The latest edition of Infra Relatiedagen showed only positive figures. On February 6, 7 and 8 no less than 15,800 people visited Evenementenhal Hardenberg, a significant increase compared to 2023 when the fair attracted 13,500 visitors. The number of exhibitors also rose to the maximum of 350, spread across all eight exhibition halls at Evenementenhal Hardenberg. During the three exhibition days, 50% of the exhibitors already immediately registered for the next edition in 2025.
"We proudly look back on three fantastic days of trade fair, during which the ground, road and hydraulic engineering sector showed its finest and best side. It far exceeded our expectations. We can clearly see from our exhibitors and visitors that the quality improvements made with Infra Relatiedagen are paying off. The visitor numbers show that there is great interest from the sector to visit the event, to establish relationships and to be informed about solutions to major issues in the infrastructure sector. During the 25th edition of Infra Relatiedagen in 2025, we will certainly continue to capitalize on this," Irma de Hoon announced on behalf of exhibition organizer Easyfairs.
Both visitors and exhibitors were very satisfied (or positive) about this edition of Infra Relatiedagen. With a massive turnout of visitors who on average rated the event with a nice 8, it can be said that the event was a great success.
Many positive comments were received about the diverse offerings, the pleasant atmosphere and the excellent organization of the fair. Visitors came mainly to network and explore the latest developments in the infrastructure sector. "Well organized fair with very interesting exhibitors. For our industry this is the right place to meet people, maintain relationships and follow new developments," said a visitor working for KWS Infra bv.
Exhibitors at Infra Relatiedagen 2024 have a positive impression of the event, rating it on average with a score of 7.5. For them, participating in the fair is mainly about establishing new relationships and presenting their products and services to an interested audience.
Fons Arkes of JCB, one of the exhibitors: "It is mainly a relationship fair for our customers, our suppliers are also walking around here. In addition, we like to meet customers and relations we don't yet know." This statement underlines the importance of the Infra Relatiedagen as a crucial opportunity for companies to strengthen existing relationships and make new contacts within the infrastructure sector.
Many exhibitors are confident that the next edition will also be another success and want to be assured of their participation in 2025. More than 170 exhibitors have therefore already registered for 2025 during the exhibition days.
We already talked about the big issues in the infra sector. Employment is one of those issues in this industry. Through initiatives such as the College Tour and the Underground Infra Square - which grew out of a unique collaboration between contractors and clients - this is being addressed. More than 1,100 students were introduced to the world of infrastructure in an engaging, active and approachable way. They took part in an escape room, discovered interesting electrical work via a holo-lens and entered into conversation with various companies at the networking plaza. A very instructive experience, both for the students and the exhibitors.
Two interesting knowledge sessions were held at Infra Relatiedagen 2024, which attracted a lot of interest from visitors. On Tuesday, a mini-symposium on the Preliminary Project of infrastructural works took place, on Thursday Rijkswaterstaat and combination Mobilis Croonwolter&dros Haringvlietbrug (CMCH) presented the impressive project on the renovation of the Haringvliet Bridge.
Following the knowledge sessions, visitors were given the opportunity to provide feedback via the Smart Badge. In general, the sessions were evaluated very positively, indicating that they met and possibly even exceeded participants' expectations. This illustrates the value of such substantive programs within events such as Infra Relatiedagen, where professionals can share knowledge, gain insights and build networks.
The exhibition floor was divided into several zones, with each zone bringing a depth of specific themes and innovations within the industry.
One of the notable areas was the Public Lighting Square, where 14 exhibitors presented their latest developments in public lighting.
Tim Bosch, account manager for Infra Relatiedagen: "Upon entering the plaza, visitors were immediately immersed in several live demos related to safety, smart city solutions and circularity. A fascinating example was the scenario where sensors detected when someone approached a crosswalk, after which this path was automatically illuminated, which promoted pedestrian safety but also takes into account biodiversity in the outdoor area and deals efficiently with costs."
The Public Lighting Square was a nice reflection of the industry, with cooperation between parties such as Signify and Schréder nicely reflected in the presentation they gave on lighting intersections to promote safety, reduce light pollution and save costs in the outlying area. Visitors around the plaza were drawn to the fascinating topics and listened to the speakers with enthusiasm.
The Overheid & Markt Kennispark was the place where various government agencies, Rijkswaterstaat and the CROW Knowledge Platform presented themselves. The park provided a platform for quality discussions, facilitating meetings between government agencies, contractors and suppliers.
It was an opportunity for professionals from different sectors to meet, exchange ideas and work together on innovative solutions to challenges within infrastructure. At Kennispark, not only business connections were made, but also knowledge shared and networks strengthened.
A quote from CROW emphasized the importance of the knowledge park: "You literally come into contact here with the people you do the work for. We have knowledge and acquaintances. That a fair like Infra Relatiedagen is organized is of course very nice for us as a knowledge institute."
This year's Construction Site of the Future focused on charging infrastructure, a crucial step towards a more sustainable future. Here visitors found not only innovative solutions, but also inspiration to achieve the 2030 climate goals: the realization of a zero-emission construction site.
Irma: "The focus was on sharing knowledge and gaining inspiration for a smoother transition to zero emissions. Entrepreneurs were educated about subsidies, could have the 'cost of operation' calculated and were inspired by A-players in the market for a smoother transition to a zero emission construction site. By investing in electric equipment and reducing emissions, construction companies can make a significant contribution to reducing their carbon footprint."
Several awards are presented at Infra Relatiedagen each year. These awards not only recognize the efforts and achievements of exhibitors, but also encourage positive and active participation in future editions of Infra Relatiedagen.
Infra Relatiedagen 2025
Next year Infra Relatiedagen will be organized for the 25th time in Evenementenhal Hardenberg. More than 170 exhibitors have already booked their spot at the event for next year: "We are very pleased to see that after all these years so many exhibitors still want to be there right away again," said Irma. "Since it will be an anniversary edition, it will be an even bigger party than it always is. Of course, no one wants to miss this either!" Infra Relatiedagen will be organized in 2025 on February 11, 12 & 13 at Evenementenhal Hardenberg.