International significance of exhibition trio

A total of 2 967 exhibitors from 66 countries (2012: 2 963) were on display at the Paperworld, Creativeworld and Christmasworld consumer goods fairs in Frankfurt am Main. The number of visitors totalled 83 206, which was 3.9 per cent down on the previous year. However, “in view of economic developments in the areas of paper, office supplies and stationery, craft and artists’ supplies, plus decorative products and festive decoration”, Messe Frankfurt appeared “very satisfied”, in the words of managing director Detlef Braun. In his opinion, “In particular the number of visitors from beyond Europe underlines the international significance of this trio of exhibitions.” There is also satisfaction with the initiative against patent and trademark infringements, “Messe Frankfurt against copying”. The manufacturers are continuing to take advantage of the advisory service. On the other hand, though, customs checked fewer stands and impounded fewer products. This development is seen as showing that buyers are less and less frequently interested in counterfeits.