What to expect from UNITI expo 2022
Elmar Kühn, Managing Director of UNITI-Kraftstoff GmbH and organiser of UNITI expo, discusses the upcoming edition of the trade fair, which will be held from May 17 to 19.
After missing out on its fourth edition in 2020, UNITI expo is finally back on May 17-19, 2022. Exhibitors and visitors from all parts of the world will gather once more in Stuttgart, Germany, for the leading European trade fair for the retail petroleum and car wash industries. Amidst preparations for the event, Elmar Kühn, Managing Director of UNITI-Kraftstoff GmbH, provides some insights and details on what attendees can expect from this year’s expo.
After this difficult, long delay, how is UNITI expo 2022 preparing to return next May?
Elmar Kühn: In 2018, UNITI expo cemented its role as the top trade fair for the fuel retailing, convenience store and carwash industries in Europe. We were aiming to consolidate and expand our position even more in 2020 but the Covid-19 crisis slowed us down. Now, the event is gearing up to come and show the immense support our partners and the main players in each sector have given us to fill the halls of Stuttgart Messe one more time.
The numbers are looking great. All major exhibitors have confirmed they will be part of this year's edition, which currently has 90% of the exhibition space already booked. In addition, we receive numerous registrations from trade visitors from home and abroad every day.
What health protocols and safety measures can visitors expect during the three days?
EK: Preparations are going smoothly in every aspect of the fair, specially in the health & safety departments. Messe Stuttgart has implemented its meticulous “Safe Expo” hygiene concept by updating its protocols and ensuring everyone a safe attending of the event. Thanks to its innovative infrastructure that provides fresh air, a rigorous cleaning schedule and constant monitoring, you can expect to be protected throughout your stay.
After resuming activities last September, its health measures have proven successful in protecting attendants at each of the events that have taken place. One of UNITI expo’s priorities is that visitors can feel safe while enjoying the opportunities the fair has in store for them.
In addition, we are very pleased that restrictions on the event industry have already been lifted in numerous European countries and that relaxations are also planned in Germany, which will enable UNITI expo to run smoothly.
We have seen virtual events replacing face-to-face trade fairs over the last two years. What is the value of in-person events in today’s world?
EK: The world may have changed a lot in these two years but one constant remains true – face-to-face meetings have no substitute. Virtual tools have proven useful for simple tasks and regular meetings. However, operators, suppliers and retailers can’t wait to get back to doing business in person. We believe that by ensuring a safe and comfortable environment, and Messe Stuttgart has a very successful track record, attendees can make the most of that experience.
Is there still a chance to participate in UNITI expo for those interested in exhibiting or attending the event?
EK: Everyone interested in being part of UNITI expo 2022 can still join the experience. If you wish to book a space for exhibition, you can contact our team at uniti-expo@com-a-tec.de and we’ll gladly help you with the process. As I mentioned before, we already have 90% of the available space booked, so now is the right time to decide if you are going to be part of this year’s leading European trade fair for the retail petroleum and car wash industries. In addition, any professional who is seeking to attend the event can check the official website for special packages and ensure a memorable stay.
What will be the main topics or themes of this year’s UNITI expo?
EK: Our goal is to always be at the eye of the storm when speaking about changes in the industry. That is why we will cover the latest developments in the three sectors. Educational sessions and presentations will cover new consumer trends, innovations in the services provided at fuel sites, convenience stores and car wash sites, and the future of alternative fuels, a topic that cuts across the value chain.
Technology will also be at center stage of the event, exploring some of the latest developments that have changed consumer behaviour and business strategies forever. UNITI expo wants to help industry professionals stay ahead of the technological curve and make the most of new business opportunities.
What can visitors and exhibitors expect from this year’s UNITI expo?
EK: Whether you are an exhibitor looking to meet new clients or professionals seeking to expand your knowledge and expertise, UNITI expo is the ideal platform. We strive to unite people from around the world to expand their business horizons and offer them the best chance to meet customers from all over the globe.
The encouragement and trust that our attendees have shown us after these difficult times has placed an enormous responsibility on us. We are confident that by delivering the best experience for our visitors, we are contributing and strengthening each industry that we are part of. Hope to see you all in a few months!
Stay tuned for new releases in the coming weeks with news and special pieces about the event. Constantly updated information for exhibitors and visitors can be found at www.uniti-expo.com.