The past three years have brought great uncertainty for retailers and their distribution channels. The 36th International Trade Fair for Retail Promotions and Imports will take place from March 4 to 6, 2024 and will pick up right where it left off with its exhibitors, as retailers need sales and new aggressively priced items to lure consumers into stores despite a reluctance to buy. Also in focus: AI for retailers and new e-commerce and sourcing strategies. The International Hardware Fair taking place at the same time at the Cologne exhibition center also promises further synergies.

Project manager Kerstin Manke also expects great interest in 2024. “We are facing a year of positive trends. After finally being able to use our full capacity again last year since the coronavirus pandemic, everyone involved has acquired a taste for meeting up in person again and not only discussing the latest industry developments, but also experiencing them. This will once again be ensured by numerous exhibitors who are coming from many countries to present their new products.”

Over 300 exhibitors are expected on an area of around 30,000 m² and more than 6,000 trade visitors. The infrastructure and organization of public traffic has been further optimized with a new hall constellation of Halls 6 and 7 as well as a compact circuit and transitions between the halls. With renowned speakers from the retail industry, the IAW once again promises to be an inspiring knowledge platform. Top-class presentations and discussions in the E-Commerce Arena will provide insights into the current challenges and future opportunities of retail, both online and stationary.

“Spring cure for retailers“
The trade fair is aimed at wholesalers, importers, manufacturers of promotional goods and trend articles from all retail categories as well as buyers from chain stores, discounters, specialty stores, DIY and home improvement stores, garden centers and online retailers. Promotional goods provide retailers with good sales and margins despite difficult times. At the trade fair in March, the focus will be on future topics such as AI, e-commerce and new sourcing strategies. “Positive impetus is particularly important in difficult times,” says Ulrich Zimmermann, Managing Director of the IAW trade fair. “And that’s exactly what we can provide in combination with a spring cure for the retail sector through the varied and inspiring program of the 36th IAW edition.”

About International Trade Fair for Retail Promotions and Imports (IAW)
International Trade Fair for Retail Promotions and Imports (IAW) is a leading trade fair in Germany, specifically for trade visitors from various sectors. It covers a wide range of product categories such as food, cosmetics, household goods, textiles and electronics. In addition to its role as an ordering platform, the IAW also acts as a trend barometer and networking platform, especially in the areas of e-commerce and private label. With a high-quality supporting program, including free workshops and lectures, it attracts an international audience. The positive development of the trade fair is reflected in rising exhibitor numbers and increased visitor quality, which underlines its growing importance in the retail sector. Further information and free tickets for trade visitors can be ordered at www.iaw-messe.de

International Trade Fair for Retail Promotions and Imports Beginning of March in Cologne (PDF)