When Christoph Steinkuhl, Managing Director of Hamburg-based boat outfitter A.W. Niemeyer, called for the first "Hamburg Boat Show by awn" in 2020, many market players were sceptical about his idea. How is it supposed to work? A replacement event for the hanseboot at the outfitter? But the critics had not reckoned with Steinkuhl's perseverance and the wealth of ideas of his team, above all Head of Marketing Marco Tristram. Despite the coronavirus restrictions, the awn team achieved what many had thought impossible. A mini trade fair that offered visitors everything they could expect from a trade fair on around 5,000 square metres of exhibition space.
Inspired by this success, the second edition was launched at the end of March this year in perfect spring weather. The awn flagship store on Holstenkamp attracted around 1000 visitors on the very first day. At peak times, there were up to 3000 people on site. The exhibitors included boat dealers, who displayed various trailer boats, as well as accessory and equipment suppliers. A soup and bratwurst stand, Janny's ice cream van and, last but not least, the Tchibo company, which provided visitors with fresh coffee, catered for their physical well-being. Of course, the BOOTE showmobile and our Delius Klasing bookstall were also there.
Summarising the impressions of the 60 or so exhibitors and the visitors we interviewed, it can be said that despite the current difficult situation, all those present are starting the coming season in an optimistic mood and the "family and friends" atmosphere of the Hamburg Boat Show was particularly praised. "At last you can see real people again and get your questions answered on the spot," commented one BOOTE reader. Other visitors even spoke of "Christopher's Street Days", alluding to Steinkuhl's first name. The event was rounded off on Saturday evening at a trade fair party with free beer and music from DJ Serious.
The third Hamburg Boat Show has already been scheduled for 23 to 25 March 2023.
Further information on www.awn.de
