Q1: You’ve been part of Conventa’s journey since the first edition. What does this 18-year milestone mean to you both professionally and personally?
Over the years, Conventa has become a fixture in the industry, and being part of this development is something special. On a personal level, it’s also a journey: you meet many long-time colleagues again and again, follow shared developments, and realise how much genuine networks support you – especially in challenging times.
Q2: How has your exhibiting approach evolved since your first Conventa?
Initially, the focus was heavily on visibility and information. Today, it’s much more about targeted conversations, clear positioning, and quality over quantity. We present ourselves more consciously, with clear messages and concrete starting points for collaborations.
Q3: What keeps you returning to live trade shows in an era dominated by digital tools and platforms?
Digital formats are efficient, but they don’t replace personal interaction. Trust, rapport, and genuine interest arise primarily through direct exchange.
Q4: In your view, how have destinations or suppliers changed the way they present themselves at exhibitions over the years?
The presentations are more personal, authentic, and value-oriented.
Q5: What does a “successful” trade show look like to you today? Has that definition changed over time?
Yes. In the past, it was primarily about making many contacts. Today, a trade fair is successful if it facilitates high-quality conversations, enables concrete follow-ups, and strengthens long-term relationships.
Q6: What’s been your key to building strong, long-term partnerships in this industry?
Reliability, honesty, and genuine interest in the other person’s needs. Long-term partnerships are not built on quick deals, but on continuous communication and mutual trust.
Q7: Can you share a moment at a trade show that had a lasting impact on you professionally or emotionally?
Yes, encounters that have led to stable collaborations over the years. Particularly formative are those moments when trust develops from an initial conversation – often unspectacular, but lasting.
Q8: How do you see the role of live exhibitions evolving in a world of AI, hybrid formats and fast-changing expectations?
Live trade fairs are becoming even more important as places for orientation, classification, and personal encounters. AI and digital tools support processes, but decisions and relationships remain human. Trade fairs are becoming more compact, targeted, and dialogue-oriented.
Q9: What does real, meaningful engagement look like for you today, beyond just collecting leads or handing out brochures?
Genuine interaction means listening, understanding, and speaking on equal terms.
Q10: How has your preparation for a trade show changed compared to 10 or 15 years ago? What do you do differently today?
Today, preparation is much more strategic. Appointments are planned strategically, content is clearly defined, and follow-up is considered from the outset.
Q11: What one piece of advice would you give to first-time exhibitors?
Be authentic and well-prepared. Quality beats quantity – and one genuine conversation is more valuable than ten superficial contacts.
Q12: What’s the most exciting opportunity you see for exhibitors in the near future?
The opportunity to clearly position oneself based on values, attitude, and quality. Those who know what they stand for will remain visible even in a dynamic market.
Q13: After all these years, what keeps you passionate about showing up not just physically, but with real energy and purpose?
The people. The exchange, the learning from each other, and the joy of developing something together.
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