News - "Light Scenario Lab" Debuts! The 2025 Guangzhou International Lighting Exhibition Grandly Opened

The 30th Guangzhou International Lighting Exhibition (GILE) officially opened on June 9 at the China Import and Export Fair Complex in Guangzhou. Marking its 30th anniversary, the exhibition ushers in a new era of lighting innovation by launching the “Illuminnovation Lab” — a year-long initiative designed to foster industry collaboration and drive technological breakthroughs. Breaking away from the traditional exhibition format, GILE now extends beyond its June 9–12 main event with a series of nationwide activities including focus group discussions, research forums, technical seminars, and business matchmaking events. These initiatives aim to create a forward-looking, diverse platform that promotes dialogue, sparks creativity, and accelerates the practical application of lighting technologies.

As a benchmark event in Asia’s lighting industry, the exhibition joins forces with the concurrent Guangzhou Electrical Building Technology (GEBT) fair, creating a powerful synergy. Together, the two shows span a total area of 250,000 square meters and attract 3,188 exhibitors from 20 countries and regions.

The exhibition comprehensively showcases innovations across the lighting industry chain, presenting the latest products and cutting-edge technologies from both the lighting and related sectors. It serves as an international platform that integrates business matchmaking, technical exchange, and trend forecasting — facilitating deep industry collaboration and global connectivity.

The continuous improvement in living standards has driven a profound transformation in consumer behavior. Beyond seeking higher “value-for-money” products — where quality is valued as much as price — consumers are increasingly focused on the experiential upgrade of “value-driven marketing.” The lighting market is undergoing a shift from mere product output to value creation, with a growing emphasis on refinement. This trend is fueling an urgent demand for innovative and precise lighting solutions tailored to niche sectors, diverse user groups, and richly layered application scenarios.

On the occasion of its 30th anniversary, GILE, in collaboration with Guangzhou Alighting IoT Network Technology Co., Ltd., launched the “Guangya Tour” annual event series. The pre-show activities have already begun ahead of the exhibition and will expand throughout the entire show period. Post-show events will continue across major cities nationwide, aiming to move forward hand in hand with the industry, foster innovation through collaboration, and promote new lighting concepts.

Under the strategic guidance of bold advancement, technological innovation, concept-driven development, and brand empowerment, the “Guangya Tour” is set to ignite a wave of innovation in the lighting industry. It will serve as a dynamic R&D platform, accelerating the industry’s transformation from traditional manufacturing to a value-driven and innovation-centered model. GILE will continue to act as a powerful hub, fostering communication, boosting sales, and creating new opportunities for cross-border collaboration.

Illuminnovation Lab: Vision and Objectives

As a pioneering initiative in the lighting industry, the Illuminnovation Lab features six thematic sub-labs focused on exploring the dynamic interaction between light, space, and people. GILE brings together innovation forces across the entire lighting value chain and cross-disciplinary practitioners—including end users, industry opinion leaders, architects, designers, installers, system integrators, distributors, and associations—for in-depth collaboration within these labs.

The Illuminnovation Lab will debut at the 2025 Guangzhou International Lighting Exhibition and continue to expand across various cities nationwide from 2025 to 2026 through a series of targeted events.

“Guangya Action” aims to inspire the lighting industry to reflect on its innovation pathways and significantly enhance lighting quality. The initiative focuses on developing cutting-edge solutions that improve user experience and foster closer collaboration among industry stakeholders.

GILE is committed to achieving three core goals: driving breakthroughs in lighting quality and energy efficiency, formulating industry empowerment strategies that adapt to evolving consumer demands, and promoting the seamless integration of lighting technologies into everyday life scenarios.

At the same time, the initiative seeks to build a robust cross-industry network, establish a shared database of groundbreaking research, and encourage collective contributions from diverse participants—nurturing a more dynamic, responsive, and vibrant lighting market.

Illuminnovation Lab: Experimental Theme – Light of Life

Lighting profoundly shapes how people perceive and experience the world—not only impacting comfort but also contributing to a sense of safety. Our understanding of space is largely visual, and the quality of light is a key factor influencing that experience. The effects of lighting reach beyond conscious perception, influencing our subconscious and even physiological states.

In this experimental lab, participants will explore the dynamic interaction between lighting, people, and spaces through six key dimensions: Psychological impact, physiological response, safety perception, sustainability, aesthetic value, and functional performance. This multidisciplinary approach aims to uncover how lighting can elevate the human experience on multiple levels.

Psychological Impact

Lighting significantly influences human emotions, cognition, and mental well-being. Exposure to cool-toned blue light during the day enhances alertness and concentration, while warm, soft lighting at night stimulates melatonin production, promoting restful sleep.Innovative applications of lighting are emerging in therapeutic contexts—for instance, red and near-infrared light have shown potential in alleviating pain, and SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder) lamps are used to combat depression.

"Emotional lighting" systems that adapt colors based on mood offer more personalized and uplifting environments. In essence, lighting has a profound psychological impact, reshaping daily experiences and contributing to overall health and happiness.

Physiological Health

Lighting quality plays a crucial role in eye health and visual comfort, directly affecting eye strain, visual clarity, and long-term ocular well-being. Poor lighting conditions can lead to discomfort and visual fatigue, making it essential to provide sufficient and well-balanced illumination to reduce eye strain.

Moreover, light is the primary regulator of the human circadian rhythm—acting like a biological clock that governs our sleep-wake cycles. Proper lighting supports healthy sleep patterns and overall physiological balance, reinforcing its vital role in maintaining well-being.

Safety and Injury Prevention

Effective lighting design is a key guardian of accident prevention and overall safety. In urban areas, motion-sensor lighting not only deters criminal activity but also creates a safer environment for residents and visitors. Aging-friendly lighting solutions—such as motion-activated night lights and anti-glare pathway lighting—significantly reduce the risk of falls and injuries.

Furthermore, emergency lighting systems in public venues like theaters and hospitals illuminate safe evacuation routes during power outages or emergencies. Thoughtful and precise lighting design helps build a safer environment and effectively minimizes potential hazards.

Sustainability

Green lighting plays a vital role in environmental protection and is key to energy consumption and resource management, helping reduce the carbon footprint. Innovative technologies like solar lighting and Li-Fi systems further reduce dependence on fossil fuels, paving the way for a cleaner energy future.

Integrated smart systems—such as motion sensors, adaptive dimming, and IoT connectivity—maximize energy efficiency in buildings and urban spaces by minimizing waste. Prioritizing sustainable lighting practices ensures a more resilient and livable environment for future generations.

Aesthetic Value

Lighting serves as a powerful medium for shaping visual appeal and expressing cultural identity. From biophilic designs that integrate natural elements, to retro aesthetics and sculptural chandeliers that act as focal points, contemporary lighting trends reflect personal taste and cultural refinement. Aesthetics in lighting not only enhance visual beauty but also convey deeper meaning and emotional resonance across different environments, creating spaces that inspire connection and delight.

Functional Lighting

Lighting ensures barrier-free access and optimal usability across various spaces. Through functional lighting, environments are created to be practical, convenient, and safe for all users.

Light Scenario Lab: A Landmark Trend for the New Era of the Lighting Industry

— Six Specialized Laboratories —

Ⅰ. City Lab Urban Laboratory Discussion Themes: Urban renewal, green public space planning, 15-minute city, smart cities

The future value transformation of street lighting

Road lighting is poised for a significant transformation, advancing both urban functionality and sustainability.

First, streetlights will evolve from mere “energy-consuming devices” into “urban service nodes,” becoming multifunctional smart city terminals that integrate energy, data, and safety functions. As such, they will act as neural endpoints of the smart city network, forming a complex infrastructure hub. Second, road lighting will shift from “standardized illumination” to “context-aware services.”

Powered by AI, lighting systems will dynamically respond to pedestrians, vehicles, and environmental conditions to deliver optimized solutions that balance safety and efficiency. Finally, road lighting will move from being a “cost center” to a “sustainable investment.” By enhancing full lifecycle carbon management, it will generate both environmental and economic value. Together, these transitions will lead to smarter, safer, and more sustainable urban environments.

Key Trends Explored in the City Lab:

· Integrated Energy Systems (Smart Streetlights with PV, Storage & Charging): Multi-energy hybrid streetlights that combine solar power generation, energy storage, and EV charging.

· AI-Powered Intelligent Road Lighting: Fully perceptive AI systems that enable adaptive lighting management across road networks.

· Vehicle-to-Infrastructure (V2I) Lighting Collaboration: "Light Follows Vehicle" systems that dynamically adjust lighting based on real-time traffic flow.

The Future Value Transformation of Architectural Lighting

Architectural lighting is shifting toward greater sustainability and well-being. The integration of Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) and flexible power distribution enables on-site energy generation and efficient usage within buildings, supporting the ongoing energy transition. Moreover, the alignment with ultra-low energy building standards and carbon emission benchmarks is driving demand for lighting solutions that are both innovative and eco-friendly.

Beyond energy efficiency, architectural lighting enhances occupant health through daylight modulation and human-centric visual design, creating healthier indoor environments. When these elements are harmoniously integrated, lighting not only elevates a building’s aesthetic and functional value but also contributes to a more sustainable and wellness-focused future.

The City Lab will focus on the following key trends:

· Dynamic Lighting & Building Data: Integration with real-time data such as traffic flow, weather, and time to enable responsive urban lighting systems.

· Sustainable Lighting: Adoption of zero-carbon lighting systems and circular design principles—modular luminaires designed for easy recycling and future upgrades.

· Emotive Lighting Algorithms: Adaptive systems that adjust color temperature and brightness based on users’ emotional or physiological states, enhancing healing and wellness spaces.

Ⅱ. Tourism LabDiscussion Themes: Hyper-personalized Travel, Multi-sensory Tourism, Night Tourism, Tranquil Retreats, Intangible Cultural Heritage Tourism

The Future Value Transformation of Tourism Lighting

The 2025 landscape of cultural and tourism lighting is defined by the seamless integration of technology, sustainability, and cultural authenticity. From AR-enhanced historical sites to solar-powered eco-resorts, lighting has transcended mere functionality to become a vibrant medium for storytelling, heritage preservation, and emotional connection. Destinations embracing this trend not only offer immersive experiences but also foster meaningful and responsible engagement with global heritage.

The Tourism Lab Will Explore the Following Key Trends:

Immersive Lighting Experiences with AR/VR Integration: Pop-up art installations, historical scene re-creations, and indigenous storytelling through light and shadow.

Contextual and Dynamic Lighting that Recreates Authentic Scenes: Customized lighting solutions that enrich cultural narratives and local traditions.

Technology-Driven Personalization: Interactive controls and AI-powered scene generation for tailored visitor experiences.

Ⅲ. Hotel LabDiscussion Themes: Personalized Spaces, Home Away from Home, Biophilic Design, Creative Luxury, Beyond Wellness, Guest-Centered, Technology/Smart Solutions

Future Value Transformation of Hotel Lighting

The hotel industry is driving lighting innovation to become a powerful catalyst for creating immersive emotional experiences while promoting sustainability and technological advancement. This dynamic interaction fosters a harmonious balance between emotional depth, environmental stewardship, and cutting-edge innovation. From intelligent systems that sensitively respond to guest needs to eco-friendly designs rooted in local traditions, lighting is reshaping the essence of spaces, enhancing their functional value, and inspiring limitless creativity.

The Hotel Lab will focus on the following key trends:

· Memorable multisensory lighting design: Lighting as a vital part of emotional storytelling.

· Sustainable solutions: Eco-friendly practices.

· Personalized technology: Integration of IoT.

· Health-focused lighting: Healing light recipes, soft diffusion, and acoustic lighting.

· Artistic lighting: Bold aesthetic styles and artistic expressions.

Ⅳ. Health LabDiscussion Themes: Biophilic Design, Natural Elements, Light and Sound Optimization, Aging-Friendly Design

The future value transformation of health lighting

Integrating circadian rhythm–aligned lighting into spaces is no longer just a trend but a comprehensive commitment to enhancing physical and mental well-being. Cutting-edge lighting technologies enable fixtures to mimic natural sunlight and deliver unprecedented health benefits through LED solutions. By leveraging dynamic lighting with color temperatures that change throughout the day and innovative technologies, lighting experts are leading a powerful movement toward better health.

The Health Lab will focus on the following key trends:

Healthy “Light Recipes”.

· Emotional Spectrum Lighting: Light therapy and mood-enhancing systems.

· Spectral Control: Simulating natural light through color temperature adjustment.

· Health Data Measurement: IoT algorithms that automatically adjust lighting based on user behavior and environment.

· Age-friendly Lighting: Prioritizing safety, visual comfort, and circadian rhythm support.

Ⅴ. Home LabDiscussion Themes: Technology and sensory design, natural elements, personalized customization, health and safety, experiential minimalism, eco-friendly design, wabi-sabi aesthetics

Future Value Transformation of Residential Lighting

The fusion of sustainability, technology, and artistic innovation is shaping the landscape of residential lighting. By 2025, lighting will transcend mere functionality to become a vital medium for practicing sustainable concepts, enhancing physical and mental well-being, and expressing personal identity.

This transformation is especially evident in lighting design trends: organic shapes, eco-friendly materials, and minimalist aesthetics are becoming increasingly prominent. Lamps embracing biophilic design—incorporating natural textures and forms—are gaining popularity, while multifunctional designs seamlessly blend with various décor styles.

Additionally, residential lighting is evolving toward integration with smart home systems, adapting to individual lifestyles, enhancing energy efficiency, and offering personalized lighting experiences. These innovations empower homeowners to easily tailor their spaces according to mood and values, balancing beauty and functionality.

The Home Lab will focus on the following key trends:

· Organic and biophilic lighting fixtures — designs increasingly inspired by nature

· Sustainability-driven innovation — mainstream LED, recycled materials, solar integration

· Smart lighting systems — enhanced system intelligence and user-centric features through energy efficiency, IoT integration, and AI advancements

· Artistic expression and custom creations — sculptural fixtures and bespoke designs

· Physical and mental well-being with emotional resonance — “light therapy formulas” and mood-enhancing algorithms

Ⅵ. Retail LabDiscussion Themes: Biophilic design, sustainability, flexible layouts, sensory engagement, seamless in-store experiences driven by technology, and personalized retail experiences

Future Value Transformation of Retail Lighting

The future of retail lighting will be defined by the powerful synergy of technology, sustainability, and immersive experiences. Through AI-driven adaptability and captivating scene setting, lighting will become a key element in transforming how customers engage with brands.

Retailers embracing this trend can significantly reduce operating costs while creating memorable and emotionally engaging shopping environments. Retail lighting is evolving from basic functional illumination to a strategic driver that enhances customer engagement, optimizes energy efficiency, and delivers immersive brand experiences.

Retail Lab will focus on these key trends:

· New consumer groups: creating engaging, interactive authentic experiences for Millennials and Gen Z

· Experiential retail: interactive lighting experiences

· Sustainability-driven solutions: smart lighting systems and high-efficiency fixtures

· Unique customer shopping experiences: bold and colorful lighting designs

· Human-centered, health-conscious design: glare-free lighting, mood-enhancing systems, and age-friendly design

· Minimalist aesthetics and functional flexibility

Smart Lighting

· Contextual intelligent light control: Minimalist automated scene lighting solutions

· AI-driven dynamic lighting: Adaptive lighting through real-time data analysis

· Seamless interaction: Gesture control and radar sensors replacing traditional switches

· Smart low-carbon solutions: Energy-efficient dimming aligned with green building standards

Core Competitive Advantages

· Smart lighting as a gateway: Building spatial intelligence and data-driven services

· Human-Centric Lighting (HCL): Circadian rhythm-aligned lighting for health and well-being

Core Competitive Advantages

· Smart lighting as a gateway: Building spatial intelligence and data-driven services

· Human-Centric Lighting (HCL): Circadian rhythm-aligned lighting for health and well-being

Extended Lighting Scenarios

· Residential Lighting: Automated energy-saving, ambient mood lighting, integration with media systems

· Commercial Spaces: Dynamic lighting for events, accurate color rendering, social media-friendly environments

· Hotel Environments: Customizable experiences, modular designs, eco-conscious solutions

· Healthcare Settings: Red light therapy and health-centered architectural integration

· Data Value: Optimize spatial design through user behavior analytics

The “Guangya Expedition” series aims to establish a new benchmark for the lighting industry through strategies driven by technology, guided by forward-thinking concepts, and empowered by branding. This initiative will feature roundtable discussions, product showcases, media campaigns, and corporate promotions, creating a dynamic R&D platform to support the industry's transformation from traditional manufacturing to a value-driven and innovation-oriented model.

Over the next two years, the initiative will focus on the following key areas:

Roadway Lighting

Roadway lighting will evolve into a vital component of smart cities, integrating energy, data, and safety functions to serve as intelligent service nodes within urban infrastructure networks. Powered by AI, future roadway lighting systems will dynamically respond to the needs of pedestrians, vehicles, and environmental conditions, enabling more efficient and personalized solutions. In addition, sustainable design will emphasize lifecycle carbon management, delivering both environmental and economic benefits.

Architectural Lighting

Architectural lighting will prioritize energy efficiency, sustainability, and user well-being. Buildings will integrate renewable energy systems, zero-carbon design principles, and modular luminaires that are easy to recycle. Dynamic lighting will adapt to variables like weather, time of day, and foot traffic. Human-centric design will allow lighting to respond to users’ emotional and physical needs, creating healthier and more therapeutic environments.

Cultural and Tourism Lighting

Tourism lighting will blend traditional cultural elements with modern technology to enhance both cultural interpretation and visitor experience. Immersive spaces and digital systems will engage tourists interactively, fostering storytelling and creating social media–friendly environments that inspire sharing and attract new visitors.

Smart Lighting

Smart lighting will use gesture control, radar sensors, and AI-powered systems to adjust brightness and color based on user needs, enhancing comfort and wellness. These energy-saving solutions—such as intelligent dimming—comply with green building standards and continue to evolve in functionality.

Health Lighting

Health-oriented lighting will simulate natural daylight and adapt to behavioral patterns to support emotional and physical health. Smart systems will automatically tune lighting in response to the environment and user routines. Age-friendly designs will focus on safety, visual comfort, and circadian rhythm support, addressing the needs of an aging population.

Lighting Applications

Lighting will add value across various spaces—residential, commercial, hospitality, and healthcare. In homes, energy-saving and mood-enhancing lighting will create comfort. Commercial spaces will benefit from dynamic lighting that adapts to activities and boosts engagement. Hotels will use customized, sustainable lighting designs to elevate guest experiences. In healthcare, therapeutic lighting will support recovery and emotional comfort. Moreover, lighting data will help optimize spatial design and performance across all these sectors.

Mr. Hu Zhongshun, General Manager of Guangzhou Guangya Messe Frankfurt Co., Ltd., shared his vision for the future of GILE:

“The launch of the ‘GILE Light Journey’ marks a significant milestone for the lighting industry. This initiative embodies progress and collaboration, and reflects GILE’s unwavering commitment to pushing boundaries and reaching new heights in lighting innovation. This year’s exhibition will continue to carry forward this spirit of development, firmly embracing both challenges and opportunities. We will uphold the principles of openness, cooperation, and mutual benefit, and work hand in hand with industry peers to create a brighter future for the lighting sector.”