The world of the R+T is becoming more digitalised

Vögele: With the announcement of the postponement of the R+T 2021 at the end of July last year, a concept was immediately proposed to present the innovations and new products developed to a worldwide trade audience on a digital platform, the R+T digital. Do you see parallels to digital trade fairs that have taken place so far, such as glasstec or BAU?

Mund: Parallels can be drawn – but my assessments are quite different: The previous digital versions of established offline fairs were primarily characterised by one principle: “We are a sticking plaster until the next time we can meet again at a trade fair!” But I don’t have that impression with the R+T Digital: The Stuttgart Exhibition Centre’s approach comes very close to a real digital marketplace. You actually get a feel for a trade fair event at your desk. And the industry is rewarding us with a high level of participation – after all, more than 300 exhibitors are expected in the virtual exhibition halls. Do you think that users can find their way around the R+T digital?

Vögele: I think so, or rather I am convinced they can. The R+T digital project was conceived and developed from the visitor’s point of view from the very beginning. The old saying “bait must attract the fish, not the fisherman” applies here. This applies right from the design of the R+T digital homepage: The content is short and crisp and easy to navigate. This will continue on the trade fair platform. With the concept of exhibition, presentations, innovations and live events, there will be interesting content for everyone.

Mund: The trade fair emphasises that the Innovation Award is more important than ever for the R+T. When will the industry find out what particularly impressed the jury this year? As a jury member, can you give us a glimpse through the keyhole?

Vögele: The companies nominated for the Innovation Award have been listed on the R+T digital homepage for some time. Corresponding press releases or advertisements in this issue point out the nominated products in more detail, as the case may be. We have highlighted articles of nominated companies with the logo of the Innovation Award. That’s all I’m allowed to say. In any case, all visitors to the R+T can experience the award ceremony digitally this year. What is particularly interesting for you?

Mund: What is particularly interesting for me is the high level of thematic participation from other sectors that have an interface with the sun protection industry. Obviously, some companies have been drawn in by a certain marketplace vacuum so they can address their potential customers and report about their new products. Providing information has always been a central element of specialised media in times of a pandemic and, of course, beyond. In this respect, we wish you a relaxed visit to the fair from the comfort of your sofa – the perfect reading material for the complete spectrum of sun protection is already at your disposal. Stay healthy and cheerful!

Foto:  GLASWELT