Kind + Jugend closes with record numbers of visitors and exhibitors | Key4Communications |

The childcare fair Kind + Jugend 2011 has closed with record numbers of visitors and exhibitors. More than 21,000 trade visitors from 106 countries attended the show, held between 15 and 18 September in Cologne. Visitors were willing to see the new products showcased by 940 exhibitors from 41 countries. Last year, the number of exhibitors was of 815, while visitors were about 19,000.

Markus Oster, area director of Koelnmesse, organizer of the fair, said that "foreign participation stood at about 72% for visitors and 80% in terms of exhibitors." The organization highlighted especially the growth of buyers from Russia, Brazil, Mexico, Japan and Korea.

The number of participants from international associations has also increased. Some of these organizations present were the British Baby Product Association (BPA), the Spanish Association of Children's Products (ASEPRI) and the European Association for Fashion and Child Care, Children's Fashion Europe (CFE), in addition to the new industry association, Nursery Products European Confederation (ENPC).

According to a Koelnmesse survey, 87% of visitors expressed their satisfaction at having achieved the objectives set before going to the fair. In addition, 90% of visitors are involved in purchasing decisions of their companies, 48% of them with decisive influence.

The Innovation Awards
Like every year, the show has given its Innovation Awards, highlighting new developments in design, materials, ease of use, and technology.

World of Moving Baby: Origami stroller, 4moms.

World of Traveling Baby: Kiwy car-seat, Segrall.

World of Moving & Travelling Baby Accessories: additional belt for car-seat 5-Point Safety Plus Anti Escape Seat System, Systematic Strategy.

World of Baby Safety at Home: Tommeetippiee communicator, Mayborn Baby & Child.

World of Baby Toys: Big Optics Workshop, HABA.

World of Baby Textiles: The Wrapper Motion +, Lodger.

World of Baby Care: Calm baby bottle, Medela AG.

World of Baby Furniture: music furniture by Baff.