The basis of the decision was a visitor and exhibitor survey which was conducted internationally in February. This showed that the proposed August dates were strongly preferred. The conclusion was reached in conjunction with the industry's decision-makers. "Such a decision-making process cannot be designed any more transparently," Stefan Lohrberg, Director Spoga+Gafa is convinced. Agreement with the solution which has now been found did not only come from Germany, but also from other European countries.
In addition to members of the EFSA (European floral and lifestyle suppliers association), names such as Fiskars, G.Wurm, Tel International, Hartman, Müsing, Old Com as well as other global BBQ companies have already confirmed their participation at Spoga+Gafa in August 2021. The partner associations BHB, BIAG (Barbecue Industry Association Grill), IVG (German Garden Industry Association) and VDG (German Garden Centre Association) will also be involved.
Because of the postponement, the exhibitors are, however, being given the option to withdraw from their contracts if they do so in writing within the next two weeks. In that case, any payments already made to Koelnmesse will be fully reimbursed. The deadline is 24 March 2021. The final decision, which will take any contract cancellations into account, is therefore expected only then.This year, as part of Koelnmesse's digitalisation strategy, Spoga+Gafa will be held as a hybrid event for the first time. The familiar, physical product presentation and networking formats will be supplemented by new, digital concepts, Koelnmesse has announced.