baby&junior: Kind + Jugend opens its doors today. Are you satisfied with the registration numbers and what were the biggest challenges during the preparations?

Jörg Schmale: Despite the ongoing challenges in the global economy, we are really pleased with the registration numbers for Kind + Jugend 2025. Presently, we are expecting over 800 exhibitors from 44 countries to join us in Cologne in September. They are spread pretty evenly across our seven theme worlds, which together reflect the full spectrum of high-quality baby and toddler products.

As for the preparations, the biggest challenge was definitely planning the hall layout because many companies made additional changes to their space requirements. Also the fact that we were once again able to deliver such a comprehensive international event despite the economic turbulence is by no means a given. We are incredibly proud and happy about that.

(Laughing) And it wasn't always easy to have enough coffee and cookies in stock for all the extra shifts during the busiest phases!

bab&junior: Following the schedule change, the trade fair will again be held from Tuesday to Thursday. What were the reasons for this decision?

Jörg Schmale: Following its successful introduction last year, Kind + Jugend 2025 will again take place over three consecutive weekdays, from Tuesday, 9 September to Thursday, 11 September. Holding the event in the second week of September was a conscious decision. Rather than overlapping with Maison & Objet in Paris, it will now follow immediately after. This has been very well received by many international market players and made trade fair planning much easier.

The new schedule focuses on traditional business days – in line with the needs of the industry. The weekend format was no longer practical for many exhibitors and trade visitors. We listened carefully and found a solution that better meets the requirements of the industry.

baby&junior: Hall 11.2 will feature the new “Trend Space” for the first time. What can visitors expect?

Jörg Schmale: The new “Trend Space – Playground for Innovation, Networking & Knowledge” in Hall 11.2 brings fresh momentum to the trade fair by gathering together everything that is driving the industry in one central location – new ideas, forward-looking trends, expert insights and real encounters.

Located in the heart of the trade fair, the “Consultation & Knowledge Hub” is a modern lounge area offering an excellent lineup of talks and panel discussions on key industry topics. Visitors will also have the opportunity to receive personalised advice from experts with a focus on point-of-sale (POS) design and trend insights.

A major draw of the hub is the “Innovation Award Exhibition” showcasing nominees and winners of the 2025 Innovation Awards in an attractive and engaging format.

And of course, visitors can also take a short coffee break. The integrated Café Bar is the perfect place to unwind, recharge and connect with others in a relaxed atmosphere – all of this with no time pressure and with more things to talk about.

baby&junior: What other highlights can we look forward to?

Jörg Schmale: Besides the new “Trend Space”, the annual presentation of the “Innovation Award” and additional “Midwives’ Choice” award are key highlights of the trade fair.

Also interesting is the “New Product Trail” in Hall 10.2, where visitors can get a comprehensive look at the year’s most promising new products.

We’re also pleased to see the return of an international presence in 2025. For the first time in years, both a British pavilion and a Danish group stand will be back on the floor – a welcome sign of Europe’s growing participation in the event.

baby&junior: Are there any trends already taking shape that we’ll see at Kind + Jugend?

Jörg Schmale: For sure. A number of trends are already emerging. Sustainability continues to be a top priority for the industry — in terms of materials, production methods and durability.

There’s also strong demand for smart, adaptable products that grow with the child, like high chairs, beds and clothing – these are really popular right now.

Multifunctionality is also still a key consideration. Parents are looking for practical, flexible, cleverly designed products for everyday use. And there are some truly exciting ideas and solutions out there, such as suitcases that transform into strollers, bags that open into play mats, customisable twin strollers and bike trailers that convert into comfortable wagons in just a few simple steps.

Another growing trend is the increasing digitalisation of everyday family life. Today’s car seats can now be adjusted via app, swivel automatically towards the door or sound an alert if the child unfastens the belt. Smart monitoring solutions are also on the rise — such as cameras that detect potential hazards like stovetops and power outlets and send out early warnings.

And last but not least, the industry is all about creative design and attention to detail. From playful backpacks, high-quality bath accessories to lovingly crafted textiles — Kind + Jugend once again shows how functionality and aesthetics can go hand in hand beautifully.