DTI wraps up Hanover job

Firbank Kempster has been appointed by the Department of Trade and Industry to project- manage and design the UK pavilion at the 1997 Hanover Fair, following an unpaid creative pitch. A source close to the DTI says around 1m is going into the UK’s presence at the event.

The UK is co-hosting the fair with Germany, and the 1600m2 stand will be one of the main attractions at a newly built venue, according to Firbank Kempster director Ian Denny. The project identity will be created by the group’s graphics subsidiary ICP.

Firbank Kempster’s pavilion concept was presented to the DTI as part of a free-pitch believed to include Fitch and an undisclosed consultancy. It is based on a 30m-diameter cylinder which will be elevated ten metres above the ground, creating a separate environment within the exhibition hall. Light levels will be used to maximise the impact of the presentations.

“Hanover is recognised as the world’s largest industrial trade exhibition for the latest developments in industrial technology,” says Denny. “The DTI was looking for a design which would successfully support the UK’s special partner status, as well as create an original showcase for British excellence in commercial and industrial innovation, technology and design,” he adds.

“Our objective was to provide the ultimate experience to engage and capture the visitor’s imagination,” says Denny.

The consultancy pitched with Trade Fair Support, a specialist management agency.