Marking its 100th anniversary, Koelnmesse is unveiling Europe's most advanced event and congress centre, Confex, with a grand opening ceremony. This technically sophisticated and sustainably designed facility opens exciting possibilities for innovative event formats across the region. After nearly three years of construction, this flagship project within the billion-euro Koelnmesse 3.0 investment initiative is now ready to welcome the world.

"For a century, Koelnmesse has been a hub for ideas and innovations from around the globe. With Confex, we're ensuring this distinctive role thrives for generations to come," said North Rhine-Westphalia's Minister President Hendrik Wüst at the opening. "When former Mayor and trade fair founder Konrad Adenauer envisioned this venue, he dreamed of a meeting place that would bridge nations and strengthen understanding between Germany and Europe. That vision has truly come to life." Koelnmesse has become a cornerstone of North Rhine-Westphalia's economic strength, offering companies worldwide a platform to connect and expand into new markets. Beyond its direct economic impact, it continues to bolster the region's innovation capacity and global standing. "This milestone is absolutely worthy of celebration," Wüst concluded.

The heart of the 20,500 square-metre Confex complex is the tri-partite Confex Hall, which seats 4,300 attendees. Two conference levels feature 22 flexible rooms ranging from 27 to 205 square metres, accommodating everything from intimate workshops to large-scale gatherings. Light-filled entrance corridors flow seamlessly into an expansive foyer—perfect for receptions, networking breaks, presentations, and side events—which opens directly onto the 5,600 square-metre Confex Plaza outdoor terrace. Integrated into one of the world's largest exhibition campuses, Confex connects to additional flexible spaces that can be activated as needed, creating endless possibilities for event customisation.

"This opening fills a critical gap in our exhibition infrastructure," says Cologne's Lord Mayor Henriette Reker, who chairs Koelnmesse's supervisory board. "Confex will attract entirely new events and audiences to Cologne, particularly for congresses and hybrid events hosting over 6,000 guests. The city and state stood firmly behind this investment, even through challenging times." Designed by architectural firm JSWD, this three-storey building integrates seamlessly with existing fair structures, forming a natural gateway from the inner-city exhibition grounds to the Rheinpark beyond, working in concert with the new Hall 1.

"Confex represents a strategic leap forward for Koelnmesse," explains Gerald Böse, Chief Executive of Koelnmesse GmbH. "It positions our events competitively in tomorrow's exhibition landscape while extending our reach beyond peak season with new audiences—creating substantial advantages for Cologne and the entire region." The facility embodies three essential qualities for the future of events: flexibility, efficiency, and emotional connection. "This is what the modern exhibition industry demands," Böse adds.

The response from the market has been immediate and overwhelming. Koelncongress, Confex's marketing partner and Koelnmesse subsidiary, already holds bookings and inquiries through the end of 2029. "We're launching our first events this summer, with many organisers visiting Cologne for the very first time," notes Koelncongress Managing Director Ralf Nüsser. Starting this autumn, the venue will host major multi-day conferences, including the UFI Global Congress—the international trade show association's flagship gathering—in November 2024.

Confex exemplifies Koelnmesse's commitment to sustainable, resource-conscious operations. The building earned platinum pre-certification from Germany's Sustainable Building Council (DGNB) during construction—a remarkable achievement. "Architecture transcends mere function; it's a reflection of our society's values and technological progress," explains Jürgen Steffens, lead architect at JSWD. Beyond sustainability, the design prioritises seamless digital integration across all functional areas, creating a truly connected venue.

For a century, Koelnmesse has been a vibrant epicentre of innovation, commerce, and international partnership. Konrad Adenauer sparked this legacy in 1924, laying the groundwork for a globally respected institution. "Confex is another defining moment in that hundred-year journey—a bridge connecting businesses, people, and nations across a new decade," says Gerald Böse. "Welcome to a space where innovation and heritage converge!"

The anniversary celebration unfolds under the theme "Yesterday | Today | Tomorrow — Koelnmesse connects," offering guests an immersive journey through time. A dynamic multimedia experience spans two hours, transporting the audience from the 1920s through today and into tomorrow. To complete the experience, celebrated television chef Johann Lafer and his Koelncongress culinary team present live cooking stations featuring gourmet highlights throughout the evening.

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