SHERIDAN, WYOMING – March 10, 2025 - Meta Description: Discover the 38th International Trade Fair for Retail Promotions and Imports in Cologne—a two-decade legacy event showcasing innovative exhibitors, diverse product offerings, and a dynamic e-commerce programme for global trade professionals.
The 38th edition of the International Trade Fair for Retail Promotions and Imports (IAW) marks a significant milestone as it celebrates two decades of groundbreaking innovation. Scheduled to take place from 11 to 13 March 2025 at Cologne’s Koelnmesse trade fair centre, this major B2C event continues to set industry benchmarks, drawing an impressive number of trade visitors and exhibitors from across the globe.
A Legacy of Excellence and Global Collaboration
Over the past 20 years, the IAW has evolved into a leading trade platform that bridges the gap between innovative exhibitors and international purchasers. With a consistent record of high visitor turnout and robust exhibitor participation, the fair now attracts around 6,500 trade visitors and approximately 300 exhibitors representing more than 80 countries. This global convergence underscores the fair’s commitment to fostering international trade relationships and promoting cutting-edge retail solutions in a rapidly evolving market.
Cologne, with its vibrant trade fair centre, sets the perfect stage for this international event. Against the backdrop of today’s global political and economic challenges—including discussions around import tariffs and trade restrictions—the IAW remains a beacon of diversity and resilience. Its broad range of product categories spans from garden products, toys, toiletries, and food items to electronic goods and e-commerce solutions, ensuring that every visitor finds innovative offerings tailored to modern retail needs.
Diverse Product Offerings and Innovative Exhibitors
The IAW trade fair prides itself on a diverse and innovative product portfolio that appeals to a wide spectrum of retail sectors. Visitors can explore various categories, including:
- Garden Products and Leisure: Featuring a range of outdoor equipment that caters to both residential and professional needs.
- Toys and Leisure Goods: An assortment of creative and engaging products designed to captivate younger audiences and families alike.
- Toiletries and Food: High-quality offerings that address everyday consumer demands with a focus on innovation and quality.
- Electronic Goods and E-Commerce Solutions: Cutting-edge technology and digital retail innovations that drive the future of shopping.
A special highlight of the upcoming fair is the participation of several first-time exhibitors. Among these, the AVS Group from Greece stands out for its expertise in outlet fashion, offering high-quality clothing and shoes—including surplus stock, previous years’ collections, and exclusive show collections. Additionally, Jasa Alimentación from Spain will showcase its fresh, frozen, and non-perishable food products tailored for the restaurant and catering industries, emphasizing punctual delivery and quality through a sophisticated logistics system. The Danish company Millarco International also makes its debut, boasting over 3,000 articles in tools, garden equipment, and barbecue accessories, solidifying its status as a key supplier in the DIY market.
Innovative Supporting Programmes and Digital Insights
In addition to the impressive exhibition lineup, the IAW trade fair is accompanied by a top-class supporting programme in the E-Commerce Arena. Now in its 20th edition, this three-day series of events is organized by RESTPOSTEN.de and features 20 industry experts sharing practical insights and trends in the digital retail sector. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to benefit from targeted sessions that deliver relevant and actionable specialist information. As organiser Stefan Grimm explains,
“We want to provide visitors with relevant specialist information. Our visitors are normally fully preoccupied with their business operations, but here they have the opportunity to get valuable information in a nutshell,” says organiser Stefan Grimm.
This commitment to knowledge-sharing is further enhanced by the zentrada Forum, which kicks off on the second day of the fair. With the theme “Everything remains different - status and development seen from different perspectives - test your performance,” the forum promises to deliver fascinating insights and practical examples from various facets of the retail industry.
Parallel to the IAW, the ASIA PACIFIC SOURCING event takes place in Halls 7 and 8. With around 750 participating exhibitors, this segment focuses on products from Asia for the home, garden, and leisure sectors. Its strategic positioning adjacent to the main exhibition facilitates seamless interactions and creates unique synergies for professionals in the construction, garden, and DIY markets.
A Dynamic Hub for International Trade and Innovation
The 38th IAW trade fair is more than just an exhibition—it is a dynamic hub where international trade professionals come together to exchange ideas, foster new business relationships, and explore innovative retail solutions. The event’s proven track record, diverse product range, and emphasis on digital transformation make it an unmissable platform for anyone involved in retail promotions and imports.
For trade visitors eager to experience the fair’s diverse offerings and dynamic presentations, registration is now open. To secure a free ticket and participate in this international trade phenomenon, interested parties can visit the official IAW website.
As the industry eagerly anticipates this milestone event, one cannot help but wonder: how will these innovative trends reshape the future of retail promotions and global trade? What are your thoughts on the evolution of international trade fairs in today’s competitive market?