More exhibitors at the second edition in Bergamo

The International Hardware Fair Italy opened today in Bergamo, northern Italy. The trade fair is being held for the second time since 2023. It lasts two days. The 320 exhibitors - around 7 per cent more than two years ago - come from 22 countries. More than 6,000 visitors are expected to attend.

Gerald Böse, CEO of Koelnmesse, also travelled to the opening. He explained that the International Hardware Fair Italy is part of the internationalisation strategy for the hardware fair.

‘This trade fair is an international event,’ said Thomas Rosalia, Managing Director of Koelnmesse Italia. ‘It wants to continue to grow.’ He also pointed out the support of the Italian industry associations and the international DIY association Edra/Ghin. Its Managing Director, John Herbert, also took part in the opening ceremony.

As part of the trade fair, the organisers have created a matchmaking programme and arranged 400 meetings between manufacturers and buyers. There is also an extensive supporting programme. A test area has been set up in the outdoor area. And a conference will run parallel to the trade fair on both days, at which Rainer Strnad, editor-in-chief of the diy trade magazine and DIY International, will also be speaking.

The day before, the trade fair had already organised a store tour in collaboration with Edra/Ghin. In addition to an owner-managed hardware store and a wholesaler, the group visited Obi, Leroy Merlin and Tecnomat stores.

The organisers also hosted a networking evening to kick off the trade fair. Three products were honoured in each of the categories of design, innovation and sustainability, which were selected by a jury of experts from retail, industry and the media.