“The Nordstil Forum addresses the topics currently setting the agenda for the retail sector – from efficient product range design and early trend identification to digital tools that make everyday business easier,” says Susanne Schlimgen, Director of Nordstil. “Our goal is to provide knowledge that can be implemented immediately. Because what really matters are ideas that work – in the store, at the point of sale, and in customer interaction.”
Starting daily at 11:30 a.m., visitors can look forward to hands-on insights from retail professionals. Visual merchandising expert Karin Wahl will use the Nordstil trend islands – themed gentle Elegance and Positive Vibes – to demonstrate how impactful shop window design creates atmosphere, showcases assortments, and sparks emotion.
Communications consultant Henning Harfst will show how digital assistants and AI templates can bring more structure to everyday routines with minimal effort — from interconnected weekly planners and checklists to social media text modules. Elmar Fedderke will also address the opportunities and challenges of digitalisation. He outlines strategies for successful business management in times of AI-driven change, deliberately emphasising the charm of the individual and the personal.
Trend researcher Daniel Schnödt highlights how storytelling, quality of experience and community building are revitalising brick-and-mortar retail and shows why retail needs to become smarter rather than prettier: with relevance, community and content. This is exactly where Ingrid Lang from FrauEinzelhandel comes in. Using tangible practical examples, she shows how community building and branding can sustainably increase reach, customer loyalty and sales.
Sustainability and emotional appeal are also central themes of the programme: master florist Victoria Salomon inspires with floral design ideas that are seasonal, resource-efficient and sales-promoting at the same time.
Dialogue on equal footing
In the panel discussion “Shopping locally”, industry representatives will explore how cooperation, joint marketing and local experiences can strengthen brick-and-mortar retail. Once again, the Nordstil Forum becomes a platform for practical exchange, knowledge transfer and actionable solutions that move retail forward.
To conclude the stage programme, Christoph Puff will offer insights into inspiring spirits and wines that can enrich the point of sale on Saturday and Sunday. On Monday, 12 January, the festive presentation of the Delicacy of the Year and Product of the Year awards will mark the climax of the GenussGipfel and serve as a fitting finale to the Nordstil Forum.
The complete Nordstil Forum programme overview is available on the Nordstil website.
Nordstil Winter will take place from 10 to 12 January 2026.
GenussGipfel (Gourmet Summit) will take place on 11 and 12 January 2026.
Nordstil Summer will take place from 25 to 27 July 2026.
Travel & Access
Nordstil is easy to reach via three entrances: West (Schanzenviertel/Sternschanze), Mitte and Ost (Stephansplatz/Dammtor). All entrances are directly connected to public transport, providing fast and convenient access to the exhibition halls.
Information for journalists: Further details and photographic material of Nordstil can be found at https://nordstil.messefrankfurt.com/hamburg/en/press.html.
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