It all began in a two-car garage

In economically challenging times, the company SMC Schäfer Messe-Consulting GmbH is investing in the construction of a new warehouse and office space expansion at Gold-Zack-Strasse 5.

Deputy director Torsten Schäfer explains the necessary step: "We are busting at the seams. Processes can no longer be configured in a rational manner."

The company currently employs 26 people and is growing. SMC serves about 360 tradeshows, exhibitions, and conventions each year. The company philosophy: one-stop service. SMC provides event research and budget planning and then builds the company-specific tradeshow booth, including posters and graphics. SMC even ensures that cold beverages are in the refrigerator at the event opening.

The history of the company is extraordinary. Wolfram Schäfer (82) was born in Eschwege (northern Hesse) and has lived in Mettmann since 1965. This business manager has spent many successful years in the pharmaceutical industry: "I'm a student with life experience."

The pharmaceutical company built and led by him was relocated to Munich.

He almost became a pensioner. But retirement has not been a topic of discussion for this octogenarian. The idea for an external tradeshow department was born in the 1980s. In 1988, son Torsten joined the effort and began building company-specific modular exhibit systems.

Wolfram and Torsten Schäfer co-founded SMC Schäfer Messe-Consulting GmbH on January 1, 1997. Then a decision was reached in 1999: "Let's build now." The company founders acquired a property on the former Gold-Zack grounds and constructed office and warehouse areas. Now the facilities have become too small and must be expanded.

"Business that make anti-cyclical investments can save a tremendous amount of money," says Torsten Schäfer. And his father adds… "Businesses that want to grow without risk should not even be started."

The new hall features a high rack warehouse. Trucks can load and unload construction materials via loading ramp.

Construction total: 

Althoff Industrie-

und Verwaltungsbau GmbH

Enster Str. 15

59872 Meschede

Germany