This year, the 67th edition of the world’s biggest book market event takes place from 14 to 16 October, where else, in Frankfurt, Germany.

Every year, about 7,300 exhibitors from more than 100 countries, around 275,000 visitors, more than 4,000 events, 9,000 journalists and over 1,000 bloggers all combine to make the Frankfurt Book Fair the biggest trade fair for the international publishing industry.

And, why not, since this is the place where the entire industry gathers, where trends and new business segments are discovered. Here you can take part in international self-publishing and author programmes and here, the Business Club offers you the most relevant conferences and seminars of the publishing industry.

Prashasti Rastogi, director, German Book Office, New Delhi, explains the importance of Frankfurt Book Fair: “As we advance technologically, I often get questioned about the relevance of book fairs. Having attended a few editions of the Frankfurt Book Fair and being on the other side, I feel it’s not only about the business but also about breaking the virtual barriers to interact with people – as its people who make this industry. With over 7300 exhibitors, droves of trade visitors, 1600 journalists, it continues to be the best attended, most diverse and the largest book fair.”

And there are business opportunities, not just for book publishers, but also for printers, as the fair remains the best place for showcasing products and making contacts with publishers around the world.

“In case of printers, the deals may not be done at the fair, but the network is expanded and a way is paved for future communication. All the more, it’s important for a prospective customer to see, touch and feel the quality of products that a printer has the capabilities for – no instant communication technology can make that possible. It’s also a place to learn about the developments or the marketplace and all of this happens within five days in one place,” Rastogi argues.

According to GBO sources, four Indian printers have confirmed their participation at Frankfurt Book Fair this year. They are Thomson Press, Replika Press, Nutech, and Ajanta (in the pipeline).

Thus, according to Rastogi, Frankfurt is not just a trade fair, it is a place where old ties are reinforced and new friends are made. “I hear from people about their Frankfurt reunions, mostly drinks or dinner rituals where they exchange information or seek advice on different fronts. Long live the fair, say many, who have their calendars marked out year after year,” she adds.

India at Frankfurt
Meanwhile, the German Book Office, New Delhi is collaborating on organising the following events at Frankfurt Book Fair 2015.

My World, My Writing: Readings by Indian Authors

Date: 15 October 2015

Time: 11 am-12 pm

Venue: Forum International Dialogue Hall 5.1

Sahitya Akademi, the Indian academy of letters, will be hosting the literary event featuring illustrious authors like K Jayakumar (Malayalam), Raghav Chandra (Indian English), DP Sinha (Hindi) and Joe Dcruz Remigius Nicholas (Tamil) at the international event stage, the Forum Dialogue at the Frankfurt Book Fair. K Sreenivasarao, secretary, Sahitya Akademi, will lead the delegation.

South and South-East Asia: A production Hot Spot

Date: 16 October 2015

Time: 12-01 pm

Venue: Forum Production Hall 4.0

From interactive books, educational mobile apps to innovations in print – the shores of Asia offer a world of services to meet the needs of cost-effective production for the publishing industry. Meet successful service providers from India, Singapore, Malaysia and Philippines as they present the trends, success stories and tricks of the trade from the region.

There is more.

The Markets: Global Publishing Summit

This is a new event from the Frankfurt Book Fair and Publishing Perspectives that showcases seven strong and vibrant publishing regions (China, Turkey, the US, Mexico, Indonesia, Germany, and South Korea). You’ll hear from the influencers from each of these markets, get insights from professionals working there, and meet the relevant people who can help you to expand your business abroad. Learn more about this event at http://www.themarkets2015.com/

29th International Rights Directors Meeting

The meeting will bring together the Who’s Who of the international rights trade. This year’s programme is as diversified and fascinating as the rights markets it targets. Experts from France and Southeast Asia will provide you with precise insights into their respective markets. Learn all about the French publishing market and how to win over even the most reluctant acquisition editor; be inspired by the vast opportunities and huge potential the young, fast growing Southeast Asian markets offer; make sure you are on top of everything regarding digital and finish the afternoon by catching up with colleagues from all over the world.