What is the importance of Fruit Logistica for exhibitors coming to Berlin from all over the world?
Dr. Göke: Nowhere else in the world can exhibiting companies find such an efficient business platform, offering the quality and intensity, as at Fruit Logistica. The companies have clearly recognised this as being very valuable to their business activities, which is why they return each year and often bring new partners with them.
What makes Fruit Logistica so appealing to foreign and domestic trade visitors?
Dr. Göke: Exactly the same things that make it so appealing to exhibitors. Fruit Logistica is the only place, where in just three days, trade visitors find so many opportunities to communicate with existing customers, establish new business contacts and learn about the latest industry developments.
Does the trade fair offer industry insiders information and new ideas for their businesses?
Dr. Göke: Most certainly. Knowing which direction other companies are going and how they do things are essential elements for well-balanced business decisions. New ideas come from simultaneously experiencing several different factors that provide a bigger picture and serve as the basis for decision-making. What's most important is the opportunity to experience these factors all at the same time. This is precisely what Fruit Logistica offers on an unparalleled scale.
Does the trade fair place a special emphasis on the latest produce industry developments and trends?
Dr. Göke: This is a very important aspect for us. The fresh produce trade is extremely innovative with a strong propensity for new developments – unfortunately these attributes often go unnoticed. With this in mind, we joined forces with Fruchthandel Magazine five years ago to introduce the Fruit Logistica Innovation Award. What makes this award so special is that the industry decides which product will be honoured as the innovation of the year. At the same time, this message also reaches consumers through the media.
What makes Berlin so appealing as a location for this international trade fair?
Dr. Göke: From a technical standpoint, Berlin is the capital of the nation that imports and consumes more fruit and vegetables than any other country in the EU – which itself is one of the world's largest markets. Part of attending a trade fair however, is the opportunity to explore the local area. Berlin offers unparalleled diversity when it comes to culture, dining and shopping. This is something our visitors thoroughly enjoy. The city also offers an outstanding infrastructure for trade shows and conventions. An example of this is the fact that Berlin offers more competitive hotel rates than any other major European city.
