Deutsche Messe AG

Deutsche Messe AG. It is one of the world's leading organizers of capital goods trade fairs and operates one of the largest exhibition grounds globally in its home city. Founded in the aftermath of World War II, the company is renowned for organizing flagship events like Hannover Messe and CeBIT, which have shaped global industrial and technology sectors. As a state-owned enterprise of Lower Saxony, it plays a pivotal role in the German economy and maintains a significant international network.

History

The company was established in 1947 by the British Military Government and the State of Hanover to help rebuild the German economy through industrial exchange, with the first Exportmesse (Export Fair) held in Hannover that same year. This event evolved into the world-renowned Hannover Messe, which in 1970 gave rise to the separate CeBIT technology fair, a dominant event for decades. A pivotal moment was the hosting of the Expo 2000 world's fair on its grounds, leading to major infrastructure expansion. The early 21st century saw strategic shifts, including the discontinuation of CeBIT in 2018 and a strengthened focus on core industrial and technology fairs, navigating challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic which accelerated digital event offerings.

Business activities and venues

Its primary activity is organizing and hosting major international trade fairs, congresses, and events, with its central asset being the Hannover Exhibition Center. This venue, among the largest in the world, features numerous halls like the iconic Hall 1 and modern structures such as the Convention Center and Hall 27. Beyond event operations, it provides comprehensive services in stand construction, event technology, and digital event solutions through subsidiaries. The company also manages the Hannover Congress Centrum and engages in real estate management for its extensive grounds, facilitating events like the Schützenfest Hannover and concerts.

Major trade fairs

The company's portfolio is headlined by Hannover Messe, the world's leading trade fair for industrial technology, showcasing automation, energy solutions, and Industry 4.0. Other flagship industrial events include EMO Hannover for machine tools and LIGNA for woodworking technology. In the mobility sector, it organizes the IAA Transportation commercial vehicle show. While the prominent CeBIT for information technology was discontinued, its legacy influences the digital themes integrated into other fairs. The company also runs significant events like DOMOTEX for floor coverings and the InterSchutz fire and rescue exhibition.

Corporate structure and governance

The company is a state-owned enterprise, with the State of Lower Saxony holding 100% of its shares through the Ministry of Economics, Labour and Transport of Lower Saxony. Its supervisory board includes representatives from the state government, industry associations like the German Engineering Federation (VDMA), and trade unions. Day-to-day operations are led by a managing board, with Jochen Köckler serving as chairman. Key subsidiaries include Deutsche Messe International GmbH for overseas operations and Deutsche Messe Digital GmbH, focusing on hybrid and virtual event platforms.

International presence

It maintains a robust global network through subsidiaries, branch offices, and partnerships in over 100 countries, with a strong focus on growth markets like China, India, and Turkey. In China, it organizes major events such as the Industrial Automation Show in Shanghai and CeMAT ASIA. The company also stages leading trade fairs in Istanbul, Mumbai, and Ho Chi Minh City, and partners with organizations like the U.S. Commercial Service to facilitate international exhibitor participation. This network supports the global marketing of its Hannover-based events and the development of indigenous fairs abroad.

Category:Companies based in Hanover Category:Trade fair organizers Category:State-owned companies of Germany