In 2003, the world’s largest international trade fair for newspaper professionals is to be held in Leipzig, Germany.

The first-time choice of Leipzig, located in former East Germany, not only gives Ifra exhibitors and visitors the opportunity of establishing and renewing contacts in traditional markets, but also offers the chance of creating new openings in Eastern Europe.

In this respect, there could not be a more apt venue for the publishing industry than Leipzig. The city and fair complex are a fantastic combination of renewal and tradition. The venue will be the Leipziger Messe, one of the most up-to-date exhibition centers in Europe. Opened in 1996, the five-hall complex is dominated by a breathtaking central glass hall, a steel-frame arch construction 264 feet (80 meters) wide, 802 feet (243 meters) long and 99 feet (30 meters) tall.

Meanwhile, Leipzig’s bustling restaurants, shopping complexes and extensive modern hotel and transport infrastructure make it easy to forget that innovatory publishing in the city goes way back. Leipzig’s first book printing press opened for business in 1485, with the world’s first daily newspaper appearing in the city in 1650.

“We’re really looking forward to going to Leipzig,” said Jamie Davies, director of marketing and expo for Ifra. “IfraExpo 2003 in Leipzig promises the opportunity to find out about innovations in the publishing industry more comprehensively than ever.”

Ifra 2001: virtually better than ever

This year, however, IfraExpo 2001 in Geneva, Switzerland, Oct. 15-18, promises to be just as exciting. In total, 250 exhibitors have already signed up for some 59,400 square feet (18,000 square meters) of exhibition space. Furthermore, IfraExpo 2002 in Barcelona Oct. 14-17, 2002, is already shaping up nicely. More than 46,200 square feet (14,000 square meters) of exhibition space has already been reserved by 126 early birds.

This year, for the first time, IfraExpo 2001 is to be accompanied by a complementary VirtualExpo, supplementing the live exhibition. VirtualExpo will be the industry’s first virtual exhibition. With VirtualExpo’s leading-edge technology, visitors will be able to tour exhibitors’ virtual stands from Ifra’s Web site from Oct. 1 to Nov. 14. A whole range of virtual stands come with photos, graphics, brochures and downloads. Find out what a stand looks like by visiting www.ifra.com.