Filming until sunrise
12.09.2022 | KraussMaffei

KraussMaffei

Can you still remember your first K trade fair?

Kerstin Schleier

My very first participation in the K show was in 1998, when I worked as a sales assistant in the Reaction Process Machinery sales department. At that time, I was allowed to be there for four days at the information desk.

KraussMaffei

How many K-fairs have you been a part of?

Kerstin Schleier

I have participated in a total of six trade shows: 1998, 2001, 2004, 2007, 2010, and 2013. After my first trade show as a sales assistant, I worked for marketing at all subsequent trade shows.

KraussMaffei

What has been your highlight over the years?

Kerstin Schleier

My highlight was the 2001 trade show. In that year, I was already working in marketing and the entire team was involved in the K trade show project. It was a unique experience for me to witness the set-up and dismantling. You can see how much goes into such a huge project and what has to be taken into account to ensure that the trade show is a complete success - both for the visitors and for my colleagues on site.                                                                                                                                       

I also remember the 2007 trade show with the largest KraussMaffei exhibit to date. The system covered about the entire length of our booth! After the trade show closed, it was filmed for one night. We were busy until sunrise. Despite the efforts, the atmosphere was great - a fantastic experience! 

KraussMaffei

What has changed since you started?

Kerstin Schleier

At my first trade shows in 1998 and 2001, we didn't have cell phones yet.
For the ladies at the information desk in particular, this meant a lot of endurance, patience and comfortable shoes. Because after greeting the customer, either a note was taken for the colleague responsible and deposited in the entrance basket - or one ran off to look for said colleague at the trade show booth.                              

Since the start, the stand construction itself has of course changed. Everything has become more modern, more open and there are many more large picture walls and monitors. The change also affects the exhibits, because the K show always stands for the presentation of new developments in machine and plant technology. Thus, the following applies: After the "K" is before the "K".

KraussMaffei

What is your highlight at this year's K show?

Kerstin Schleier

I look forward to the active exchange with all colleagues on site, who give their best at the booth for 10 hours every day. Overall, to the hustle and bustle on site - that's always a special feeling. I'm also looking forward to the stress that comes with it - and of course to a well-attended booth!