The introduction to Antwerp Design Week was celebrated with an evening at 'Het Steen' in Antwerp on March 27th. Chairman Geert-Jan Van Cauwelaert gave insights into the upcoming edition. The iconic building where the event took place, located in the heart of Antwerp, symbolises the city's tolerant trading spirit through the centuries, as was later explained by Antwerp city guide Tanguy Ottomer. 'We are standing in the heart of Antwerp,' he told his audience. It is no coincidence that the organisation has chosen this location as the meeting point for the upcoming edition, where companies active in the interior industry in the field of design and decoration will open their doors for six consecutive days.
The evening began with a warm welcome from Geert-Jan Van Cauwelaert to all invitees (especially participants and partners), where Emma Van Beckevoort, ADW's chief organiser, also spoke and shared interesting information. On April 1, a digital platform will go live where customers can log in and exchange information.
Over 50 companies
Reflecting on last year's success, with 31 companies, Geert-Jan Van Cauwelaert emphasised the impressive growth of ADW. This year, the organisation welcomes more than 50 companies, including young creatives. They can be found at 29 locations spread across five districts from June 2 to 7. 'The expectation is that by 2025, this number will double to more than 100 companies. This growth is aimed at attracting quality companies to keep the offering for visitors challenging and interesting.'
Design community
ADW's ambition goes beyond just growth; the aim is to become a major player, where even politics will have to take into account the interests of this design community. Geert-Jan Van Cauwelaert emphasised the importance of a strong community and advocated for incorporating the ADW project into the policy of the City of Antwerp for the next legislative term.
The evening also offered a preview of what visitors can expect during ADW, with the announcement of "De Club", which serves as the central meeting point during the event. This space will act as the starting and ending point for visitors, where they can not only get information about the participating companies (all participants are scenographically presented), but also enjoy a range of activities and Antwerp specialties. 'Foreign visitors stayed an average of three days in the city during Antwerp Design Week last year.'
This year, the organisation is focusing more than ever on logistics. It will be made as easy as possible for visitors to get from point A to point B. Shuttle transport in the form of Polestar importer cars and taxi companies will be deployed in the city. Additionally, Velo passes will be provided for hopping on the city bike.
Crucial message
Finally, the chairman had a crucial message. 'From now on, it is essential that we all work together to attract as many interesting customers as possible to Antwerp Design Week. If every company does its utmost, this collaboration will undoubtedly be a success.
Therefore, I ask you all to inform your customers about Antwerp Design Week, to advertise through platforms such as Instagram, LinkedIn, and other social media. Share the interesting information from ADW through your own channels. Explain to your customers what the event is about and ensure that your sales staff convince them to register.'
Successful edition
With the enthusiastic commitment of the ADW team, led by Emma Van Beckevoort ('Without her, we wouldn't be where we are now,' said Geert-Jan), and the involvement of all participating companies, ADW is ready to present a successful edition. The message of the evening was clear: collaboration and engagement from all parties involved are essential to make ADW a success. With the support of all partners and participating companies, ADW is ready to become an unforgettable event that will grow and flourish in the coming years, concluded Geert-Jan. 'If this year is a success, we're definitely off to a great start.'
More information:
Antwerp Design Week
www.adw.life
[email protected]
