Craft Focus - Jun/Jul (Issue 67)

FACTS & FIGURES • 423 exhibitors from 45 countries • 73 per cent from abroad • 16,000 visitors • 38 per cent foreign trade visitors VIEW FROM THE TOP Katharine C. Hamma, chief operating officer at Koelnmesse GmbH, shares her thoughts on this year’s event Was h+h cologne 2018 a success? Yes, it was a big success, and we were able to match last year’s record result. Furthermore, the level of international trade visitors was equally high, while the standard of decision- making attendees was also praised. The top industry decision- makers regularly visit h+h, and as such, the trade fair confirmed its outstanding position as the place to do business. Were there any particular highlights? In addition to our big trend fashion show, organised by Initiative Handbeit, there was the show’s event and workshop programme, which once again focused on the specialist needs of the international trade. With its star-studded cast, our event area, ‘my lovely living room’, was also a guaranteed success. This year, the motto was ‘around the world in three days’, and looked at handicrafts from around the world, as well as ways in which the industry is connected. There was also a range of exciting trend talks, as well as lectures on successful customer loyalty tools and new business strategies. All our visitors were able to find something to push them forward, from new ways to use social media to marketing new handicraft techniques and tips on successful shop window design. Why should buyers and wholesalers visit next year’s show? Next year, once again, h+h cologne will offer trade visitors a comprehensive view of the entire textile and handicraft industry. No other event brings the international world of creative crafts together in one show to this extent. Here, the emphasis lies above all on the word ‘international’, and the success of the show is rooted in our exhibitors’ readiness to export. The fair is the ideal platform to spot the latest trends, make new contacts and engage in important networking. show review craft focus 43