With more than 80 workshops across 42 topics, the Congress offered a wide spectrum of expertise. From sales strategies for new product launches to innovative marketing concepts and recruitment approaches: the interactive formats provided participants with concise knowledge and fresh ideas for their businesses and markets. In addition to workshops led by staff from the group headquarters, around 40 industry partners showcased their latest products, technologies and concepts for specialist retail. The exhibition stands were well attended between the presentations – among the guests was Leif Lindner, CEO of IFA Berlin, who was also represented with his own stand.
Marco Lindau, owner of EP:Lindau, reflected on his visit: “There’s no substitute for personal interaction. The atmosphere is like an annual class reunion. Everyone is having fun, eager to learn and, most importantly, we return to our daily business with a suitcase full of ideas, fresh inspiration and valuable know-how.” MEDIMAX newcomer Christopher Rilke agreed: “This is my first Congress and I will definitely be coming back! The contacts I make here with industry representatives and fellow entrepreneurs, as well as the broad workshop programme, make this event a must for me from now on.”
WENDEpunkt and a new repair network
One of the most visited stands was that of WENDEpunkt: interest in the brand for sustainable energy solutions remains consistently high. Numerous members sought information not only about developments in the renewable energy sector but also about WENDEpunkt’s expanded portfolio of services, partners and products. “This market is very dynamic and not always easy to navigate – and that is exactly where WENDEpunkt Managing Director Christoph Eickmanns and his team come in. With their holistic solutions, they support both experienced entrepreneurs and newcomers who wish to enter the sales of products and services in the field of renewable energies,” explained Friedrich Sobol, Member of the ElectronicPartner Board.
Another key topic at this year’s Congress was the ‘Repair Network’ planned by ElectronicPartner in cooperation with Telering. Gardy Kanzian, Head of Repair Services, together with the partner companies Weyrauch Repair, Krix Academy, ASWO and Wertgarantie, introduced the new concept. “We are addressing this issue in a targeted way: Gardy Kanzian has done excellent work and actively recruited. Since the weekend, all interested retailers can register to participate in the planned network and indicate their competences and capacities,” said Matthias Assmann, Member of the ElectronicPartner Board.
Evening gala and conclusion
The two-day event concluded on Saturday evening with a grand gala under the motto “The Congress Rocks”. After Friedrich Sobol thanked everyone in his speech for their commitment in 2024 and motivated them for a successful business year in 2025, the party began. To the sounds of top acts Sweet and Manfred Mann’s Earth Band, participants transformed the Crowne Plaza Hotel into a rock concert.
“With its interactive format, carefully chosen topics and the most important product trends, the ElectronicPartner Congress has once again proven its worth,” summarised Matthias Assmann, adding: “Members, franchise partners and industry representatives alike have told us how effective this event is for them. This positive feedback demonstrates that the Congress is not only a platform for knowledge transfer, but also a significant networking event that sets the course for a strong and future-proof consumer electronics trade.”
