When and where is CMS Berlin?

CMS Berlin 2027 takes place from 21 to 24 September 2027 at Messe Berlin South Entrance

Is there an official app for the event?

Yes, the CMS App is available for download from the Apple Store and Google Play Store, offering exhibitor and product information, interactive hall plans, and networking features

Where can I find the latest programme and speaker updates?

The official programme overview is published on the CMS Berlin website at https://www.cms-berlin.de/en/program/program-overview. The agenda for 2027 is not yet published.

How can I contact the organiser?

You can reach the general enquiry team by email at cms@messe-berlin.de or by phone at +49 30 3038 2035 For press-related inquiries, contact Ilka Dreimann, PR Operations Manager, at ilka.dreimann@messe-berlin.de or +49 30 3038 2267

CMS Cleaning, Management, Services

Event overview

Overview

The CMS – Cleaning. Management. Services.

– is the international trade fair for cleaning systems, building management, and services, held biennially in Berlin. The 2027 edition will take place from 21 to 24 September at the Berlin ExpoCenter City. As Europe's leading trade fair for cleaning and hygiene, CMS Berlin offers a comprehensive overview of the industry, from technological innovations to practical applications.

The event combines a trade exhibition with B2B meetings, networking events, and practice-relevant presentations and discussions. It is organised by Messe Berlin- in partnership with key industry associations including the Federal Guild Association of the Building Cleaning Trade (BIV), the Cleaning Systems Trade Association in the VDMA, and the IHO The 2025 edition hosted 441 exhibitors from 30 countries and attracted around 22,800 trade visitors, underlining its position as the key meeting place for the global cleaning industry

TL;DR

1Europe's leading B2B trade fair for cleaning, hygiene, and facility management – the must-attend event for the professional cleaning industry
2Over 34,000 m² of exhibition space featuring high-tech cleaning machines, digital building management tools, and sustainable hygiene solutions
3Direct access to over 22,800 qualified trade visitors, with 83% holding decision-making authority – ideal for generating qualified leads -
4120+ live demonstrations and 60+ expert presentations provide hands-on experience and deep industry insights
5Central networking hub for decision-makers from building cleaning, healthcare, hospitality, industry, and public infrastructure sectors

Why visit

CMS Berlin is the central showcase for the latest developments, innovations, and trends in the international cleaning industry. As a visitor, you will have the unique opportunity to be inspired by leading companies from around the world, discover cutting-edge products and services, and take part in expert discussions. Experience a comprehensive market overview with a wide range of products and services from all areas of commercial cleaning technology, presented by more than 441 exhibitors. Immerse yourself in the world of innovation with 120 live demonstrations and over 60 expert presentations, giving you unique insight into the latest technologies. Make valuable contacts with experts, colleagues, and decision-makers – CMS Berlin is the perfect place to expand your network and exchange views on current challenges and solutions. Gain access to the entire commercial cleaning industry and discover the next generation of solutions for cleaning systems, building management, and services

Why exhibit

CMS Berlin 2027 offers you as an exhibitor the perfect stage to make your products, brands, and innovations internationally visible. From 21–24 September 2027, you will meet decision-makers, buyers, and visionaries from all areas of professional cleaning, hygiene, and facility management in Berlin. The CMS Berlin brings your products directly to the relevant target audience – on no other trade fair can you reach such a qualified audience in such a short time. Your target groups are all on-site at once: decision-makers from building cleaning, facility management, and textile care; representatives from municipalities, authorities, and public procurement; hygiene officers from hospitality, catering, and communal catering; experts from industry (food, non-food, pharma, mechanical engineering, automotive); hygiene professionals from hospitals and care facilities; and operators from transport and infrastructure. Benefit from 34,000 m² of exhibition space for your machines, systems, services, and premieres 83% of trade visitors are decision-makers – perfect conditions for successful discussions and qualified sales leads. Additionally, German start-ups can apply for funding through the BMWK (Young Innovators) programme to exhibit at a subsidised joint stand

Attendees, exhibitors & solutions

Who this event is for

Visitor profile

Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.

Cleaning service providers, building cleaners, and facility managers looking for innovative solutions, equipment, and services

Public sector buyers and contracting authorities from cities, municipalities, schools, sports facilities, and universities seeking efficient procurement for public buildings

Healthcare and nursing professionals from hospitals, clinics, care homes, and social/rehabilitation centres requiring the highest hygiene standards

Hospitality, gastronomy, and communal catering operators – from hotels and restaurants to canteens and commercial kitchens – needing professional hygiene solutions

Industry and production professionals from mechanical engineering, food, pharmaceutical, non-food, automotive, and shipyard sectors requiring process-safe cleaning solutions

Transport and infrastructure operators from airports, train stations, public transport companies, and fleet operators needing efficient cleaning for high-traffic areas

Exhibitor profile

Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.

Manufacturers of cleaning machines, systems, and accessories – from floor cleaning machines to sweepers and vacuum cleaners

Producers of chemical cleaning products, industrial hygiene solutions, and care agents

Providers of digital tools for facility management, including building management software, sensors, and planning tools

Suppliers of workwear, protective clothing, and textile care services

Security and facility service providers

Consultancies, training providers, and trade media serving the cleaning and facility management industry

Start-ups and young innovators with disruptive technologies and solutions for the cleaning and hygiene sector

Product categories

Key solution areas showcased across the event.

Cleaning machines and systems

Building cleaning (interior & exterior)

Cleaning equipment and materials

Chemical cleaning and care products

Industrial hygiene products

Technical operating equipment

Workwear and protective clothing

Facility management software

Cleaning and care services

Safety and waste disposal services

Security and facility services

Digital tools for facility management

Consulting, training and trade media

Location & Facilities

Venue

Open in Google Maps

Messe Berlin

Messedamm 22, 14055 Berlin, Germany

Entrances & gates

South Entrance (Messe Süd)

Nearest S-Bahn station: Messe Süd (S3, S5, S9). Approximately 5 minutes walking distance

North Entrance (Messe Nord/ICC)

Nearest S-Bahn station: Messe Nord/ICC (S41, S42, S46). Approximately 10 minutes walking distance

Facilities

Parking

Limited parking spaces available in lots P17 and P18 during the trade show (including setup and dismantling) at a daily rate of €15. Total of 12,000 parking spaces on and around the grounds.

12,000 spaces · €15.00/day

Accessibility

Messe Berlin is fully accessible. All entrances and exhibition halls are designed to be barrier-free. Wheelchair access is available, and there are designated entrances, rest areas, and on-site assistance. Accessible restrooms are available throughout the grounds. Information on accessible connections in Berlin can be found at http://berlin.travelable.info/en/.

Prayer rooms

A 'Room of Silence' (Raum der Stille) is located in Hall 6 on the ground floor, open to visitors, staff, and exhibitors for prayer and reflection during trade fair hours.

Cloakroom

Cloakrooms are available at the South Entrance and in Hall C. Costs are approximately €3 per coat/item. Large cloakrooms are also in the basement of Hall 19 (2,650 hooks).

Luggage storage

Luggage storage is available at Entrance East and Entrance West. Cost is approximately €6 per bag. Suitcases and larger luggage must be checked at the luggage tents before the entrances.

Charging points

No official information found for public EV charging points specifically for CMS Berlin 2027. EV charging stations have been available for exhibitors at some events at Messe Berlin-, but availability for general visitors is not confirmed.

Food options

On-site catering and restaurants

On-site dining

Parking: For the entire duration of the trade show (including set-up and dismantling), limited parking spaces are available in parking lots P17 and P18 at a daily rate of €15

Gate: Access for freight and booth deliveries is managed via loading zone bookings through VisiFair. Entry is only possible with registration and booking of a loading zone

Attend

Entry & tickets

Trade-only

Event days & opening times

DayOpening hours

Tuesday – Thursday:10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Friday:10:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Ticket info

Ticket notes

Tickets can only be purchased online. There will be no on-site sales. The ticket shop for CMS Berlin 2027 will open in spring 2027

Who runs the show

Organisers

Messe Berlin GmbH

Organiser

Website

Ilka Dreimann

PR Operations Manager

Email Call Website

CMS Berlin General Enquiry

General Information

Email Call Website

What's on

Programme

Topic tracks

Digitalization & Smart CleaningSustainability & Green CleaningInnovation & RoboticsFacility Management & ServicesHygiene & Health

Awards

Purus Innovation Award

Biennial (held Every CMS Berlin Edition)

One of the most coveted industry awards, honoring outstanding innovations in cleaning, hygiene, and sustainable solutions. The award recognizes products, tools, and systems that impress with high application quality and outstanding overall concept. The PIA is awarded in six categories: cleaning machines, robotics/AI, equipment, washroom hygiene, digital tools and systems, and cleaning agents. The jury comprises eight renowned industry experts.

Cleaning MachinesRobotics / AIEquipmentWashroom HygieneDigital Tools and SystemsCleaning Agents

source

Government supporters

German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWE)

Sponsor of the Innovation Circle joint stand for start-ups and newcomers

How the last edition performed

Previous edition

Current edition

2027 · 15,510 visitors · 354 exhibitors

The next CMS Berlin will take place from 21–24 September 2027 at Messe Berlin. No estimates for exhibitor or visitor numbers have been published yet.

Forecast — not final

Visitors

22,800

Exhibitors

441

Floor area (sqm)

34,000

Exhibitor countries

Visitor countries

Growth over time

New this edition

1
Focus Day on Housekeeping and Hospital Cleaning
For the first time, the supporting programme included a dedicated focus day on housekeeping and hospital cleaning, addressing specific challenges and solutions for these sectors
Source
2
Increased International Visitor Share
CMS 2025 significantly increased its share of trade visitors from neighbouring European countries, including Austria, Poland, Switzerland, Denmark, and the Netherlands
Source

Next edition outlook

2027

confirmed

The next CMS Berlin will take place from 21 to 24 September 2027 at the Berlin Exhibition Grounds. Building on the record-breaking success of the 2025 edition, the 13th CMS is expected to continue its growth trajectory in exhibitor numbers, international participation, and visitor attendance. The event will maintain its focus on digitalisation, AI, robotics, and sustainability as the dominant industry themes, with an expanded supporting programme expected to include the Housekeeping & Hospital Cleaning Focus Day and other sector-specific offerings.

Continued growth in international exhibitor and visitor participation Expansion of AI and robotics showcase areas with more live demonstrations Increased focus on sustainability and green cleaning solutions Return and potential expansion of the Housekeeping & Hospital Cleaning Focus Day New thematic zones or pavilions addressing emerging sectors

Impact

A bigger and stronger platform

The 12th CMS Berlin (23–26 September 2025) exceeded all expectations, setting new records across every key metric. More than 22,800 trade visitors from 80 countries attended — up from 21,000 in 2023. The exhibition space expanded to over 34,000 m², with 441 exhibitors from 30 countries presenting their latest products. The internationalisation of the fair increased significantly, with a notable rise in trade visitors from neighbouring European countries including Austria, Poland, Switzerland, Denmark, and the Netherlands. The focus on digitalisation, AI, sustainable cleaning solutions, smart robotics, IoT-supported systems, and digital facility management solutions drew strong engagement. The supporting programme featured a dedicated focus day on housekeeping and hospital cleaning for the first time. Organiser Messe Berlin described the edition as 'exceptional' and 'the most successful of all time'.

Audience quality

High-value decision-makers

The 2025 edition attracted more than 22,800 qualified trade visitors from 80 countries, representing a broad cross-section of the cleaning and hygiene industry. The visitor base included decision-makers, buyers, and professionals from building cleaning, healthcare, hospitality, industry, and public infrastructure sectors. The internationalisation of the fair increased significantly, with a notable rise in visitors from neighbouring European countries such as Austria, Poland, Switzerland, Denmark, and the Netherlands. Feedback from exhibitors and industry associations highlighted the high quality of visitor interactions, with full halls and engaged specialist forums throughout the four days. The Cleanzine reported that 'the internationalisation of the trade fair has increased significantly in terms of exhibitors, and CMS is well on its way in terms of visitors'.

Exhibitor outcomes

Real business growth

Exhibitor feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with many reporting excellent response and high-quality visitor interactions. Dr. Thomas Schnell, Managing Director of DR.SCHNELL, noted: 'We are very satisfied with this year's CMS. we have received an excellent response. Participating in our industry's leading trade fair is an important strategic step for us because it provides the ideal platform for our innovations. At 370 m², our stand was larger than ever before'. The event featured 78 new product announcements, including 10 world premieres, 4 European premieres, and 31 trade fair premieres. Industry associations also praised the event: Federal Guild Master Thomas Dietrich (BIV) stated 'Our CMS continues to celebrate impressive successes. a strong signal for the innovative strength, relevance, and future viability of CMS'. Markus Häfner (IHO) noted that 'CMS has once again gained in terms of innovation and internationality and has inspired the entire cleaning industry'. Frank Ulbricht (VDMA) confirmed that 'for the machine manufacturing industry, CMS was once again a complete success in 2025'.

Intelligence

Market context

Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.

Europe

Why it matters

CMS Berlin is the definitive barometer for the European cleaning, hygiene, and facility management industry. As the continent's leading B2B trade fair for the sector, it serves as the primary launchpad for innovations—from AI-driven cleaning robots to sustainable chemical formulations—and the central networking hub for decision-makers across building cleaning, healthcare, hospitality, industry, and public infrastructure. The 2025 edition set new records with 441 exhibitors and over 22,800 trade visitors, underscoring its role as the must-attend event for anyone serious about the cleaning industry's future. For buyers, CMS Berlin offers a comprehensive, efficiency-maximising overview of the latest technologies and services. For exhibitors, it provides direct access to a highly qualified, decision-making audience and a platform to shape market trends. With the industry facing workforce shortages, sustainability mandates, and rapid digitalisation, CMS Berlin is where the solutions to these challenges are showcased and debated. The European cleaning equipment market is forecast to exceed €40 billion by 2027, with intelligent cleaning systems accounting for over 30% of the total, reinforcing the strategic importance of this event

Industry trends

Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.

Digitalization & AI-Driven Operations

The cleaning and facility management industry is rapidly adopting AI, IoT sensors, and data-driven platforms to optimize scheduling, inspections, and resource allocation. AI is revolutionizing cleaning processes by improving planning, quality control, and resource allocation. Automation is shifting from novelty to operational necessity as labour shortages intensify, with robotic floor scrubbers and automated dispensing systems becoming standard in larger facilities. A 2026 BSC market study found that 38% of contract cleaning companies plan to embrace data-driven cleaning systems, a 13-point increase from 2025

Source

Sustainability & Green Cleaning as a Mandate

Sustainability is no longer optional but a core business requirement driven by EU regulations, green procurement criteria, and customer expectations. The industry is shifting toward bio-based, microbial, and enzyme-based formulations, with eco‑focused products gaining share. Sustainable cleaning certifications have become a hard threshold in public procurement tenders. The penetration of concentrated and refillable formats is expected to rise from under 15% of volume in 2026 to more than 25% by 2035

Source

Smart Robotics & Autonomous Cleaning

Robotic floor scrubbers, autonomous cleaning machines, and AI-powered patrol inspection systems are reshaping facility maintenance. Planned adoption of robotic floor equipment doubled from 16% in 2025 to 32% in 2026. The focus is moving from raw robotic capability to ease of deployment, interoperability, and integration with broader workflow systems. CMS Berlin 2025 showcased smart robotics as a key theme, and this trend is expected to accelerate through 2027

Source

Integrated Hygiene & Health Management

Heightened hygiene standards in healthcare, hospitality, and public spaces are driving demand for targeted hygiene management, digital inspection tools, and integrated hygiene programmes. The professional/commercial cleaning segment is forecast to expand at a 3–5% annual clip, driven by stricter hygiene regulations in hospitality and healthcare. The CMS 2025 focus day on housekeeping and hospital cleaning highlighted the growing importance of sector-specific hygiene solutions.

Source

Workforce Shortages & Efficiency Pressures

The cleaning sector faces significant labour shortages, with over half of providers reporting they need up to 10% more staff and more than one in five estimating a 20% staffing gap. This labour crunch is forcing the industry to adopt automation, digital tools, and flexible service models to maintain service levels and margins. The German cleaning sector now employs around 658,000 people, with turnover surpassing €27 billion in 2024.

Source

Market Growth & Consolidation

The global cleaning services market is projected to grow from USD 79.66 billion in 2026 to approximately USD 140.41 billion by 2035, expanding at a CAGR of 6.50%. The European cleaning equipment market is forecast to exceed €40 billion by 2027, with intelligent cleaning systems accounting for over 30% of the total. Structural shifts toward technology-enabled, environmentally responsible, and highly regulated operations are reshaping the industry

Source

Market news

Latest updates from across the market.

Interclean Publishes Cleaning Sector Trend Report for 2026

Read

Janitorial Cleaning Industry Europe: Trends & Sustainability

Read

2026 BSC Market Study Shows Sustainable Growth

Read

Cleaning Industry Trends, Statistics, and Growth Outlook (2026)

Read

Cleaning Services Market Size to Surge to USD 140.41 Billion by 2035

Read

5 Trends Defining Contract Cleaning in 2026

Read

European Cleaning & Facility Management Trade Show Circuit (2026–2027)

Q2 2026 – Q4 2027

The European cleaning and facility management industry is served by a well-established circuit of biennial and annual trade shows. CMS Berlin (September 2027) is the largest and most international gathering in Europe, competing with Interclean Amsterdam (April 2026) as the other global flagship. Regional shows such as Clean Pro Expo (September 2026, Friedrichshafen) and ISSA Pulire (May 2027, Milan) cater to specific geographic markets. The circuit also includes specialised facility management events like World Workplace Europe (March 2027, Antwerp) and CAFM-Messe (June 2027, Fulda). North American and Asian events (ISSA Show North America, CleanExpo Moscow, Expo Clean Jakarta) provide complementary global coverage. The biennial cycle of CMS and Interclean means that professionals can attend both in alternating years to stay current.

Spring 2026

Interclean Amsterdam 2026

Global flagship in even years; ideal for international sourcing and trend discovery.

Autumn 2026

Clean Pro Expo 2026ISSA Show North America 2026CleanExpo Moscow 2026

Regional and specialised events; good for targeted regional market entry or North American exposure.

Spring 2027

World Workplace Europe 2027ISSA Pulire 2027Clean-Tech Expo 2027

Facility management and Southern European cleaning focus; good lead-up to CMS Berlin 2027.

Autumn 2027

CMS Berlin 2027

The largest European cleaning show in odd years; the flagship event for the industry in 2027.

Event dates and details compiled from official organiser websites, AUMA, and trade press. Interclean Amsterdam 2026 dates confirmed by organiser. Clean Pro Expo 2026 dates confirmed by AUMA and Blachreport. ISSA Pulire 2027 dates confirmed by multiple sources. Clean-Tech Expo 2027 dates from event website. ISSA Show North America 2026 dates from ISSA. CleanExpo Moscow 2026 dates from official site. CAFM-Messe 2027 dates from Facility Manager. World Workplace Europe 2027 dates from IFMA

Plan your trip

Travel & logistics

Local currency · EUR

Arrival airports

Choose from the following airports, with convenient access to the event and venue.

BER

Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER)

The S-Bahn line S9 connects the airport directly to 'S Messe-Süd' station without changing trains in about 70 minutes; a single ticket costs €4.70 (ABC zone). Regional trains (e.g. R8 or R23) combined with S3 are also possible for the same price. Taxi fares range from €45–€80 depending on traffic.

Approximately 25 km

to venue

30–45 minutes by taxi

by car

Hotel tiers

A range of accommodation options near the venue and across key areas.

Budget

Near Messe Berlin / Charlottenburg

USD 65–120 / night

2-star and economy chain hotels within walking distance or one S-Bahn stop from the venue. Examples: Ibis Berlin Messe (from $86/night)-, Hotel Messe am Funkturm (from ~$47-62/night). Basic but clean rooms, often with breakfast available at extra cost. Book early as these fill up quickly during trade fair periods.

Mid-range

Charlottenburg / Wilmersdorf / City West

USD 120–200 / night

3- to 4-star hotels with good transport links to Messe Berlin. Examples: Garner Hotel Berlin Messe by IHG ($96-137/night)-, Mercure Hotel Berlin City (~$81/night)-, Hotel Vita Berlin-Messe (~$123/night). Comfortable rooms, often with on-site dining and business facilities. Some include breakfast.

Premium

City Centre (Mitte) / Alexanderplatz / Ku'damm

USD 200–350 / night

4- to 5-star full-service hotels, many in prime locations with excellent public transport connections to the venue (20-35 minutes by S-Bahn). Examples: Park Inn by Radisson Berlin Alexanderplatz (~$115-159/night)-, Lindner Hotel Am Ku'damm. Higher-end amenities, spacious rooms, and often located near major attractions. City tax of 5% may apply.

Local transport

Get around the city with these convenient transport options.

S-Bahn (suburban train)

Estimated costSingle ticket AB €4, ABC €5; 24h ticket AB €11.20, ABC €12.90

Best forS3, S5, S9 to Messe Süd (South Entrance); S41, S42, S46 to Messe Nord/ZOB (North Entrance)

Fastest and most frequent connection from central Berlin and BER airport (S9 direct to Messe Süd in ~70 min, ticket ABC €5). Trains run every 5-10 min during peak hours.

U-Bahn (subway)

Estimated costSame as S-Bahn: single ticket AB €4, 24h ticket AB €11.20

Best forU2 to Kaiserdamm or Theodor-Heuss-Platz stations

Convenient for hotels along the U2 line. Short walk from stations to North Entrance.

Bus

Estimated costSingle ticket AB €4, 24h ticket AB €11.20

Best forBuses 139, 218, M49, X34, X49 to Messe Nord/ZOB; Bus 349 to Messe Süd-; X9 express bus from Zoo station

Good for hotels not directly on S-Bahn/U-Bahn lines. Ticket machines available on trams; cash not accepted on buses.

Taxi / Ride-hailing (Uber, Free Now, Bolt)

Estimated costFrom central Berlin: ~€20; from BER airport: ~€40-80; 5km city ride ~€11-15 for Uber/Bolt, taxi ~€14-

Best forDoor-to-door from anywhere in Berlin to Messe Berlin

Taxi starting fare €3.90 + €2.00/km. Uber/Bolt typically ~30% cheaper than taxis. Traffic can be heavy during morning rush hour. Taxi ranks at South Entrance, North Entrance, CityCube, hub27, Hall 9.

Parking (on-site)

Estimated cost€15 per day

Best forLimited spaces in lots P17 and P18 during trade fair; additional ICC parking garage available

Strongly recommended to use public transport instead, as parking is limited. Venue is outside Berlin's environmental zone.

Plan your trip

Visa & entry documents

Check the latest visa requirements and entry guidelines before travelling.

Visa required

ATA Carnet: accepted

Type	Who needs it	Fee	Processing
Schengen Business Visa (Type C)	Nationals of countries that do not have a visa-free agreement with the Schengen Area, travelling to Germany for business, trade fair attendance, or professional purposes for stays up to 90 days within any 180-day period.	$104.00	15 working days (may take longer in individual cases). Applications can be submitted up to six months before travel.

Citizens of EU/EEA countries, the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Israel, and many others do not require a visa for short stays (up to 90 days in any 180-day period) for business or tourism. A full list of visa-exempt countries is maintained by the German Federal Foreign Office.

Germany accepts ATA Carnets for the temporary, duty-free and tax-free import of exhibition goods, commercial samples, and professional equipment. Non-EU exhibitors bringing display materials, demo equipment, or machinery to CMS Berlin should use an ATA Carnet to avoid paying EU customs duties and German VAT. Carnets are valid for up to one year. Goods must be re-exported before the carnet expires. Consumable goods and items for sale are not permitted under ATA Carnet.

Official visa page

Weather

Berlin in late September typically has mild autumn weather. Average daily highs range from 18–21°C (64–70°F) and lows from 10–12°C (50–54°F). Occasional rain is possible; average precipitation is around 48 mm. Pack layers, a light jacket for evenings, and an umbrella.

Plan for the climate

Check temperatures and pack accordingly

Venue connectivity

The Berlin Exhibition Grounds (Messe Berlin) are exceptionally well-connected to the city's transport network. The venue is adjacent to the city motorway (Stadtring) linking to Berlin's international airports. Key public transport stations: S-Bahn 'Messe Süd' (S3, S5, S9) and 'Messe Nord/ICC' (S41, S42, S46), plus U-Bahn and bus stops at the entrances. Berlin Hauptbahnhof (central station) is about 11 km away. The venue offers 12,000 parking spaces on and around the grounds.

Ride-hailing

Taxis

Public transit

Car rentals

Cultural notes

Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.

Punctuality is Non-Negotiable

Germans value punctuality highly in business settings. Arrive at meetings, appointments, and scheduled events well ahead of time. Being late is considered disrespectful and unprofessional.

Direct Communication

German business culture is known for its directness and efficiency. This is not rudeness but a focus on clear, concise communication. Avoid excessive small talk or indirectness in professional conversations.

Business Attire

While some Berlin startups may be casual, for a major trade fair like CMS, business formal or business casual is standard. Suits for men and business suits or equivalent for women are recommended to signal professionalism.

Formal Greetings

A firm handshake with direct eye contact is the standard business greeting. Use formal titles (Herr/Frau) and surnames unless invited to use first names.

Cash is Still King

While cards are increasingly accepted, cash remains widely used in Berlin, especially in smaller establishments, cafes, and for tipping. Carry €40-60 in cash for everyday transactions.

Tipping Etiquette

In restaurants, it is customary to tip 5-10% of the bill or round up to the nearest euro. This is a sign of appreciation for good service.

Practical guides

Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials

Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.

Flights

Destination: Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER)

BER is served by numerous airlines with direct connections from major hubs worldwide. Book early for the best fares. The airport is approximately 25 km from Messe Berlin. Public transport (S-Bahn S9) is the most cost-effective option; taxis and ride-hailing are also available.

Book flights

Visa

Most non-EU/EEA nationals require a Schengen short-stay visa (Type C) for business or trade fair attendance. Visa-exempt nationals (e.g., US, UK, Canada, Australia, Japan, South Korea) do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days. All travellers should check their specific requirements with the German Federal Foreign Office or their local German mission.

Processing: Typically 15 working days; apply at least 4–6 weeks before travel.

Applications can be submitted up to six months before the intended travel date. Required documents typically include a valid passport, completed application form, passport photo, travel health insurance, proof of accommodation and flights, proof of financial means, and an invitation letter or trade fair registration confirmation. In-person appointment at the German mission or visa application centre is required for biometric data collection.

Official Partner

Hotels

Find a stay near the venue with options for every budget.

Areas to stay

Charlottenburg / near Messe Berlin (most convenient, walking distance or short S-Bahn ride) · City West / Kurfürstendamm (excellent shopping and dining, 10-15 minutes to venue via S-Bahn) · Mitte / Alexanderplatz (central location, 20-30 minutes to venue, close to major sights)

Budget

$65-120/night

Book

Mid-range

$120-200/night

Book

Premium

$200-350/night

Book

Transport

Get to the venue and around the city with these options.

Airport → venue: Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) to Messe Berlin: S-Bahn line S9 directly to 'S Messe-Süd' station in ~70 minutes (ABC zone ticket, €4.70). Taxi: 30-45 minutes, ~€45. Regional trains also available.

Hotel → venue: Most hotels in Charlottenburg, City West, and Mitte are within 10-30 minutes of Messe Berlin via S-Bahn (S3, S5, S9 to Messe Süd; S41, S42, S46 to Messe Nord/ICC) or U-Bahn. Check BVG journey planner for specific routes.

Ride-hail: Uber, Free Now, and Bolt operate in Berlin. From central Berlin to Messe Berlin: ~€20-35, depending on traffic and time of day. From BER airport: ~€45.

Public transit: Berlin's public transport (BVG) is extensive, reliable, and affordable. Single ticket (AB zone): €3.80; day pass (AB zone): ~€9.50. The Berlin WelcomeCard offers unlimited travel and attraction discounts.

Parking: Limited on-site parking is available in lots P17 and P18 at €15 per day during the trade show. It is strongly recommended to use public transport instead.

Weather

Plan and pack for the event climate.

Month: September

Temperature: 10–21°C (50–70°F)

Seasonality: Mild with occasional rain; average precipitation ~48 mm

Packing: Pack layers, a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings, comfortable walking shoes, and an umbrella. Business attire is recommended for the trade fair.

Itinerary builder

Add priorities and side trips to make the most of your visit.

Add side trips

Default day plan

08:30Arrive at Messe Süd station; walk to South Entrance
09:00Pick up badge (if not already collected) and enter halls
10:00Visit key exhibitors in your focus area; attend live demonstrations
12:30Lunch break at one of the venue's catering areas
14:00Attend a practice-relevant lecture or panel discussion
16:00Network with contacts at the CMS PLUS match-making area or exhibitor stands
17:00End of show day; head to nearby restaurant or back to hotel

Plan your trip

Planning

Best day to visit: Wednesday or Thursday

The first day (Tuesday) is typically the busiest with opening ceremonies and keynotes. Wednesday and Thursday offer a good balance of crowds and access to exhibitors, with all sessions and demonstrations running. Friday has shorter hours (10:00–15:00) and is often quieter, making it ideal for follow-up meetings.

Register your stand space via the exhibitor portal and submit stand registration — Minimum stand size is 12 sqm. Early bird discounts available until September 2026

Finalise stand design and order system stand construction or complete stand construction (optional) — Complete stand construction available at €114–€129/sqm plus VAT. Alternatively, commission your own stand builder

Book additional services via the BECO webshop (e.g., electricity, water, furniture, loading zones) — Loading zone booking is mandatory for vehicle access during setup and dismantling

Register co-exhibitors and specify placement preferences — Co-exhibitors require a separate Media Package (€150 plus VAT)

Complete your company profile on CMS PLUS and the CMS App — The exhibitor entry is identical across channels and maintained in one place. Onboarding Guide available

Book travel and accommodation; arrange staff passes and insurance — Exhibitors are recommended to carry sufficient insurance. See Exhibitor Service Documents

Confirm stand construction, shipping, and logistics; review technical guidelines — Exhibitors must observe the 'Technical Guidelines'

Prepare giveaways, marketing materials, and lead capture devices; train staff on lead scanning app — Lead scanning is available via the exhibitor app using your exhibitor access code

Setup begins: move in and build stand; staff must be on-site during setup hours — Setup and dismantling hours are typically 08:00–18:00. Specific timings for 2027 to be confirmed.

Staff stand during show hours: Tuesday–Thursday 10:00–17:00, Friday 10:00–15:00 — Exhibitor opening hours are 08:00–18:00 (Tue–Thu) and 08:00–16:00 (Fri)

T+1

Dismantle stand and remove materials — Dismantling typically begins after the show closes on the last day. Specific timings for 2027 to be confirmed.

Sample visitor itinerary

Route-optimised day