The 76th European Film Market (EFM) returns to Berlin February 12–18, 2026, bringing together more than 11,500 industry professionals from 80+ countries across film, television, animation, and immersive media. As the industry moves into a phase defined by efficiency, recalibration, and smarter growth, EFM remains a critical space where deals begin, relationships deepen, and new models take shape.
What’s New at EFM 2026
EFM 2026 places a strong emphasis on innovation and future-ready workflows. Highlights include:
- EFM Animation Days, a new three-day platform for animation professionals
- A dedicated Immersive Zone at Gropius Bau showcasing VR and XR storytelling
- The debut of EFM Frontières Focus, supporting genre projects and new financing paths
- Continued growth of the EFM Startups Programme, spotlighting emerging media tech
- Morocco as Country in Focus, highlighting its expanding role in global production and co-financing
Getting Around the Market
Most market activity centers around Potsdamer Platz, primarily within:
- Gropius Bau & Pavilion
- Berlin Marriott Hotel
- Ritz-Carlton Berlin
EFM rewards smart logistics. Scheduling meetings in location-based blocks, factoring in winter weather, and using the free EFM shuttle or scooter rentals can save hours during peak days.
Market Reality: 2026 Industry Outlook
The global media industry has moved past disruption into disciplined execution. Key themes shaping the market:
- Streaming platforms prioritize profitability, churn reduction, and library optimization
- AVOD and FAST are now core revenue channels, not secondary strategies
- Independent distributors succeed through diversified revenue stacks, strong catalogs, and audience precision
- Operational efficiency has become a defining competitive advantage
In 2026, success favors companies that pair creative focus with lean, tech-enabled operations.
Five Ways to Get the Most Out of EFM
- Treat EFM as an ecosystem, not a single venue
- Stay open. Unexpected meetings often lead to the best outcomes
- Prepare year-round. Markets reinforce relationships, they don’t create them
- Time outreach carefully, ideally 3–4 weeks before the market
- Make time for Berlin. Energy management matters as much as scheduling
For First-Time Attendees
EFM unfolds in phases:
- Early days feel fast and overwhelming
- Mid-week is the most focused and productive
- Final days offer space for deeper conversations and new introductions
Knowing when to push and when to pause is key to avoiding burnout and maximizing impact.
Approaching Buyers
Standing out isn’t about aggressive pitching. It’s about:
- Smart timing and concise first meetings
- Targeting later market days for new relationships
- Delivering clear follow-ups quickly and professionally
EFM is fundamentally relationship-driven. Buyers look for clarity, organization, and long-term compatibility.
Beyond the Market
Berlin rewards curiosity. Short walks, museums, cafés, food markets, and neighborhoods like Prenzlauer Berg offer space to reset between meetings. Even small breaks can sharpen perspective and lead to better conversations.
How Molten Cloud Supports Market Success
Molten Cloud helps teams save up to 16 hours per week per person by streamlining market workflows:
- Centralized rights, royalties, and content management
- Instant avails, real-time screener tracking, and automated follow-ups
- Faster delivery and clearer post-market visibility
From prep to post-market execution, Molten Cloud removes friction so teams can focus on relationships, strategy, and revenue.
