The spoga+gafa event once again served as a global gathering point for the garden industry, showcasing the significant international participation of exhibitors from Europe and America. This year’s edition saw a notable increase in attendance, particularly from Germany, signaling a robust interest and engagement within the sector.
Oliver Frese, Chief Operating Officer of Koelnmesse GmbH, reflected on the event’s impact, stating, “The success of spoga+gafa is proof of the trust and the support of our exhibitors and visitors. Precisely in these challenging times spoga+gafa has proven yet again to be an indispensable and reliable platform for the green industry. The positive response of the international trade visitors, the growth in the number of German visitors, and the high quality of the discussions with our partners, motivates us even more in our efforts to constantly further develop spoga+gafa.”
In 2024, spoga+gafa welcomed over 1,800 exhibitors from 66 countries and approximately 28,000 visitors from 113 countries, marking a significant global footprint. The event was particularly well-attended by nations such as the Netherlands, Italy, Belgium, the USA, and Australia, alongside Germany which saw the highest increase in visitors.
The trade fair emphasized the theme “Responsible Gardens,” engaging participants with best practices from the international garden trade, insightful lectures, and theme-specific product presentations. Additionally, spoga+gafa expanded its content to include new theme worlds such as “From Budget to Luxury – BBQ for Every Wallet”, “cooling world”, and “Outdoor Adventure”, which catered to diverse market segments and consumer preferences.
Looking ahead to 2025, the event will focus on “Design Gardens”, offering aesthetic and innovative design solutions for private green spaces. This theme underscores the evolving quality and design standards expected in the garden and BBQ industries.
Industry leaders shared their thoughts on the event’s success and its role as a pivotal platform. Anna Hackstein, Managing Director of the Industry Garden Association e.V. (IVG), praised the quality of the event and the collaborative spirit, noting, “As the industry sponsor we are fully supporting spoga+gafa, which once again this year excelled with its high quality and it was great fun too.”
John W. Herbert, General Secretary of the European DIY Retail Association and the Global Home Improvement Network (EDRA/GHIN), highlighted the growth and importance of the event, while Martina Mensing-Meckelburg, President of the German Garden Centre Association e.V. (VDG), emphasized the fair’s role in promoting sustainable practices.
Dr. Peter Wüst, Chief Executive Director of BHB – Trade Association for Home Improvement, Construction & Gardening e.V., acknowledged the challenges of the current economic climate but remained optimistic about the industry’s resilience and the opportunities presented by spoga+gafa for networking and knowledge exchange.
Norbert L. Jedrau, Chief Operating Officer of BIAG, concluded, “spoga+gafa once again exceeded our expectations and confirmed its position as a must-attend event for the BBQ industry.” He praised the variety of new products and the dynamic presentations that have become a hallmark of the event.
The event continues to solidify its position as a key date for industry professionals looking to explore the latest trends, technologies, and sustainable practices in the garden industry.
