DÜSSELDORF | Germany – October 2024 – drupa, the world’s leading trade fair for printing technologies, will shorten its duration for the 2028 event to nine days, a change aimed at improving focus and efficiency for exhibitors and visitors alike. The next edition of drupa will take place from May 9 to May 17, 2028, maintaining its proven four-year cycle.
As the global printing and packaging industries continue to evolve rapidly, drupa adapts to meet the changing needs of its participants. The 2024 edition of drupa demonstrated its relevance and importance as a platform for innovation, showcasing how the industry is moving toward more sustainable solutions through automation, artificial intelligence, and collaboration. The upcoming 2028 event aims to build on this momentum, while providing a more efficient experience.
Wolfram N. Diener, Chairman of the Management Board of Messe Düsseldorf, explained the decision to reduce the event’s duration: “drupa 2024 was more international than ever, and the halls were filled with the industry’s determination to drive meaningful change. However, we’ve seen that at B2B trade fairs with a high proportion of decision-makers, the length of stay has become shorter. By adjusting the duration, we aim to offer a trade fair visit that maximizes efficiency for all participants.”
At drupa 2024, 76% of visitors were from top and middle management, highlighting the event’s status as a hub for decision-makers. The updated duration aligns with other leading trade fairs, such as interpack and K, which have similar visitor profiles and durations.
Dr. Andreas Pleßke, Chairman of the drupa Committee and CEO of Koenig & Bauer AG, fully supports the change:
“For Koenig & Bauer, drupa remains an unmatched marketing platform. We welcome the new duration as it meets the evolving needs of the industry while maintaining the international reach of the event. The participation of visitors from 173 countries at drupa 2024 reinforces its global appeal.”
Sabine Geldermann, Director of drupa, emphasized the careful consideration behind the decision:
“We’ve thoroughly analyzed recommendations from our committee, feedback from exhibitors and visitors, and industry trends. The shorter duration is a direct response to the industry’s desire for a more focused and efficient event that continues to offer groundbreaking innovations and technologies.”
The conceptual direction of drupa 2028, including a new key visual and future claims, will be presented to the industry in 2025.
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