The consumer market is in an optimistic light in 2005. 106,000 trade visitors from 130 countries came to Frankfurt am Main for the three international consumer-goods fairs - Paperworld, Christmasworld and Beautyworld. Their positive mood is reflected not only on survey statistic numbers but also the remarkable quantity of orders they made during the fairs.

Held from 26 to 30 January, the number of visitors who took part in Paperworld, Christmasworld and Beautyworld were 66,000, 30,000 and 10,000 respectively. Paperworld is the world's meeting point for office supplies; while Christmasworld is the most important international trade fair for all events of the year and Beautyworld is the leading ordering and new product venue for the beauty sector.

The mood in all three markets is improving, as 94% of visitors were satisfied with their visit to Paperworld, 95% at Christmasworld and 86% at Beautyworld. Also, about 84% of visitors interviewed view the current business situation as good to satisfactory, an increase of 4% as compared to the figure last year.

Such significant positive mood is well-translated into actual orders for the exhibiting companies. Customers at the fairs were willing to place orders and particular interests were shown towards new designs and products. As three of the most vital platforms for making contacts and showcasing innovative ideas, both exhibitors and buyers were pleased with their business during the fairs.

Paperworld, Christmasworld and Beautyworld have established leading positions as trend indexes for the industries. For 2005, colour is creeping back into office while printer supplies continue to be distinguished by innovations, e.g. photographic paper available in conventional picture sizes. Furniture is gaining individuality through the use of wallpaper techniques and acrylic paintwork. Christmas 2005 will be colourful: red, green, gold and champagne for traditionalists and red, orange and pink combined with silver and pink for the younger people. Good-mood colours will dominate Easter and spring while summer is a celebration of wildlife in zebra and jungle look. As for the world of beauty, the classic red-lip look is back. The trend for eye will be dramatic with a blend of black and silver. Flip-flops appear in all kinds of vibrant colours, such as turquoise, blue, pink and rose with stripes, beach motifs and roses.

The next Paperworld, Christmasworld and Beautyworld trade fairs will be held in Frankfurt am Main from 25 to 29 January 2006.