TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The world's largest trade show for consumer electronics and home appliances, IFA (Internationale Funkausstellung Berlin), is set to take place in Berlin, Germany, from Sept. 1 to 5. With travel picking up, this nearly century-old expo expects to draw around 200,000 visitors and has designated Taipei as the premier promotional city in Asia.
Having been part of IFA for nearly two decades, Dirk Koslowski, global brand director at IFA Management, discussed significant trends in the consumer electronics industry and highlighted key features of this year's trade fair during an interview with TVBS on Wednesday (May 31).
Dirk emphasized that IFA's primary goal this year is to offer a platform for visitors and consumers to connect, focusing on engaging a broader audience from Generations Y and Z. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore various exhibition areas and discover the latest consumer electronics products. IFA also organizes leadership summits that delve into chat GPT, artificial intelligence (AI), metaverse, and semiconductor chips.
As nations compete for chip dominance, there were reports that Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC) plans to construct its first chip fabrication plant in Germany, marking its entry into the European Union. Dirk highlighted that European and U.S. manufacturers, impacted by chip shortages due to the pandemic, must reassess their options to ensure product stability. Increased competition and manufacturing capacities can bring positive changes to the semiconductor industry.
One notable addition to this year's IFA is the inaugural Sustainable Village. Dirk explained that exhibitors will showcase how they incorporate sustainability into their businesses to make this topic more tangible and practical. This initiative holds significant relevance because of the increasing importance of sustainability for governments and companies.
Dirk also mentioned a few changes in consumer behavior in Europe since the COVID-19 lockdowns, including a heightened preference for small domestic appliances and a willingness to upgrade personal home devices.
