This agreement ensures the continued organisation of the flagship blue innovation dock and Breakfast Meeting, two key events that drive innovation, foster dialogue between industry and policymakers, and improve the sector's competitiveness. Building on the resounding success of the Breakfast Meeting, which took place for the tenth time this year, EBI will continue to play a role in shaping the B2B programme of boot Düsseldorf. Both events serve as important platforms for addressing the key topics of the current market situation, digitalisation and sustainability, as well as presenting strategic insights and growth opportunities.
The agreement was signed by Marius Berlemann (COO Messe Düsseldorf), Petros Michelidakis (Director boot Düsseldorf), Robert Marx (President of EBI) and Philip Easthill (Secretary General of EBI). The joint commitment underlines the importance of continuous cooperation between the industry and the trade fair in shaping the future of the sector.
“For us, the collaboration with EBI is an important building block for expanding the B2B programme at boot Düsseldorf. This interaction gives us the perfect opportunity to attract high-profile speakers for the blue innovation dock sustainability forum. In addition, the breakfast meeting is a valuable medium for industry representatives to network internationally. I am very pleased that we will continue to have a competent partner in the EBI in the future”, explains boot Director Petros Michelidakis.
Philip Easthill, Secretary General of the EBI, also emphasises the importance of the partnership: “The three-year extension of our agreement with boot Düsseldorf is a milestone for the EBI and the industry. It reflects our shared commitment to innovation, collaboration and leadership in addressing tomorrow's challenges and opportunities. We are grateful for the support of boot Düsseldorf.”
boot Düsseldorf will continue to be the central platform for innovation and intensive dialogue with the industry. The next edition of the trade fair will take place from 17 to 25 January 2026. The blue innovation dock stage will present its programme throughout the fair and the Breakfast Meeting is planned for Tuesday, 20 January.
About European Boating Industry (EBI)
EBI represents the recreational boating industry in Europe. It encompasses all related sectors, such as boatbuilding, equipment manufacturing, marinas and service providers. The industry is a significant contributor to the European economy, representing 32,000 companies, predominantly SMEs that employ over 280,000 people directly. The mission of EBI is to advance and represent a sustainable boating and nautical tourism industry #MadeInEurope. More information on EBI’s website: www.europeanboatingindustry.eu
The world's largest yacht and water sports fair
With more than 200,000 visitors from over 100 countries and 1,500 exhibitors on 220,000 square meters in Halls 1 to 17, boot Düsseldorf is the world's largest yacht and water sports fair. Both sailors and motor boaters will find a wide variety of boats, dinghies, superboats or luxury yachts. The popular water sports of diving, surfing, kite surfing, stand up paddling, skimboarding or canoeing are available at boot in all facets and with the appropriate equipment. Attractive stage programs with the stars of the scene, the latest trends and a high-caliber mix of workshops and hands-on activities, both for leisure sports enthusiasts and experts, make the fair unique worldwide. But marine conservation and innovative, sustainable technologies will also be in focus at boot 2026. In cooperation with the European Boating Industry (EBI), for example, the blue innovation dock offers a unique dialogue format with political, economic, technological and media expertise. The next edition of boot Düsseldorf will open its doors from 17 to 25 January 2026. www.boot.com
