Clearly structured according to trading format, lifestyle and target group, Tendence 2019 focused more closely on the needs of customers. Despite a concurrent heatwave, over three days (29th June to 1st July), 603 exhibitors presented their latest products to some 15,000 visitors, from 80 countries – a decrease on last year's 17,736 attendees (then a four-day show).
The proportion of international buyers remained stable. After Germany, the top nations visiting were Switzerland, Italy, Austria, France, China, the Netherlands, Japan, Poland, Belgium, Vietnam and the UK. Visitor growth from Ireland and south-east Europe was particularly strong.
Organiser Messe Frankfurt, which shortened the fair's duration to three days at this edition, says that the fair’s new concept, events and presentations contributed to a positive mood among exhibitors and visitors.
“These modifications and the decision to adapt Tendence’s focus to retailers’ specific structures and needs have gained widespread acceptance among retailers during the event," says Stephan Kurzawski, a member of Messe Frankfurt Exhibition's management board. "This was the first important step towards gaining acceptance for the new concept, which allows us to offer a variety of stimulating ideas and useful aids for retailers – helping them to remain competitive. The launch of two new online platforms – Nextrade and Conzoom Solutions – also underlines how Messe Frankfurt plans to support retailers in the future as digitisation continues to play an ever-greater role in the industry.”
Meanwhile, special presentations such as the Tendence Academy, Paper & Friends, the Village, the EVL area and The Store offered visitors examples of best-practice approaches to business.
At Tendence 2019, Messe Frankfurt launched two new online platforms: international B2B marketplace Nextrade, and retailer content platform, Conzoom Solutions.
The next Tendence will take place from 4-6th July 2020.
