Novemeber 8, 2006 -- With the official close of registrations for drupa 2008, Messe Düsseldorf, the organiser of the world’s No. 1 event for the printing and media industry has taken stock of preparations so far. Numerous exhibitors have successfully signed up to participate in drupa 2008 via the new digital registration process, introduced by Messe Düsseldorf. “Registration results so far reflect developments in the industry,” says Manual Mataré, drupa Project Director. “What is particularly striking in this regard is that exhibiting companies with digital solutions in their product portfolios are showing a far greater interest in being showcased at drupa 2008. Compared to 2004, this segment will have grown dramatically, with the result that it will undoubtedly play an important role in shaping the drupa landscape.” Another notable trend among many companies is towards larger stands. “This surge in floor space requirements is not limited to any particular thematic area but is manifest throughout all links in the value chain,” explains Manuel Mataré. Against this backdrop, the construction of two new halls is a welcome development. The two new halls will be located in the north of the Düsseldorf Trade Fair Center and linked directly to the North Entrance as well as the new fairgrounds’ station. Consequently, drupa 2008 will have 19 halls at its disposal, equivalent to a total of 265,000 square metres of gross exhibition space, and be able to respond flexibly to exhibitors’ wishes. The drupa team will be kept very busy. In addition to getting the planned new Web-based visitor registration system up and running, the team will have to adapt the mix of exhibitors to the new hall layout. “Aside from taking the various product segments into account, we have to focus above all on the visitors’ needs – in other words, assemble a demand-oriented presentation,” comments Manuel Mataré. A first draft of the space allocation according to industry sector for drupa 2008 will be on the drupa committee’s agenda at its meeting in January 2007.