New ‘Networking Area’ for Musikmesse and Prolight + Sound in Hall 4.1

Stylish, modern and fully orientated towards the needs of international buyers – that’s the new “Networking Area” in Hall 4.1 of Musikmesse and Prolight + Sound. Thanks to an elaborate lounge concept, it creates the optimum setting for business discussions in a relaxed atmosphere. Only a few steps from the Messe Frankfurt ‘S-Bahn’ local-railway station and the ‘Torhaus’ entrance, Hall 4.1 offers presentation space for associations of the music and event sector, business lounges with seating and workplaces, lecture areas and catering zones.

In cooperation the Society of Music Merchants (SOMM) and the Professional Lighting & Sound Association of Germany (Verband für Licht-, Ton- und Veranstaltungstechnik – VPLT), Messe Frankfurt is organising an extensive seminar programme especially for retailers and managers. Also contributing to the programme of events in the “Networking Area” will be other associations and experts from the fields of business, marketing and law. After the lectures and panel discussions, visitors will have the opportunity to exchange ideas and information with the speakers in the business lounges.

During a gala evening event on Thursday, 4 April 2019, the ‘Networking Area’ will also be the setting for the presentation of four important awards: ‘Opus – German Stage Award’, ‘Sinus – Systems Integration Award’, ‘MIPA – Musikmesse International Press Award’ and ‘PIPA – Prolight + Sound Press Award’. Events for trainees and students of the music and event sector are also in planning, which will give companies the opportunity to make contact with talented young people.

The ‘Networking Area’ will also be an important port of call for participants in the ‘Insider’ VIP programme, which offers buyers from the music and entertainment technology sector a variety of benefits – from free admission to cloakroom service. “In 2019, the two trade fairs will be focused more than ever before on international trade visitors. Musikmesse in particular is emphasising its primary function as a platform for professionals and, with measures to reduce noise levels, we will also aim to improve the business quality in the product halls. The ‘Networking Area’ supplements this by providing modern communication and encounter facilities for decision makers on both the exhibitor and visitors sides away from the product presentations”, says Michael Biwer, Group Show Director of the ‘Entertainment, Media & Creative Industries’ Business Unit of Messe Frankfurt Exhibition GmbH.

The different parts of the ‘Networking Area’ will be linked by a common design approach to ensure the area makes a harmonious and consistent overall impression. The design is in line with the ‘Parks & Recreation’ directive. Standing for tranquillity and concentrated working, the playful design elements also produce an atmosphere reflecting the creative dynamism of the music and event sector.