Focus on stationery
With 45 stands, the 128th Markant Trade Forum placed a special focus on stationery. Markant thus responded to the great interest in this product area, which had already become apparent at the previous trade forum. The wide range of suppliers, 22 of whom were new to the forum, met with keen interest from visitors from the retail sector.
Markant's subsidiary Iberiana also presented itself at a large stand with fruit and vegetables and offered exclusive specialist presentations. A total of 20 fruit and vegetable suppliers from Italy, Spain and the Netherlands were represented.
Trade Forum INSIGHTS: Prominent experts provide insights
At the start of the first day of the fair, prominent specialist presentations provided insights and inspiration from the worlds of science and sport.
Prof. Dr. Moritz Schularick, President of the Kiel Institute for the World Economy, gave a lecture with the highly topical title «Trump 2.0 – how long will Europe put up with this?». He astutely analysed the political and economic relations between the USA and Europe under the current US President.
Former professional footballer and national player Mario Basler provided exciting insights into his professional sports career during «Powerplay with SuperMario». He impressed the audience with his authenticity, humour and many colourful anecdotes from his career.
Trade Forum NIGHT: A journey into space
Guests gathered at the Trade Forum NIGHT for a galactic conclusion to the first day of the trade fair. Under the motto «Into Space», this time they embarked on a fascinating journey through space. The garden hall of the Karlsruhe Congress Centre was transformed into an atmospheric universe. Music by everso ensured that the dance floor quickly filled up.
Start-up Arena: Concentrated founder power
Not only established industry players but also promising young companies have their place at the Markant Trade Forum. Ten innovative start-up teams pitched their products in the start-up arena voilà! A total of 21 young companies were represented in the start-up area, presenting their products to the Markant Group's trading partners.
Fancy by Nature impressed the voilà! jury with its pitches and was named the most striking start-up. The winning team made a lasting impression with its fermented fruit snacks. Fancy by Nature can now look forward to an article in Markant Magazine ONE and a free exhibition stand at the 129th Markant Trade Forum, as well as a meeting with Globus.
The other voilà! start-ups were also successful: BETTER CAKEZ, Elvis Eis, ECKN, NXTUP, pure.lyte and Bawra's impressed the retailers and also secured vouchers for negotiations with retailers.
The date for the 129th Markant Trade Forum has already been set: on 25 and 26 March 2026, we will once again be inviting guests to the exhibition centre in Karlsruhe.
