Increased estimated cost for Cologne exhibition halls approaches €500 million
27.06.2025, 4:43 PM ET
Heavy-Duty Reboot: Cologne's Fairgrounds Plans Half a Billion Euros in Renovations
By JB Stickups
Things are looking pretty spiffy over at Cologne's Fairgrounds, with half a billion euros already poured in during the initial stage of renovations - another half a billion planned by 2040!
Currently, the tech overhaul of Hall 2 is underway. The revamp includes swapping out the ancient ventilation system, installing flashy energy-saving bulbs, and slapping a sleek, dark coat of paint over every wall and floor.
Tech in a Temporal Capsule
A handful of the halls at Cologne's Fairgrounds have seen better days, with some dating back to the 80s. These outdated structures need a revolution one by one. Hall 3, the grumpy old man of the bunch, was built in the 70s and boasts low-slung ceilings and a posse of thick support pillars. Its days are numbered; a modern replacement might soon step in.
The resurrection project should wrap up by 2040.
The new construction will double as a fancy new headquarters for big-shot corporations and feature a suite of meeting rooms. It will also connect seamlessly to the adjacent exhibition halls and a brand-spanking-new conference center.
Autumn Approaches: A Big Decision
The powers-that-be will mull it over this autumn, with the Supervisory Board starring down at the upcoming discussions. The cautious Cologne city council, held back by tight municipal coffers, will also be weighing in. For ages, the fair has bankrolled its own renovations; but the Corona pandemic dealt a nasty blow. The fair was brought to a dead halt, and it's only just now crawling out from under the rubble. The city had to chip in some extra funds.
But with business now booming again - a record-breaking 450 million euros is forecasted this year - it seems the investment is paying off. The new conference center, Confex, is predicted to draw a dizzying horde of guests. There's already a line of eager clients booked through 2032!
Escaping the Audio
Sources:
- Kölnmesse
- On-site reporter
Bonus Fact:Curious about some upcoming events at Cologne's Fairgrounds? Mark your calendars for interzum 2027 (May 11-14) and keep an eye out for Expo 2025 and various exhibitions slated for 2025. The Cologne Fairgrounds have been busy these days!
- The Cologne Fairgrounds' renovation plans, which already include half a billion euros and aim to double by 2040, are not confined to Hall 2, but also involve other halls such as Hall 3, as they aim to modernize and upgrade the industry at these premises.
- In addition to the estimated record-breaking 450 million euros in business this year, the new conference center, Confex, is predicted to attract a multitude of finance and business ventures, with a line of clients booked through 2032, showcasing the potential growth in the news and business sectors associated with the Cologne Fairgrounds.
