"Touching and trying out products are at the core of REHACARE"

It's finally back! After a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic, REHACARE is returning to Messe Düsseldorf’s exhibition halls. Trade visitors and exhibitors can once again get first-hand information, present their business, and interact on site. Hannes Niemann, Project Director for REHACARE, made it possible for this to become a reality again. In this interview, we talked about his goals and personal highlights of this year's REHACARE.

Less than a week to go before REHACARE will open its doors again, but the organization and planning of the trade show has been underway for quite some time. What goals have you and your project team set for REHACARE 2022?

Hannes Niemann: First let me say that we are delighted the event will finally take place again following the long hiatus. At the beginning of this year, everything was still on shaky ground. Since then, we are off to a great start and we received a lot of encouragement and response from exhibitors, partners, associations, etc.

Current visitor registrations are inspiring confidence, which means we aim to attract over 40,000 visitors. Our primary focus is a successful relaunch of the trade fair and facilitate a great event for both visitors and exhibitors. We are on the right trajectory for next week!

Do you have a personal highlight that is a must-see for you at the trade fair?

Niemann: Given the wide range of topics and products, I find it difficult to pick out just one specific piece. Of course, the Sports Center is always a highlight, especially since it features a new concept this year. I look forward to seeing it.

Another exciting aspect is exoskeletons. The topic has been on our agenda for many years but emphasizes a different perspective at this year’s REHACARE: We partnered with the Fraunhofer Institute to explore exoskeleton use in occupational rehabilitation. This is going to be exciting!

The exhibiting companies will present their new products and innovations. I think you just need to be flexible and go with the flow and discover exciting things at the different stands.

Do you have time to try out the sailboat or wear an exoskeleton? After all, being able to experience products up close and personal again is the keystone of REHACARE.

Niemann: That’s right. There are once again many opportunities to touch and try out products, which is at the core of this event. This will differ greatly from the recent digital presentations and events, which is why it’s on my list to take a closer look at some exhibits when they are not as crowded.