Spiel to occupy all eight halls of Messe Essen for first time this year

Spiel Essen is growing and will occupy all eight halls of Messe Essen for the first time this year.

This step is ‘a direct response to the overwhelming interest from the industry’.

With the addition of the new hall, the total area of SPIEL Essen increases by approximately 3,700 m², bringing the fair to a total size of 81,200 m² this year.

“The fact that we can already plan the opening of a new hall and the full occupancy of the grounds is fantastic – it’s a sign of both the international importance of our fair and the vitality of the gaming industry,” said Carol Rapp, Managing Director of Merz Verlag.

“Spiel and the industry are growing, and we are creating the necessary space for this development.”

Spiel is converting the former Hall 8 – which previously served as a waiting area – into a full exhibition space. This expansion necessitates adjustments to the existing hall structure, which the fair team is currently working on. Despite some shifts in sections, the halls will remain divided into clear categories.

The move will see Spiel will open the North Entrance for the first time this year, which leads directly into Hall 5. This additional entrance looks to relieve the East, West and South entrances, and also guide visitor flow more directly into Halls 5 and 4.

In addition, a new waiting area will be established in Hall 1A, which can be accessed via the Congress Center South.

Rapp added: “For us, growth also means responsibility. We are working closely with the venue to ensure the experience remains positive for every fan.

“The experience of recent years shows that our planning has led to good visitor flow in the halls and that many routes at the fair have improved overall. I am absolutely confident that with the new measures, we will create an even better entry situation, allowing all visitors to enjoy Spiel in a relaxed atmosphere.”

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