ProSweets Cologne and ISM set for take off in 2022

The event is one of the largest and most important trade shows in the confectionery world and sets the agenda for new trends and products for the European market and beyond.

"With the support of the national and international exhibitors and our long-standing partner associations, we are offering an excellent starting point for the re-start of both trade fairs​,” said Gerald Böse, President and Chief Executive Officer of Koelnmesse GmbH.

 “After a two-year break, it is important for us to finally offer our exhibiting companies a business platform again in the form of ProSweets Cologne/ISM so they can present their new products and discuss important themes on packaging, process automation and ingredients. Beyond this, we also know from discussions with significant industry representatives that getting together face-to-face is essential for the business of the participating companies​."

In a statement on its website, Koelnmesse said: “The political parameters have a decisive influence on our business model and the feasibility of our events in these volatile and uncertain times. They provide the basis for deciding whether and in what form trade fairs can take place. According to the current Corona Protection Ordinance, trade fairs are still permitted as business events in the federal state of North Rhine-Westphalia, regardless of the level of seven-day incidence and under 3G conditions (vaccinated, tested, recovered).​”

Organisers said that due to the highly dynamic nature of the current situation, they will monitor and reassess developments on a daily basis.

German Covid law

At present, German law requires for all attendees to be fully vaccinated, or have recovered from an infection within the last six months (but at least 28 days ago), or test negative for Covid.

Admission to the Koelnmesse exhibition centre is only possible on the presentation of digital admission tickets using the ISM app. This ticket must be presented together with a recognised digital proof of full vaccination, a negative test or recent recovery – a measure that will eliminate waiting times and ensure the safety of all trade fair participants. Attendees must also continue to wear a medical mask and maintain social distancing of 1.50 metres.

Germany’s leading coronavirus expert has expressed optimism that the country could expect a “relatively normal​” winter. Christian Drosten, who heads the institute of virology at Berlin’s Charité hospital, said that data from other countries suggesting Omicron infections were milder could take the pandemic into an “endemic situation​” more comparable to a common cold or flu virus.

Germany’s new leader, Chancellor Olaf Scholz, is calling a meeting this Friday with state premiers to discuss possible further measures and restrictions, which Koelnmesse will be watching closely for any further updates to rules relating to large gatherings.

Organisers said current registration figures for ProSweets reveal more than 230 exhibitors from over 20 countries, while ISM, the supplier fair for sweets and snacks has approximately 1,200 exhibitors.

• See the ProSweets/ISM website​ for updates​