The interzum is on course: Koelnmesse is expecting around 1,500 exhibitors to the world’s leading trade fair in May 2013. Many renowned companies will be bringing interesting innovations with them that will be showcased publicly for the first time. Besides the latest products, the informative supporting programme means that it is well worth setting aside at least two days in Cologne.

The Koelnmesse got 2013 off to a blazing start with two major trade fairs, the IMM cologne and LivingKitchen. Now all eyes are expectantly turned towards the world’s leading trade fair interzum that from 13 to 16 May will turn Cologne into the focus for all materials and design-related subjects for furniture manufacturers and interior designers. We can already expect a very high level of innovation among the around 1,500 exhibitors on more than 155,000 square metres: As early as autumn last year, many manufacturers announced that they would not unveil their developments until the interzum.

Furthermore, the extensive and attractive supporting framework programme is certain to attract visitors to the interzum in Cologne; namely the expansive themed piazzas presented by each of the three product segments “Materials & Nature”, “Function & Components” and “Textile & Machinery”. On the “Materials & Nature” piazza in hall 6, real wood and décor are presented in a way that allows them to be experienced with all five senses. In the presentation area, speakers will be showcasing subjects like 3D printing, laser technology in edge processing, trendy décor colours or smart materials. In the superlative event area in hall 10.1 perfectly staged by the “Textile & Machinery” segment, the textile production line for the manufacturing of a car seat is recreated on some 4,500 square metres – including all required machinery. Last but not least, the “Function & Components” area plays host to the “innovation of interior” piazza specially devised for architects and designers. Its lounge and the special exhibition “Smart Materials” specifically target the needs of this visitor group.

The fourth “Innovation Workshop on Wood-based Materials” due to take place on 14 May 2013 in Koelnmesse’s Congress-Centrum Nord also provides interesting incentives. The four topic areas address the current situation in the timber products industry, procedural optimisations, protection of resources as well as special applications and new markets.

Frank Haubold, business area head for the trade fair management therefore recommends: “Countless world premieres, a really comprehensive and informative supporting programme and interesting workshops – any visitor wishing to benefit from all offers should definitely set aside at least two full days in Cologne for the trade fair.”

The amended interzum itinerary will almost certainly make scheduling easier: The 2013 trade fair will take place from Monday to Thursday, rather than starting on the Wednesday as in the past, and therefore does not happen over the weekend. In addition, Koelnmesse cooperates closely with Deutsche Messe AG from Hanover, the organisers of the Ligna. The leading trade fair for the wood processing and manufacturing industry will be held in the week prior to the interzum. Thanks to this coordinated scheduling, overseas guests will now be able to efficiently visit both trade fairs.

Source: Koelnmesse