International hardware fair Eisenwarenmesse closed yesterday, with organisers reporting "crowded aisles and full order books."
Around 44,000 trade visitors from 124 countries attended the fair, with visitor footfall reported as stable throughout its duration. There were around 2,670 exhibitors from 55 countries and a 'DIY Boulevard', a new format intended to increase media attention.

Said Koelnmesse chief operating officer Katharina C. Hamma: "We are delighted about the outstanding result of Eisenwarenmesse - International Hardware Fair 2016. The DIY Boulevard was an absolute highlight. The stands were well-attended.

"As a result of the conceptual changes and the integration of further industry themes such as e-commerce, the quality of the event was further improved and convinced both the trade visitors and the exhibitors."

The share of foreign exhibitors was estimated at 86%, including those from the UK, France, Italy and Spain. Germany was the country which record the highest growth in terms of exhibitor numbers, rising by 6%.