IDS – are you going to be there?

In this article we want to talk about Cologne and the International Dental Show. Held only every 2 years its billed as the world’s leading trade fair for the dental community. In 2025 it will be the 41^st show, and will attract over 120,000 visitors from more than 160 different countries – so definitely living up to its ‘global’ claims! Watch the video to find out more …

WHY YOU SHOULD CONSIDER ATTENDING

You may have concerns about spending time out of your business and the expense associated with overseas travel, a key factor in any decision to attend events like these. Talking to Lucy and Paul, they throw up some interesting considerations, why they feel that going to major events such as IDS will always be part of their business plans, together with some of their top tips for your visit!

1.To stay up-to-date

IDS is often referred to as ‘shaping the future of the dental industry.’ It brings together dentists, technicians and visionaries who collectively create new standards and comprehensive dental solutions through state-of-the art AI, diagnostics, and high precision 3D. There is no where else like it, its huge – so huge in fact that on leaving the show one year through a different exit we found ourselves in a completely new hall that we had inadvertently missed. However, the Eurostar called so we had no time to see it.

TOP TIP – if you want to see it all, plan your visit.

2. To seek out new products and suppliers

It’s always exciting to see new things but more importantly, to be able to identify new products that will strengthen your portfolio. Over the years we have been lucky enough to come back with some great innovations as many suppliers choose this show as a launch platform. We remember bumping into a colleague with an armful of brochures (his shortlist for the scanner he aimed to buy following months of research). Within an hour of entering the show he had ditched his brochures, as the product had already moved way beyond his research and there were so many more other brands to select from.

TOP TIP – Go with an open mind to explore what’s new.

3. To meet, maintain and build new business relationships face to face

It’s a great opportunity to catch up with our suppliers, talk outside of the usual business emails and help cement relationships. We are lucky enough to be entertained by many companies so it also provides us with the chance to chat to other dealers from other countries, find out what is working for them and generally swap ideas.

TOP TIP – Catch up – fact find – ask questions – share experiences.

4. To take time out of the business

We’re sure most of you will agree that running a business is hard going and too often taken up by the everyday minutiae. Away from it all, but surrounded by the innovative dental community, it provides a great platform for reflection and the opportunity to think, take stock and talk. Its motivating to spend time amongst innovation, inspiring new ideas and perhaps new directions for what’s next and where to you can take your business.

TOP TIP – Explore the future for your business, no holds barred!

5. To discover architecture, chocolate, and beer!

Don’t miss The Dom – the stunning Cologne Cathedral, a magnificent example of Gothic architecture, renowned for its impressive twin spires, vast interior space and beautiful stained-glass windows. If you are more into sweet treats, then hot foot it to the Lindt chocolate factory. You’re best off booking a visit but you can still visit the chocolate fountain, the Lindt shop and the café without one. Both the food and beer are amazing in the Brauhausers and the Kolsch brewery is well worth a visit to experience the local beer culture, history, and food and sample the top-fermented beer. Papa Joes Bierhaus is a quirky bar where the good and the great from our industry tend to congregate in an evening, always a good atmosphere and somewhere you will always find someone you know.

TOP TIP – Watch your beer intake – refills keep on coming until you say no!

SEE YOU THERE?

We hope we have whetted your appetite to make the trip and attend this must visit dental showcase. It really is relevant to every single person and job role across our fascinating industry so please do let us (Paul or Lucy) know if you are planning to visit, as we say “to keep up-to-date – you just have to go to Cologne!”

You can follow this link for further details and to book your ticket: https://www.english.ids-cologne.de/