As part of its internationalisation strategy, Koelnmesse has entered into a strategic partnership with Colombia's La Feria De Diseño Medellín. This year, the leading design event in Latin America and The Caribbean will be launched as "La Feria De Diseño Medellín – powered by imm cologne". The network and experience of the imm cologne and the entire portfolio will contribute to the event's profile and further increase the fair's internationality. From 19 to 21 September 2024, the show will be the beating heart of design and lifestyle in the region, offering a unique platform for inspiring and professional dialogue. In 2024, the exhibition will focus on forging links between emerging innovators and established industry figures, creating unique opportunities for collaboration and learning.
Colombia is preparing to host "La Feria De Diseño Medellín – powered by imm cologne" in the Plaza Mayor convention and exhibition centre in Medellín, consolidating its efforts to make the city the design capital of Latin America and The Caribbean. Now celebrating its 11th edition, this well-established event has become a mainstay for professionals, innovators and lovers of high-end design, architecture and lifestyle, providing a space where new trends can be explored and business opportunities generated.
Expansion of the Living, Contract & Public Spaces portfolio
As part of its strategy to expand its international presence, Koelnmesse has chosen Medellín to be its latest new venue from which to combine global trends with the creative riches of Latin America. In doing so, it takes its inspiration from imm cologne, which brings together interior design professionals from all over the world in the German city of Cologne every January, showcasing trends and product innovations from renowned manufacturing companies.
However, the exhibition in Medellín won't just focus on imm cologne's product areas. Elements of the spoga+gafa portfolio will also feature, as will selections from ORGATEC and wellness products from aquanale. Gerald Böse, CEO of Koelnmesse, explains: "I am delighted that we are investing our decades of experience from the shows here in Cologne from the portfolio Living, Contract and Public Spaces in an already established event in Colombia. We are thus expanding our portfolio in this area with a strong foreign trade fair." With the addition of the new show in Colombia, Koelnmesse's Living, Contract & Public Spaces portfolio now comprises 11 shows and trade fairs, among others with ORGATEC TOKYO in Japan, interzum guanzhou in China, interzum bogota in Colombia or interzum forum italy in Bergamo.
La Feria De Diseño Medellín and its global impact on design innovation
Over the course of more than a decade, the trade fair has come a long way, growing in size, scope and prestige. La Feria De Diseño's legacy of bringing together the most influential and collaborative design community to foster dialogue, lifestyle and growth is set to continue this year. Its alliance with Koelnmesse, a leading organiser of international trade fairs, promises to raise the profile of the event further still, attracting a global audience and offering participants a window into the global design market.
"We are thrilled to announce our partnership with Koelnmesse, a global leader in the interior design sector, marking a milestone for our show. Together, we will elevate standards in design, architecture, habitat, and lifestyle across Latin America and The Caribbean. We look forward to welcoming every new exhibitor from all over the world who wants to be part of this success story", say Eddy Karmona and Juana Montoya, Owners of La Feria De Diseño Medellín.
The heart of Medellín, Colombia, known for its ecosystem combining innovation and culture, provides the perfect backdrop for this gathering. La Feria De Diseño Medellín has come to be recognised for its unique focus on sustainability, innovation and inclusion, themes that are demonstrated in each edition's carefully curated programme of speakers, workshops and exhibitions that challenge and expand our understanding of design.
Preparations are underway to amplify the impact of the 2024 edition in the anticipation that it will surpass the successes of previous years, with expectations of attracting more than 25,000 visitors from 31 countries and connecting them with 270 domestic and international brands across more than 18,000 m² of exhibition space. This year's event will be even more special thanks to the participation of internationally renowned figures, the Rockstars of design, architecture, interiors and lifestyle, who will share their knowledge and experience, inspiring the next generation of design professionals.
"We invite industry professionals, collaborators from academia and sponsors to take part in this unique celebration of lifestyle and innovation. 'La Feria De Diseño Medellín – powered by imm cologne' is a unique platform in Colombia for global collaboration and the advancement of design and architecture. Let's come together in Medellín to be protagonists in this constantly evolving story, where every detail, every item, plays a part in this exciting chapter in global design," says Christian Guarín, Managing Director of Koelnmesse SAS in Colombia.
Medellín becomes a symbol of Latin American Design
Medellín's designation as a Special District of Science, Technology and Innovation marks a watershed moment for the region. Rather than simply being a title, this transformation allows the city to attract and nurture talent in the technology and education sectors, making it a magnet for companies and individuals in search of an environment that celebrates excellence and lifestyle.
This shift in focus towards innovation translates directly to the design sector, where Medellín has already begun to forge a reputation. The city hosts prestigious events that bring together talent from around the world and has also become a living laboratory for urban and architectural design, where public and private spaces showcase a unique blend of functionality, beauty and sustainability. The convergence of these disciplines in Medellín, supported by policies that encourage investment in science and technology, has positioned the city as a leader in promoting lifestyles that are both aspirational and sustainable, marking a turning point in the world's perception of Medellín and its role in the future of design in Latin America and The Caribbean.
More information:
Koelnmesse
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