UNITI expo is celebrating its 10th birthday this year. The German trade fair in Stuttgart will be held between May 14-16. One of the new elements will be the Future Mobility Lounge. “Technology is one of the main drivers for the constant evolution of our industries.”

Our German colleagues of Carwashpro.de got to speak with two main players of UNITI: Elmar Kühn and Ben Boroewitsch. The first is managing director of UNITI-Kraftstoff while the latter is responsible for exhibitor acquisition at UNITI expo. Both provide details and insights into this year’s trade fair.

Now that trade fairs and events are part of everyday life again, how do you see the current state of the industry that will be meeting in Stuttgart?

Elmar Kühn: For me, it was important to organize an event that unites the entire industry. In this way, the latest innovations and technologies can be presented directly to all association members and industry professionals. The industry, which will meet at UNITI expo 2024, will once again demonstrate its resilience and innovative potential. I am sure that this year, key decision makers will once again demonstrate new ways and opportunities to navigate through the rapid progress and transformation of the forecourt and carwash industry.

The upcoming edition also marks the tenth anniversary of the event since its premiere. How much has it changed since its first edition?

Elmar Kühn: “Over the years, UNITI expo has grown considerably in both size and scope. Our exhibition space has been the scene of remarkable change, with companies constantly pushing the boundaries by showcasing cutting-edge technologies and ground-breaking solutions at each edition. The global reach of the event has also expanded thanks to its international focus and various initiatives to facilitate travel arrangements, including accommodation packages. Professionals from around the world are increasingly meeting at the show, reflecting its role as a global hub for the industry.”

Ben Boroevich: “The continued support from exhibitors and cooperation partners since our first edition is also a testament to the lasting contribution and impact of UNITI expo. Development is progressing at a rapid pace and with each edition we support this change. We provide a platform for participants to make the most of new business opportunities. The pioneering nature of the event has fostered unique collaborations over the years thanks to its unparalleled networking potential.”

What will be the main themes of this year’s UNITI expo?

Ben Boroevich: “Technology is one of the main drivers for the constant evolution of our industries. With over 90% of the exhibition space already booked, there will be a wide range of cutting-edge equipment on display in the UNITI expo halls. It will showcase the latest trends that are reshaping the landscape of the service station, convenience and carwash sectors. Innovation and diversity are guaranteed for visitors who want to learn more about ground-breaking smart solutions, new mobility trends, the rise of multi-energy/multi-purpose hubs and much more.”

Elmar Kühn: “Our main goal is to stay at the epicenter of this revolution. The introduction of the new Future Mobility Lounge is an important step towards this. It plays a key role at the trade fair in addressing the current transformation – towards alternative fuels and the future of mobility. That is why it also has its own extended area. Training events and presentations can also be found there. They are important to stay ahead of the times. They offer valuable insights from renowned international experts and thought leaders. These panels discuss emerging trends and innovations that will impact customer behavior and shape business strategies around the world.”

Some carwash owners will face a tough choice this year, since UNITI and The Car Wash Show overlap each other, even though they are held on different continents. The Car Wash Show 2024 will be held between May 13-15 in Nashville while UNITI expo is taking place between May 14-16 in Stuttgart.