Craft Focus - Jun/Jul (Issue 67)

With 16,000 visitors from 73 countries, this year’s h+h cologne was a celebration of handicrafts from around the globe Taking place over three days in March, this year’s h+h cologne achieved a record result, with 16,000 visitors from 73 different countries passing through its doors. A high number of orders was reported by the 423 exhibiting companies, and the quality of international trade visitors was also remarked upon. Around 38 per cent of trade attendees were visiting from abroad, while 78 per cent said they have significant influence on procurement decisions within their companies. “The industry’s most important decision-makers from all over the world don’t come together in this quality at any other event,” explains Katharina C. Hamma, Chief Operating Officer at Koelnmesse GmbH. “As such, h+h cologne has confirmed its outstanding position.” The Initiative Handarbeit Association unveiled its latest Handicraft Usage Behaviour report at the show, which revealed that the overall German craft market for 2017 was estimated to be worth €1.22 billion, measured in end consumer prices. The market volume also remains at a high level, a slight drop from €1.25 billion in 2016. CHANGING TRENDS A representative survey recently carried out by GfK Nuremberg also revealed that the craft scene in Germany has changed significantly in recent years, becoming younger, more fashionable and increasingly diverse. This trend was apparent at h+h cologne, with visitors praising the young, dynamic and fresh appearance of this year’s offer. “Many companies demonstrated that they crafting the future SAVE THE DATE h+h cologne 2019 29 th – 31 st March hh-cologne.com have adapted their products and services perfectly to match the changing market environment,” says Hedi Ehlen, Chairman of the Trade Fair Committee of Initiative Handarbeit. “The industry and the bricks- and-mortar trade have to cooperate closely together and provide DIY fans with innovative inspirations and impulses. Accordingly, the Initiative Handarbeit has already introduced offers to its programme to support the specialised trade with future sales and marketing campaigns.” MADE IN BRITAIN A number of British companies exhibited at this year’s event, including Dannells, which showcased its range of lampshade making and wall art kits. Also in attendance was The Chester Wool Company, suppliers of undyed yarns for hand-dye artists, as well as The Daylight Company, purveyors of speciality lighting. Wool supplier, King Cole, was also on hand to unveil its range of 11 new yarns for the 2018/2019 season. Next year’s show will take place from 29 th to 31 st March, 2019, and will feature presentations on new trends, creative workshops and a fashion show, offering plenty of inspiration for visitors. Go to hh- cologne.com for more information. 42 craft focus