For collectors around the world, the Internationale Süßwarenmesse (ISM) in Cologne is far more than just another industry appointment. As the world’s largest trade fair for confectionery and snacks, it represents a central meeting point for the international food industry. Each year, the global sweets community gathers at the Cologne exhibition grounds to showcase innovations, initiate partnerships, and set the tone for the year ahead.
From February 1–4, 2026, PEZ once again made ISM a fixed date in its calendar. The objective was clear: establish new business relationships, present products in the spotlight of the global trade audience, and further strengthen networks within the industry.
With a slight delay, we are pleased to present a closer look at the impressive PEZ booth. Taking center stage this year was the exciting new product launch: Pez Shock Headz Sour.
Spotlight on Innovation: PEZ Shock Headz Sour
The Shock Headz appear as bold, stylized skulls, a playful “Skullhead” design that immediately catches the eye. This skull motif is not only featured prominently on the packaging, the candies themselves are molded in matching skull shapes, reinforcing the edgy and distinctive concept.
Available in convenient 25 g bags, visitors could choose between two electrifying flavors: Electric Apple and Buzzing Strawberry. The combination of sour taste and striking skull design gives this line a strong shelf presence and clearly positions it toward a younger, trend-driven target group, while naturally sparking curiosity among collectors as well.
A Must for Collectors: The 2026 Dispenser Line-Up
Of course, no PEZ trade fair appearance would be complete without the current dispenser assortment. The display cases at the booth showcased a strong and diverse 2026 portfolio, including dispensers from:
Minecraft
Hello Kitty
Hot Wheels Monster Trucks
Super Mario
And the brand-new Toy Story PEZ dispensers.
The Essential Trade Fair Goodie
For collectors, these showcases are always a highlight, offering a first glimpse at new molds, licensed collaborations, and future must-haves for their collections.
And what would a trade fair be without an exclusive giveaway? Unlike the Sweets & Snacks Expo in the United States, where limited-edition PEZ figures (often restricted to 1,000 pieces) are traditionally distributed, PEZ International opted for a different but equally stylish approach this year.
Visitors to the ISM booth received a high-quality stainless steel drinking bottle featuring the striking new Candy Pattern design. A practical yet collectible keepsake that perfectly combines branding and everyday functionality.
We warmly congratulate PEZ International on a truly successful trade fair appearance and hope the team enjoyed an inspiring and productive time in Cologne, filled with engaging conversations, valuable contacts, and promising new opportunities. For PEZ collectors, ISM 2026 once again proved: the world of PEZ continues to evolve, creatively, globally, and with unmistakable charm.
Happy Collecting!
February 17, 2026
