7th decade: 1984 to 1993 – Leading trade fairs and congresses

During the 1980s, Koelnmesse's leading global trade fairs ensured the company a leading role on the world stage, in spite of fierce international competition. The congress business became increasingly important. The city of Cologne and Koelnmesse therefore decided in 1993 to establish the joint operating company KölnKongress. Since 1994 this company has been marketing the congress business of Koelnmesse and the city's banqueting hall, the Gürzenich. Since 1992 Cologne has been the stage of yet another leading global trade fair – the International Dental Show.