One industry. One voice. One day.

Stronger together: that’s the Federal Conference

The events industry is one of Germany’s largest economic sectors, yet it is often overlooked in political circles. The Federal Conference, which emerged in 2021 from the ‘Alarmstufe Rot’ movement, bridges this gap as an independent, donation-funded platform. Here, everyone has a voice: from solo self-employed individuals to technicians and caterers, right through to senior management. “Our aim is to bring together the industry’s most pressing issues and to put forward genuine, practical policy proposals directly to the ministries,” says Alexander Ostermaier, councillor and managing director of fwd: Federal Association of the Events Industry.

A packed programme for the future of the sector

The one-day event opens its doors at 12 noon and offers a top-class programme running until 6 pm. Following the opening and a review of the political work carried out over the past few months, participants will turn their attention to the industry’s most pressing issues. In various panel discussions, stakeholders will debate the reality of working on Sundays and public holidays, as well as the rigid legal limits on working hours.

Another key focus is the ongoing issue of legally compliant contracting of solo self-employed workers, where the sector is caught between protection and stagnation. The agenda also covers progressive economic policy and the question: how much government regulation can the growth of the events industry withstand?

The centrepiece of the day is the joint vote on the new memorandum of demands, as well as the democratic election of the Council of Representatives for the coming term. From 6.00 pm, there will be an exclusive networking evening on the upper floor of the Allianz Forum, overlooking Pariser Platz, which will provide an opportunity for in-depth discussions and making new contacts over food and drinks. Whilst the day’s programme itself is free of charge, a conference ticket costing 19 euros is required to cover meals during the day; the ticket for the networking evening, which includes food, non-alcoholic and alcoholic drinks, is available for 69 euros.

Every voice counts: become part of the Council

A key part of the annual conference is the search for new, committed members for the Council of Representatives. The Council works on a voluntary basis and brings agreed key demands – such as more flexible weekly working hours – directly to political decision-makers. Anyone who feels they belong to the industry can stand as a candidate for the Council.

“When the events industry speaks with one voice, it is heard,” emphasises Council member Christian Eichenberger, Managing Director of the Rent Group. “We offer everyone a unique opportunity to actively shape the future of our industry, engage in political dialogue and really make a difference. Apply now and become part of a strong network!”

www.bundeskonferenz.org