[Infographic] Orgatec 2024, Cologne – October 2024

Orgatec 2024, held in Cologne, Germany, at the Kölnmesse complex, marked its centenary with a grand showcase of innovation in furniture and workplace design.

Featuring 729 exhibitors from 40 countries, the event attracted around 50,000 trade visitors over four days, though attendance slightly declined compared to 2022. Themed exhibits, focusing on the circular economy, hybrid workspaces, smart building management solutions, and augmented reality, received mixed feedback for unclear grouping and inadequate signage.

Key trends included soft seating, acoustic pods, and mobile, reconfigurable furniture catering to versatile spaces. Nature-inspired palettes and wellness-centric innovations like sit-stand workstations and treadmills highlighted the growing demand for functional and healthy office environments. German exhibitors dominated the event, with notable contributions from Chinese companies showcasing elevated displays in Hall 10.1. Standout presentations included Humanscale’s reclining chairs, Flokk’s multi-brand seating, and Gotessons’ engaging padel tennis court.

Despite creative exhibits like Schallsauger’s LED Lightbox and LD Seating’s rocking horse, the lack of product innovation and practical thematic grouping remained challenges. Biophilic designs, featuring foliage-integrated dividers, added a green touch to this vibrant exhibition.

[Infographic] Orgatec 2024, Cologne – October 2024