Frankfurt Rights Meeting 2026: Rights Then. Rights Now.
For 40 years, the Frankfurt Rights Meeting has been the hallmark conference for the rights and licensing community.
This year, attendees can expect a hybrid format with insights into current topics and trends in four digital sessions in September 2026, followed by an exclusive networking reception with a keynote speech on the exhibition grounds (Dialogue Stage, entry from foyer hall 4.0) on Tuesday, 6 October 2026, before the start of the fair.
A September Full of Insight
The 2026 edition will begin with four virtual sessions on Tuesdays from September 1 to 22
(4–5pm CEST), each focusing on a different aspect of the rapidly evolving rights landscape.
September 1 | AI in Rights: Where Are We Now?
Artificial Intelligence continues to reshape the publishing landscape at pace. The session will deliver a timely update on the latest legal developments and lawsuits and will explore how the industry is responding to an increasingly complex environment. Beyond the legal landscape, we'll take a practical look at how AI is already making its way into rights workflows and highlight what is out there that might make your life easier. Join us for an essential update for anyone navigating the intersection of AI, rights, and publishing.
September 8 | Parlez-vous Français? Navigating the French-Language Publishing Markets
France is one of the world's most important publishing markets… and a complex one to navigate for rights sellers. This session offers an overview of the French market as well as other key French-speaking territories, exploring what is selling right now and why and taking stock of where key sectors — including audio, academic, and non-fiction — stand today. With insights from rights experts, we will also explore practical pathways into the market, from understanding how to approach French editors effectively to navigating its distinctive publishing culture.
September 15 | Children's Books Growing Up: Rights Selling in a Changing Landscape
Children's and YA publishing is evolving rapidly. Keeping pace with its many moving parts is essential for rights sellers, but no small feat. This session takes a closer look at a sector that spans a wide range of very different segments — from picture books to Young Adult — and discusses how to position and sell across them effectively. We'll also examine the broader shifts reshaping how young audiences consume content, as the lines between media, formats and entertainment continue to blur. With an eye on key markets and emerging trends, we'll discuss what these changes mean in practice for rights sellers.
September 22 | Breaking the 3%? Selling into English-Language Publishing Markets
We all know the stat: “Only around 3% of books published in English are translations.” But are they really? Breaking into the English-language market remains one of the most coveted goals for rights sellers worldwide, and there are signs that it may be opening up. This session offers an overview of the U.S. and U.K. markets, exploring current trends and practical pathways in, from navigating submission processes to understanding acquisition timelines. We'll also reflect on what selling into English really means and why a successful deal can be about more than just the economics. A session designed to help you approach these markets with greater confidence.
October 6 | 5-7PM CEST | In-Person Reception & Keynote in Frankfurt:
Rights Then. Rights Now.: The Role of Rights Professionals in Changing World
As the Frankfurt Rights Meeting celebrates 40 years, what better moment to reflect on how the role of rights professionals has evolved across changing global markets? This session brings together voices from across four decades of rights selling, each with a unique perspective on the challenges, opportunities and transformations that have shaped the profession. From the pre-digital era to the age of AI, our panelists will reflect on the moments that defined their careers, the shifts that changed the rules of the game, and what it means to work in rights today, and what may lie ahead.
Join us afterwards to celebrate the occasion over drinks, snacks, and dedicated networking time! Meet new contacts, strengthen old acquaintances, and discuss current industry developments at this exclusive networking reception.
Join the Global Conversation
Whether you’re a rights manager, literary agent, licensing expert, or digital strategist, the Frankfurt Rights Meeting will provide you with the tools necessary to thrive in a fast-changing market. Registration is now open. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the conversation shaping the future of international rights and licensing. Book your ticket today!
Special Offer for BISG Members:
As a BISG member, you will receive an exclusive 10% discount on your ticket. Simply enter the code FRM2026_BISG during checkout to receive your discount.