Cersaie, the significance of the record figures

The attendance figures for the last three editions of Cersaie following the Covid lockdown have been increasing steadily. In 2021 there were 62,000 attendees, followed by 91,000 in 2022 and 99,000 in 2023. This upward trend indicates a gradual return to record levels, while a closer analysis of the figures reveals a number of interesting characteristics of the International Exhibition of Ceramic Tile and Bathroom Furnishings.

Firstly, the breakdown of the admission figures shows that Cersaie has become more international than ever, with 169 nations represented in 2023 compared to 157 in previous years. Additionally, visitors are spending more time at the show, with an average stay of more than two days. Another positive trend concerns the quality of buyers. Despite fewer company representatives attending due to higher travel costs – a trend that appears to apply regardless of geographical location – those who do participate are more highly qualified.

In addition, growth in attendance over the past three years has taken place in profoundly different market contexts. In 2021, when the world was just beginning to emerge from lockdown, Cersaie was the only trade fair in Europe to be held on a similar scale to the pre-pandemic period with a total of 15 occupied halls. In 2022, the show was characterised by the very strong global demand for ceramic surfaces against a backdrop of spiralling energy costs. In contrast, Cersaie 2023 took place amid sharply rising interest rates, a slump in real estate transactions and mortgage approvals, and high inflation worldwide. For months now, these factors have dampened investment prospects for households and businesses, resulting in a significant contraction in production and sales volumes.

The growth in interest and participation in Cersaie under such diverse market conditions confirms its countercyclical nature and its ability to attract exhibitors and visitors regardless of market dynamics. This underscores its importance for the ceramic industry and the pivotal role it plays within the context of trade fairs devoted to ceramic tiles and bathroom furnishings.

The next edition of Cersaie will take place from 23 to 27 September 2024

October 2023