In the interview with the organisers of the Munich Fabric Start trade shows, Sebastian Klinder and Frank Junker give an insight into the past year, challenging times and new projects to come. The planning for MUNICH FABRIC START and BLUEZONE in January 2022 was almost complete, the response from the industry extremely positive – but then the physical trade shows had to be canceled at the end of last year.

What is the current plan for 2022?

SK: The last few months have been extraordinarily dynamic for us and incredibly tough! Having to cancel so close to the finish line with over 700 registered international exhibitors has probably been the most difficult decision in our company’s history. Now we are looking ahead and concentrating fully on the organisation and alignment of the next shows in the first half of 2022. The first independent BLUEZONE X KEYHOUSE is planned for May 2022 with an innovative concept. In addition, after a forced two-year break due to Covid-19, VIEW will finally take place again from 21 – 22 June 2022 in the MVG Museum. Followed by, of course and as usual, the combined trade show format of MUNICH FABRIC START and BLUEZONE at the end of August 2022.

The cancellation came as a surprise, especially given the enormous support from the industry and the great need for a physical platform. How do you look back on the last few weeks?

FJ: With very mixed feelings. The last few weeks have been a roller coaster ride. At a time characterised by a great deal of uncertainty and rapidly increasing infection numbers in Germany and across Europe, we saw it as our responsibility to offer a certain degree of predictability. And also to make a contribution to society, to take on responsibility. The cancellation of a trade show is an absolute nightmare for every organiser. This is unimaginably bitter for the industry as well as for us, our team and our service providers, because we all put a lot of heart and passion into the planning and preparations.

SK: Despite many question marks and uncertainties, we are convinced that we made the right decision. The current situation in Germany and Europe confirms this. The situation simply does not offer a basis on which we can and want to welcome people from 36 countries in Munich or allow trade shows to take place at the level we are familiar with. We bear an enormous economical, but also societal responsibility. And we are not one of those organisers who realise a show at any price. We see ourselves as a trustworthy and reliable industry partner who represents certain values ​​and a certain event philosophy. And we would like to keep them in the long term.

SK: However, the personal exchange as well as the feeling and seeing of the fabrics and materials are essential for the textile industry without equivalent digital alternative so far. We are convinced that in the course of this year, we will be able to implement the planned shows as physical events without having to make major cuts in our overall concept and the associated hosting philosophy. Because this is the only way we can meet the needs of the industry: a physical platform for your business in an ideal atmosphere and in real life!