IFRA World Publishing Expo aims to “explore all facets of print production from creating content to production and distribution” and is therefore aimed at all professionals and decision-makers in the industry. In addition to the exhibitor area, the start-up park is specifically dedicated to technological developments such as augmented reality, artificial intelligence, and automated content generation. New companies are given the opportunity to present their products in short pitches and network during speed dating. The Digital Advertising pavilion shines a spotlight on new methods of brand communication and advertising. Visitors can also take part in tours to printing works and publishing houses in the Berlin area.

This year, the Frankfurt Book Fair is celebrating its 70th birthday at which Georgia will be the guest country of honour. As a trading centre for publishing, technology, and the creative industries as well as a major cultural event with around 275,000 visitors a year, the fair is one of the most important meeting places for the industry in the world. New features include the Frankfurt Pavilion, a temporary building designed by the architectural firm Schneider and Schumacher, which is to serve as a central venue for events, exchange, and the Bookfest, which was founded in 2017. The Arts+ area in hall 4.1 will once again host developments in literature, culture, and creativity in the face of new technological possibilities and bring together stakeholders such as designers, politicians, economists, and representatives of cultural institutions with the aim to initiate discussions and to create synergies. Once again this year, form will be represented; you will find us in The Arts+ area at booth M83.

The first edition of the Biennale Interieur 50 years ago took place in the spirit of the 1968 movement. Back then, people wanted to rebel against the established idea of good design, break new ground, and involve the general public. Since then, the event has become a permanent fixture in the design landscape. In 2018, the event will be reduced to five days and more attention will be paid to the topics of business and entrepreneurship. Once again, the main venue is the Xpo congress centre. This year’s scenography was created by Studio Verter and is inspired by the basic functional principles of the urban space. The Biennale’s programme continues in the centre of Kortrijk, with a special venue being a former hospital. Again this year, The Floor Is Yours serves as a platform for young designers, new studios, collaborations, and universities.

As the “leading trade fair for the modern working world”, Orgatec is the contact point for all sectors involved in the furnishing and equipping of offices and properties. It is aimed at manufacturers, architects, interior designers, designers, traders, investors, and representatives of the real estate industry. The organisers claim not only to show products, but also to make a contribution to the working culture of the future. In various formats and areas, there will be discussions about promoting well-being and creativity through designing the working environment as well as new developments in technology and digitisation. The question of how the working world can protect and positively influence the health of its employees will also be examined. For the first time in 2018, the Start-up Corner will offer a presentation platform for start-ups from the architecture and construction industries.