustainability. It is a tight-knit community; people know each other, and there is a strong spirit of ongoing collaboration. This combination of innovation, broad perspective, and collegial cooperation makes working with the photonics community especially rewarding.

Q. How is international participation shaping up this year? Are there any new countries or regions exhibiting for the first time?

Anke Odouli: International participation is shaping up very positively this year. We are seeing especially strong growth from Southeast Asia, with Singapore and the Special Administrative Region Hong Kong showing the highest percentage increases. In absolute terms, the largest growth is coming from China - reflecting the current dynamics of the global market, as depicted by the trade fair. We are also pleased to welcome several new countries to the exhibition for the first time, including Latvia, New Zealand, and Laos.

Q. Have you observed any significant shifts in the global photonics market based on exhibitor or visitor interest?

Anke Odouli: LASER always serves as a kind of mirror for the global photonics market. We will have exhibitors from 43 countries, around two-thirds of whom will be coming from outside of Germany, underscoring the internationality of the photonics industry and its increasing global involvement. There is a high level of interest in topics such as integrated photonics and, of course, AI and we will meet this demand at LASER with special areas and shows. Demand is also particularly strong in the optics sector this year. The hall dedicated to this sector is really packed.

About Laser World of Photonics

Laser World of Photonics, the world’s leading trade fair for the photonics industry, is set to take place in Munich from June 24 to 27, 2025. The event will bring together top players from research, industry, and technology to showcase the latest innovations in photonics, lasers, and optical technologies.