GIS, Europe’s premier lifting, access, and heavy transport showcase, is set to break records again when it returns to Piacenza Expo, Italy, for its 10th edition from 25–27th September 2025, promising a dynamic blend of industry innovation, focused networking, and convivial celebration.
GIS, Europe’s largest dedicated event for lifting, access, and heavy transport, will return to Piacenza Expo, Italy, from 25–27th September 2025 for its milestone 10th edition. With each successive event growing in scale and influence, GIS 2025 is set to be the most significant yet, highlighting cutting-edge innovations, while providing unrivalled networking opportunities.
A growing international platform
Since its inception in 2009, GIS – short for Giornate Italiane del Sollevamento (‘Italian Lifting Days’) – has expanded year on year, attracting an increasingly international audience. The 2023 edition welcomed 18,000 visitors, with a 44% rise in international participation, and featured 432 exhibitors across a sprawling 71,000 m2, showcasing the latest components, services, and machines in the world of cranes, aerial work platforms, telehandlers, forklift trucks, heavy transport vehicles, and other industrial handling equipment.
“We are incredibly proud of GIS’s growth over the years and are excited to further solidify its reputation as Europe’s leading event for lifting, access, and heavy transport,” said Fabio Potestà, director of Mediapoint & Exhibitions, the company behind GIS. “We are witnessing an extraordinary level of interest for the milestone 10th edition, which promises to be the biggest and best yet, offering even more opportunities for networking and collaboration among industry professionals.”
Strong early momentum
By March 2025 – six months before the show – nearly 400 exhibitors had already confirmed their participation, putting GIS 2025 on track to surpass the 2023 record. This strong early interest reflects the event’s growing appeal and the industry’s eagerness to participate. Returning exhibitors will include Manitowoc, Liebherr, Tadano, Genie, Terex, Zoomlion and JLG, along with first-time exhibitors Liugong Europe, Heli Europe, and Hoeflon.
Potestà attributes GIS’s success to its highly focused approach, which ensures exhibitors see a strong return on their investment. “In today’s market, businesses are rightly selective about where they invest their marketing budgets,” he explained. “GIS offers a highly specialised event in a concentrated three-day format that delivers qualified leads, not just general foot traffic. We’ve created an environment where serious business gets done, and Piacenza’s accessibility – situated between Milan and Bologna – makes it an attractive and cost-effective destination for companies to invite their clients.”
During the last edition in 2023, Federico Lovera, plant director at Manitowoc, explained the significance of the event from the crane manufacturer’s perspective. “GIS is always for us a very good exhibition, which has become over the years more and more important,” he said. “It’s a must for us to be here with the latest models we have. GIS is a great chance to connect with customers. The mood is relaxed. We see a positive atmosphere. We always have a very nice customer reception.”
Key themes for GIS 2025
While the full conference programme is yet to be announced, GIS 2025 is expected to highlight some of the most pressing developments shaping the industry. Key discussions will likely explore advancements in electric, hydrogen, and hybrid-powered lifting and transport equipment; the expanding role of AI, remote monitoring, and smart technologies in industrial handling and logistics; new developments in operator training, safety systems, and compliance with evolving industry regulations; and strategies for mitigating supply chain disruptions to ensure efficiency in global equipment sourcing and distribution. A comprehensive lineup of seminars and panel discussions will provide valuable insights into the future of lifting, access, and heavy transport.
More than just business
Beyond the bustling exhibition floor, GIS 2025 will continue its tradition of celebrating industry excellence with the Italian Terminal and Logistics Awards (ITALA), Italian Access Platform Awards(ITALPLATFORM), and Italian Lifting & Transportation Awards (ILTA). In addition, the ever popular GIS by Night event will return on Friday 26th September, transforming the showground into a festival atmosphere with music, food, and entertainment. This after-hours event provides a relaxed setting for exhibitors to connect with clients and celebrate their achievements.
“GIS by Night is always a highlight,” Potestà said. “It’s a great opportunity for industry professionals to unwind and celebrate together.”
With its proven track record, strategic focus, and commitment to delivering a high-quality experience, GIS 2025 is set to be another landmark event for the lifting, access, and heavy transport industries. As the countdown begins, anticipation is high for a show that promises to set new benchmarks for success.
Find out more about exhibiting or register for your free visitor pass at gis-expo.it.
