The traditional KINO film theatre congress will be held in Hamburg from 2026. This was announced by Christine Berg, CEO of HDF KINO, at the start of this year's congress in Baden-Baden. With the change of location, the organiser is pursuing the goal of strategically developing the event further.

The KINO-Kongress is regarded as the central meeting of the German cinema industry. In her opening speech, Berg emphasised the need for a reliable and well-funded federal cinema investment programme. She also emphasised the importance of the accompanying trade fair, which, with over 75 exhibiting companies, creates a framework for exchange between cinema operators and industry partners. The trade fair makes it possible to present and discuss technological innovations and services directly.

The new Hamburg location will offer improved infrastructural conditions and stronger links to the film and media scene. The Hanseatic city is regarded as an important media centre with an international reputation. According to Berg, the move should help to further expand the role of the congress as a driving force for the industry.

Natalie Blum, Managing Director of hdfstudio, also emphasised the role of the trade fair in cinema success. In addition to the film, technical equipment, ambience, snacks and digital infrastructure are particularly important - services that are provided by long-standing partner companies of the trade fair.

This year's congress in Baden-Baden, which runs until 15 May, thus marks the departure from the long-standing venue. The HDF KINO is planning to organise the change

Image generated with AI, chat GPT