Monday, July 1, 2024
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Koelnmesse is celebrating its centennial anniversary with the grand opening of Confex, Europe’s most advanced event and congress center. This new building represents a significant milestone, offering cutting-edge technological and environmental features that enable innovative event formats in the region. The opening marks the completion of a core element of the €1 billion Koelnmesse 3.0 investment program, following nearly three years of construction.
“For 100 years, Koelnmesse has been a center for ideas and innovations from all over the world. Confex will secure this special position for the next generation,” said NRW Minister-President Hendrik Wüst during the opening ceremony. He emphasized Koelnmesse’s importance as a business hub in North Rhine-Westphalia, providing a platform for global networking and market expansion. The new center not only adds economic value to the region but also enhances its innovative capacity and international reputation.
The Confex building, covering 20,500 square meters, features the versatile Confex Hall, which can accommodate up to 4,300 people and be divided into three sections. Additionally, it includes two conference levels with 22 rooms of varying sizes, ranging from 27 to 205 square meters, ideal for diverse event formats. The light-filled foyer and the 5,600 square meter open-air terrace, Confex Plaza, provide ample space for receptions and side events. Confex is seamlessly connected to other Koelnmesse facilities, allowing for additional capacity as needed.
“With the new opening, Koelnmesse is closing a gap in our trade fair infrastructure. Confex will draw entirely new events and target groups to Cologne, making it an especially attractive venue for congresses and hybrid events for over 6,000 guests,” said Henriette Reker, Mayor of Cologne and Chairwoman of the Supervisory Board of Koelnmesse. Designed by JSWD architects, the new three-storey building blends seamlessly with existing structures and the city’s Rheinpark.
Gerald Böse, CEO of Koelnmesse GmbH, highlighted that Confex represents a significant enhancement for Koelnmesse’s future positioning. “The new location supports flexibility, efficiency, and emotional appeal, which are crucial for the future of the trade fair industry,” he said.
Confex aligns with Koelnmesse’s commitment to sustainable and resource-conserving design. The building received Platinum pre-certification from the German Sustainable Building Council (DGNB) during construction, showcasing its adherence to high environmental standards. Architect Jürgen Steffens from JSWD emphasized that the building’s design reflects both social and technological advancements, with a focus on sustainability and digital networking.
Koelnmesse’s 100-year journey began in 1924, initiated by Konrad Adenauer, and has evolved into a global hub for innovation and international cooperation. The opening of Confex is a testament to its ongoing commitment to connecting people, companies, and nations. The anniversary celebrations, themed “Yesterday | Today | Tomorrow — Koelnmesse connects,” will feature multimedia presentations, culinary delights from TV celebrity chef Johann Lafer, and a reflection on the trade fair’s storied history and bright future.
Confex is set to host its first events in summer 2024, with bookings already extending through 2029, including the UFI Global Congress in November 2024. As Koelnmesse continues to innovate and expand, Confex stands as a beacon of its commitment to sustainable growth and international collaboration.
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Tags: Cologne trade fair, Confex opening, cutting-edge event center, innovative event formats, JSWD architecture, Koelnmesse 100th anniversary, NRW business hub, sustainable congress center
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