The International Hardware Fair in Cologne, which concluded yesterday, once again managed to significantly increase the number of visitors. As Koelnmesse said in its post-trade fair report, the four-day event attracted around 38,000 trade visitors “despite various warnings regarding short- and long-distance transport.” . The proportion of trade visitors from abroad was 70 percent. The 2018 hardware fair, the last held before the coronavirus pandemic, had about 47,000 visitors, while the fall 2022 special edition counted about 25,000 visitors.
The number of exhibitors also increased significantly. In 2022 there were 1,400 exhibitors in Cologne, in 2018 there were 2,770 exhibitors, and in 2024 Cologne will attract more than 3,200 exhibitors from 54 countries. Ta.
This year, the world's leading hardware industry trade show has returned to its normal rhythm. The next hardware fair will be held in two years' time from March 3 to March 6, 2026, but after that it will be held on a new date: Tuesday to Friday.
In collaboration with the Home & Garden Manufacturers Association (HHG), the Hardware Fair showcased DIY Boulevard, which grew again this year. The 255-meter-long presentation area with 58 participating companies was fully booked even before the event began. At the site, the manufacturer had the opportunity to introduce the product in his POS-related environment. Exhibition visitors were able to experience authentic product presentations.
“We are very happy with Eisenwarenmesse – International Hardware Fair 2024. Our support program went very well and all of our exhibiting companies praised the high quality of our visitors.” said Oliver Frese, Managing Director and COO of Koelnmesse GmbH. “The trade fair confirmed its relevance as an important meeting place for industry trends and product innovation, especially in the format of the popular Eisen Awards.The positive response and the return of many companies “This confirms that the March dates fit perfectly into the 2016 innovation cycle for the industry,” Frese added.