Hardware fair shows its digital face

The International Hardware Fair, which takes place in Cologne from 21 to 24 February, will feature new theme platforms next year. An eCommerce area will showcase a wide range of innovative, disruptive business solutions and strategies covering payment, shop systems, ERP, hosting, search engine optimisation (SEO) and multichannel. Alongside expert talks and lectures, online giants such as Facebook, eBay and business providers such as Shopware will be present in the eCommerce area.
As part of Koelnmesse's digitalisation strategy, the 2021 Hardware Fair will be staged for the first time in a hybrid format. Physical product presentations and networking formats will be complemented by digital offerings. A hygiene concept will also be implemented: the organisers say that widening the aisles to five metres, ventilation systems and two additional halls should ensure maximum safety.
To date around 2 000 exhibitors have registered for the trade show. Koelnmesse regards the exhibitor response as a "clear expression of faith in physical trade shows".