Oraganisers of Automechanika Frankfurt have announced the 2021 exhibition will be held as a once-only ‘Digital Plus’ format across 14 – 16 September.
In addition to a compact physical exhibition, Automechanika’s primary focus will be on offering all participants the opportunity to network and present their companies digitally.
Next year, the trade fair will return to its familiar format on the Frankfurt exhibition grounds from 13 to 17 September 2022.
Organisers have decided to change course regarding preparations for the first-ever hybrid Automechanika, at least for the physical exhibition.
Detlef Braun, Member of the Executive Board of Messe Frankfurt, explained: “As a result of the continuing difficulties posed by the pandemic, we will not be able to satisfy our customers’ expectations for a leading international trade fair this September. Not only does the event require official approvals, but it also has to be possible to travel internationally. Yet this does not change the automotive industry’s need for a platform where they can do business this year – and our customers and industry associations agree. That is why we decided to modify our concept for this year’s Automechanika: in keeping with the ‘plug-and-play’ principle, we are offering opportunities to exhibit and network in person on the exhibition grounds while keeping preparations, risks and costs to a minimum. Next year we plan to once again hold Automechanika Frankfurt in its familiar trade fair format. The event will take place from 13 to 17 September 2022.”
The concept aims to offer companies a range of presentation formats from which to choose, as well as various networking lounges where in-person business encounters can take place in accordance with the applicable coronavirus protection measures.
Companies that are unable to travel to Frankfurt due to travel restrictions can present their products on a digital platform, where they will also be able to meet and network with visitors digitally.
Messe Frankfurt informed its exhibitors in March of the expanded digital opportunities on offer that will aim to maximise exhibitors’ networking opportunities and international range. For the first time, exhibitors will have the chance to live stream their latest products and innovations. All participants will benefit from digital matchmaking and the scheduling tools, as well as facilities for live chats and 1:1 video calls. Most of the videos, as well as the exhibitors’ product information and company profiles, will remain online after the event has finished.
The exhibition will be centred around the Festhalle in the eastern part of the exhibition grounds. An innovation show, networking area and product promenade have also been planned.
Olaf Mußhoff, Director of Automechanika Frankfurt, said: “Even before COVID-19, there had been a lot of pressure on the car industry to change – to increase investment in digitalisation, in supply chains that are resilient and intelligent, and to develop further. Now the pandemic has made these concerns even more urgent. Some industry players have already responded to the new requirements with new business ideas, innovative concepts and solutions. I am already looking forward to all the fascinating presentations and discussions that will be taking place at Automechanika Academy in which visitors can participate on location and online via live stream.”
