In 2027, water becomes the focus theme of aquanale: from the water cycle and a new exhibition concept to water garden construction in the Green Living segment. In this interview, Director Bettina Frias talks about the trade fair’s new direction and the new target groups it reaches together with FSB under #bettertogether.
Ms Frias, what makes aquanale one of the leading international trade fairs for sauna, pool, wellness and ambience?
aquanale covers the entire spectrum – from swimming pool and pool construction, equipment and technology for private and public pools to sauna, spa, wellness and hot tubs. In 2027, we are expanding the Green Living segment to include water garden construction, a key component of sustainable water management. This allows us to reach out more strongly to landscape architects and landscaping companies who are already trade visitors at FSB and who ideally complement our core target groups: pool construction specialists, architects, planners, municipalities, hotels and operators of public pools.
When does aquanale 2027 take place and what can trade visitors expect?
We are inviting visitors to Cologne from 26 to 29 October 2027, as usual in parallel with FSB. In addition to the exhibition, there is a strong event programme, including the International Swimming Pool and Wellness FORUM and the special themes Sauna from FINLAND and EWA Networking. With a new area for water garden construction, we are also expanding the dialogue within the blue-green industry.
The focus theme for 2027 is water. What is behind it?
Water is becoming the central resource of the future. Climate change, pressure on efficiency and ESG, and the growing need for sustainable rainwater management are noticeably changing the industry. Our storyline follows four pillars of the water cycle: collecting, cleaning, retaining and returning water – or using it intelligently. Many of our exhibitors are already on exactly this path with their innovations.
Our storyline follows four pillars of the water cycle: collecting, cleaning, retaining and returning water – or using it intelligently.
Bettina Frias, Director aquanale
What is new in the exhibition concept?
Together with the DGfnB as conceptual partner, we are planning a networking area for water garden construction in Hall 8. Unlike in 2025, it is located directly in the exhibition hall, so that exhibitors and sponsors can present themselves around the special show. In the expanded product directory, we are showing rainwater management, water storage, sponge gardens and design elements for water gardens under GREEN LIVING for the first time.
Which target groups does aquanale reach through #bettertogether with FSB?
The pool and wellness industry is looking for a larger network in the direction of garden and landscape construction. At the same time, landscaping companies and landscape architects are increasingly coming into contact with pools, water gardens and sponge gardens. Through the trade fair duo, both sides come together – with a joint congress programme and direct professional exchange.
What are you most looking forward to?
New impulses from the swimming pool and sauna industry, innovations for blue-green infrastructure and, above all, personal exchange with partners, exhibitors and friends. After more than 20 years of aquanale, it has long since stopped being a jump into cold water for me.
Contact
Koelnmesse GmbH
Messeplatz 1
50679 Cologne, Germany
Phone: +49 (0) 221 821 2268
Email: aquanale@koelnmesse.de
www.aquanale.com
