SPIEL Essen to expand into Hall 8: Board games now across 80,000 m²

• Maximum venue capacity utilised
• Improved visitor guidance ensures greater comfort

SPIEL Essen continues to strengthen its market position, reaching a new milestone. For the first time, all eight halls of the Essen exhibition grounds will be occupied. As the world’s largest fair for board games, SPIEL Essen is responding to sustained industry demand and utilising the venue’s full capacity. With the opening of Hall 8, the exhibition area expands by approximately 3,700 m2 to a total of 81,200 m2 – marking another record and the fourth consecutive year of growth. Following the addition of Hall 7 last year, this next step further supports the industry’s ongoing development.

Growth on all levels

Eight weeks before the registration deadline, Merz Verlag – a subsidiary of Spielwarenmesse eG – is already seeing an exceptionally high number of exhibitor registrations. This development underscores the industry’s trust in the event and the dynamic nature of the market. Demand is being driven by two main factors: long-standing partners are expanding their booths to showcase new products and highlights to an international audience, while numerous new exhibitors are registering for their first appearance at SPIEL. “Full occupancy is a strong signal for the international significance of SPIEL Essen and the innovative power of the industry,” says Carol Rapp, Managing Director of Merz Verlag.

Optimising the hall structure

Hall 8 will be used as further exhibition space, creating additional room for exhibitors. The hall structure is being strategically optimised to provide both established and new, smaller companies with attractive presentation opportunities. The proven division into thematic areas remains in place, ensuring clear orientation and a high-quality visitor experience while reflecting the diversity of the industry. The fair team is also working on efficient routing, so that visitors and exhibitors benefit from the expanded space.

Focus on visitor comfort

Special attention is being paid to visitor guidance and smooth admission. With the opening of the North Entrance, which leads directly into Hall 5, visitor traffic will be more evenly distributed, relieving the East, West, and South Entrances. In addition, Hall 1A will see a new waiting area, providing covered space for attendees. „Growth also means responsibility. We are working closely with Messe Essen to ensure a positive experience for all participants,” emphasises Carol Rapp.