Eurobike companion event tackles Berlin’s ‘anti-bicycling city reputation'

Exhibitors praise VeloBerlin potential

Over 8, 400 visitors made the trip to the inaugural VeloBerlin last month.

The two-day event gave attendees the chance to take part in test rides and see product from the new bicycle season.

160 exhibitors showcased their wares over 11,000 square metres of space at VeloBerlin, which also incorporated the MetroMobile industry congress – discussing ‘people and mobility in urban spaces’, bringing together transport experts from politics and organisations.

The event is pitched as a springtime companion for September’s Eurobike. As with the Friedrichshafen show, e-bikes were a key focus at VeloBerlin.

Cannondale’s Tobias Schweter said of the debut show: “Until now, Berlin was basically seen as an anti-bicycling city, which is why it finally deserves to host a large exhibition for the general public. If you want to establish a trade show for end consumers in Germany, then Berlin is certainly the right place. Its population size alone gives Berlin great potential. Considering that this was the debut event, we are completely satisfied. Our expectations with regard to visitor frequency were met and visitors were particularly interested in our sports bicycles. We are looking forward to the next edition of this event."

Winora sales manager Steffen Alberth added: “I’m delighted. The halls and our stand in particular are well visited. As expected, there is a great deal of interest in e-bikes. People come here to see things that specifically interest them. This is no longer simply a regional exhibition. The date is ideal for the start of the season. Berlin is great."

Abus PR manager Torsten Mendel said of the debut show: "The public in Berlin is relaxed and interested, and they have flocked here. The ‘Berlin city helmet’ was particularly well received by Berliners. Safety and ties to the local community all come together here. Berlin has long ago become a bicycling city, and now it finally has an exhibition to match. This goes beyond the media and political level. Here at the stand we are making sales and informing customers. The stand is full! A successful debut – and we’re looking forward to 2012!"

Show organiser Messe Friedrichshafen confirmed the show will return to Berlin in spring 2012.

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