At this year’s opening press conference, organisers built up a great deal of anticipation for the show, highlighting IFA’s impressive 100-year history and the forward-looking approach that has led to a new, reimagined identity
IFA is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year with more than 1,800 exhibitors, a fully booked exhibition space, and the latest and greatest innovations from the world of consumer electronics and home appliances.
The opening press conference on Wednesday set the stage for another innovation-packed edition of the world’s leading consumer electronics and home appliances trade show. Organisers underlined some of the key highlights for IFA 2024, including the presence of German Chancellor Olaf Scholz at the Opening Gala, special IFA anniversary activities such as “100Moments,” the concert by rock legend Bryan Adams, the keynotes and panel events featuring over 150 industry leaders and technology pioneers, and the innovative start-ups at IFA Next with a special focus on partner country South Korea, not to mention the over 1,800 exhibitors packing the halls at the Messe Berlin.
This edition of IFA also kicks off with new corporate branding that features bold modern colours while maintaining a connection to the show’s heritage with the famous “Funk Otto” logo. “IFA has always been and will always be at the forefront of change and disruption,” said Leif Lindner, the CEO of IFA Berlin. “However, to remain relevant and pioneering, IFA must evolve beyond a traditional trade show.” As a part of this approach, organisers are ramping up the cultural and entertainment aspects of IFA. This year a series of top level music acts are taking place in the Sommergarten, and apart from rock legend Bryan Adams, the chart-topping dance music band Faithless will be making its comeback.
IFA’s positive role on the international stage
IFA 2024 is taking place at a time when the global economy is still in recovery mode, but things are looking up for the consumer electronics and home appliances sector. In 2023, consumer tech products generated a global sales volume of around USD $1.2 trillion, which represents a stable result compared to the previous year, while the industry recorded largely stable revenues during the first half of 2024.
Dr Sara Warneke, Managing Director of gfu Consumer & Home Electronics, owner of the IFA trademark, highlighted the importance of IFA as a catalyst for the industry. “As the world’s most important trade show for consumer and home electronics, IFA will play a role in creating a positive momentum both in national and international markets. We are convinced that IFA will continue to be the world’s most important platform for consumer electronics and home appliances. Thanks to its powerful mix of sectors and exhibitors, IFA will continue to prove itself as a sustainable driver of growth and innovation in its anniversary year.”
Dr Warneke noted other trends in the market such as the growth of e-commerce, especially in China where it has surpassed Covid-19 pandemic levels; the continuing tendency towards affordable premium products; the development of digital health devices, and the demand for more sustainable appliances.
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