News

Successful IFA business model drives the markets in 2009 (30/4/2009)

Registrations have equalled last year’s record figures – IFA’s status as a leading international event continues to grow among the media, trade and industry – product debuts and important industry topics such as ecology, lifestyle, HDTV & wireless communications the main features at IFA 2009 – trade visitors and the media can register as of now

IFA is aiming to equal last year’s records. Hall space close to the same amount reserved this time last year has now been rented out (99 %). Additional brands from the consumer electronics and home appliances industries will be represented at IFA for the first time in 2009. With orders superseding three billion euros at the last event IFA is a big attraction and an important barometer of the markets.

“IFA’s carefully tailored concept aimed at the requirements of exhibitors and trading partners, which has been continuously developed to suit market requirements and trends, has achieved positive results. IFA represents a unique foundation on which to base the long-term business success of industry and trade – particularly in times of crisis“, said Dr. Rainer Hecker, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of IFA’s organisers Gesellschaft für Unterhaltungs-und Kommunikationselektronik (gfu).

Dr. Christian Göke, Chief Operating Officer of Messe Berlin: “We have good reason to be confident that the industry will achieve the same high level of success at IFA 2009 as it did last year. In the face of market challenges, the industry’s exhibitors have proved to be reliable partners, side by side with the trade.”

IFA Director Jens Heithecker: “I am happy to say the number of bookings at IFA 2009 is impressive. Particularly now, we see a big opportunity to build on IFA’s standing within the markets. Newcomers and regular exhibitors who are making use of IFA as a new platform for networking and stimulating the markets can more than make up for individual losses. We see IFA being very successful.“

IFA’s status as a leading international event continues to grow among the media and industry

The IFA 2009 International Press Conference is proof that worldwide interest in the event continues to grow. 300 journalists from 45 countries as well as members of the international retail trade, industrial associations and exhibitors will be attending, underlining IFA’s international appeal. With attractive product presentations and podium discussions on the latest issues impacting the industry and markets IFA will be setting the tone for the industry and trade at this event.

Product debuts and important industry topics such as ecology, lifestyle, HDTV & wireless communications the main features at IFA 2009

For the second time, and with an even more comprehensive show, the leading brands of the consumer electronics and electrical home appliances industries will be jointly represented on the Berlin Exhibition Grounds at IFA 2009. Traditionally a large number of new technologies and products make their debut at IFA.

IFA Director Jens Heithecker: “In 2008 the industry took the IFA to pole position with a previously unmatched number of product debuts. IFA 2009 will be building on this.“

Dr. Rainer Hecker added: “High-quality, wide-ranging brand presentations will once again feature significantly at IFA 2009 in Berlin. The consumer electronics range of products covers the entire market. It includes innovative, flat-screen TVs, home cinema systems, high-resolution media and intelligent networking solutions, as well as all types of mobile devices. As regards electrical home appliances, the focus is on ease of use and health and wellness where fridges, washing machines, tumble driers, dishwashers, kitchen appliances, hairdriers and personal hygiene appliances are concerned. In both product sections an eco-friendly approach and using water and electricity in a responsible manner are at a premium.“

IFA is the meeting place of leading international companies from both industries. As the leading venue for doing business it moves markets, as it comprehensively serves and targets the structures of the wider trade. With its unique flair IFA provides the perfect setting for the ultimate experience of consumer electronics and home appliances brands. Thus IFA combines fascinating innovations and exciting entertainment with a show. What is more, Berlin is where media political decisions are made.

“IFA brings the markets together in a unique way. It provides an ideal platform for international retailers, buyers, consumers, the industry and the media. This autumn at IFA 2009 we will be sending out clear and positive signals to the economy“, Dr. Rainer Hecker continued.

TecWatch – the name says everything

The TWF has taken off in a new direction. In future, as the IFA TecWatch, it will be offering European research projects, developers from industry, international trade associations, as well as German research institutions and universities an exclusive platform for presenting product firsts. In 2009 the main topics will be devoted to assisted living, the personal home, innovative audio and smart interfaces. Thus TecWatch will without a doubt be the international attraction for technologically interested exhibitors, visitors, experts and the media.

Trade visitors and the media can register as of now

Starting in June, trade visitors can purchase their ticket to the IFA in comfort from the online ticket shop, at a reduced advance sales price. Alternatively, they can redeem a ticket voucher. The IFA ticket shop is open at www.ifa-berlin.com. Be it special travel packages, the Fast Lane, an exclusive reception area or leading specialist forums, starting now the IFA Website has information on special services for trade visitors coming to IFA.

As of now members of the media who can submit proof of their identity as journalists can register online under “Press” on the IFA website. Advance registrations will be accepted until 20 August 2009. Information available under “Press” on the IFA website includes press releases, press appointments with exhibitors at IFA and the organisers of IFA, innovations at IFA and press photos of IFA.

IFA website relaunched

A new and completely redesigned IFA website offering new services is now available. For example, the latest information on IFA 2009 can now be downloaded to a PDA. Easy navigation, user-friendly applications and speedy access to required information were the priorities during the website’s relaunch.

The new Download Centre is yet another, convenient service that is available. This gives a clear and concise overview of all the forms and graphics relating to IFA 2009. Using an easy-to-use search function, users can enter key words and topic headings to download data ranging from stand application forms, logos and banners for advertising, to information on communication services.

www.ifa-berlin.com