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Preview: Paperworld
from OPI APP NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021 B
by OPI
Safety FIRST
PAPERWORLD 2022 PREVIEW
During a virtual press conference held in the middle of October, executives from Messe Frankfurt confirmed that Paperworld 2022 will be taking place at the end of January. The news marks a welcome return for the iconic stationery and office products trade fair following its enforced absence as an in-person event in 2021.
Naturally, the priority for Messe Frankfurt is the safety of all those who attend Paperworld and the team has developed detailed organisational, hygienic and medical measures. These include wider aisles and spaces throughout the showgrounds, a 100% fresh air ventilation system, intensive cleaning measures and a hygiene-adapted catering concept.
“We can ensure the all-important personal contact at our trade fairs with the necessary security,” said Philipp Ferger, VP of Consumer Goods Fairs at Messe Frankfurt. “After all, the need for personal encounters and physical exchange continues unabated in our sectors and we are pleased to be able to make this possible again.”
It is also essential that attendees prepare for their visit. Tickets must be purchased online prior to the event – no on-the-day admission will be allowed – and proof of complete vaccination, recovery from COVID-19 or a recent test result will be required.
As it stands, the wearing of masks will not be required on exhibitors’ booths – as opposed to upon entering the show, walking in aisles, etc – which will be welcomed by many. However, we all know how quickly things can change with COVID, so it is advisable to consult the Paperworld and German Federal Foreign Office websites for the latest information nearer the time (see below left).
SALES PUSH
Now that the green light has been given, it’s all hands on deck at the show organiser as the commercial team looks to make up for lost time. Normally by early November, more than 80% of floor space would be sold, but pandemic uncertainties have put the process back by several months.
Exhibitors such as Durable, edding, HSM, Navigator, Novus Dahle and Sigel have already confirmed their presence, and Messe Frankfurt is
Paperworld 2022 will be held 29 January to 1 February. For more information, visit www.paperworld. messefrankfurt. com and/or the German Foreign Office at www. auswaertiges-amt. de/en/visa-service/ EinreiseUndAufenthalt
currently doubling its efforts in the supplier community as the trade looks forward to being able to meet face to face again.
One positive is the easing of travel restrictions, both within Europe and – as of early November – between Europe and North America. Business trips to Germany to attend events are possible without having to quarantine. Nevertheless, the situation for visitors and exhibitors from the Fast East is more complicated, which could mean lower bookings in the International Sourcing section of the show and fewer attendees from Asia.
COMPLEMENTARY DIGITAL TOOLS
A distinct advantage for exhibitors is exclusive access to Messe Frankfurt’s digital offerings. And while the organiser is adamant that these solutions will not replace physical events, it has been developing complementary online tools for some years.
For Paperworld 2022, a digital networking platform will be available one week before the start of the show and stay open until 15 February. Online assets will also be accessible at no charge – next year at least – to all registered visitors.
New for 2022 is a Future of Work programme replacing the Future Office concept that has been held for a number of years. This will take place in Hall 3.0 and highlight changes to the ways of working which have been accelerated by COVID. It will feature a series of lectures and presentations, plus an expo and a networking area.
Last, but by no means least, sustainability will be in the spotlight again at Paperworld. Exhibitors can, for example, apply to be included in a programme called Special Interest Sustainability; the Future of Work will include presentations on eco-responsible purchasing and environmentally friendly solutions for the modern workplace; and Sustainable Office Day is moving to a more prominent location in Hall 3.0.
NEW SHOW DIRECTOR FOR PAPERWORLD
Paperworld 2022 is to have an interim Show Director after Eva Olbrich was appointed to take over from Bettina Bär in the middle of October. Bär had only been named to the role in July, but has now been put in charge of Messe Frankfurt’s textile shows Neonyt and Val:ue which will take place during Frankfurt Fashion Week in January.
In addition to her new responsibilities at Paperworld, Olbrich will continue as Director for both Christmasworld and Creativeworld.
Eva Olbrich
