Matchmaking is a service that connects exhibitors and visitors based on their interests and arranges meetings at the fair. It usually runs through an online platform or the show app.
With matchmaking, exhibitors and visitors create a profile with their offer, interests and goals. The platform suggests suitable contacts, and both sides can request, accept or decline meetings. The meetings take place on the stand or in dedicated meeting zones. The platforms usually open before the show so that there is time to plan meetings, and agreed meetings then show up in the calendar of the platform or app.
Matchmaking is offered by organisers and sometimes by chambers of commerce, associations or economic development agencies, which for example arrange meetings between companies from different countries. Whether the service is free is up to each provider.
Matchmaking helps above all when you are looking for specific new contacts: dealers in a new market, buyers from certain industries or partners for a project. For exhibitors from abroad, it is a way to arrange meetings with companies in Germany before they travel.
Success depends on the profile. Describe exactly what you offer and whom you want to meet, and use a current photo or logo. Answer requests quickly and plan fixed time slots when the right people are on your stand (booth). Add your hall and stand number to the profile too, so that the people you meet can find you directly.
The real work starts after the show. Keep notes on every meeting and get in touch within a few days with the documents you discussed.
Arranged meetings are good moments for photos. The people involved are known, the time is fixed, and you can agree in advance whether a joint photo or a short handshake scene is wanted. We take pictures at the start or end of the meeting and stay in the background while you talk.
Such pictures can later be used for joint posts with the new partner, if both sides agree. You receive the material within 24 hours after the show ends, so you can already use it in your follow-up emails. The guide Conversation photos on the stand describes how to capture conversations naturally.
Each fair or provider decides that for itself. Some offers are included in the stand package, others cost extra.
Yes, if the person you are meeting agrees. It is best to clarify this when confirming the meeting or right at the start.
Send us the fair, hall and your key meetings. We plan the photos around your conversations and deliver within 24 hours after the show ends.
We reply within 24 hours. During a show week, WhatsApp is fastest.
