Based on plans by Frankfurt-based architects kadawittfeldarchitektur, two new levels with a total exhibition area of 33,600 m², will rise from the ground. textile network spoke to Olaf Schmidt, Vice President Textiles & Textile Technologies, Messe Frankfurt, about the plans, the future concept for exhibitors and the structure of Heimtextil.

textile network: Which companies will be appearing in Hall 12?

Olaf Schmidt: Hall 12 will be home to suppliers from the "bed" and "bath" segments. We’re still working on the details of our product group concept though.

tn: Will this free up space elsewhere?

OS: Yes, it will, and we’re seizing the chance to enhance our concept across the entire fair with a view to creating synergies for our buyers and to bringing together product groups that appeal to specific target groups.

tn: Are you hoping to appeal to new exhibitors from different genres, e.g. home accessories etc?

OS: For some time now, there’s been a rise in the number of companies expanding their ranges to textile and non-textile accessories for the home. Retailers and, above all, concept store operators are interested in enriching their product ranges with matching accessories as they see considerable sales potential in this sector. This is why we’re happy to support this development. In our "Trendspot Retail" in Hall 11.1 we’re presenting selected accessories featuring young designs. Even so, we are and intend to remain a home textiles fair.

Read the complete interview in our printed issue textile network 11/12 which appears in the middle of November 2017.