The audience applauds enthusiastically to show their full appreciation. Beaming faces are everywhere, not just those of the winners. Once again, the gala has been a successful evening with the who’s who of the hotel industry.

The “Hotelier des Jahres” (Hotelier of the Year) award is one of the German hotel industry’s most important recognitions. Since 1990, the magazine ahgz and the publisher dfv Mediengruppe have honoured those with foresight, a willingness to take risks, a dedication to sustainability, and an innovative spirit. For the last 15 years, JOI-Design has created the glamorous summit’s visual aesthetics, from the stage to the photo backdrop to the bars and food stations.

In keeping with the focus on hotel gastronomy, this year a lovingly decorated live cooking stand on the stage made guests’ mouths water. In front of a professionally designed backdrop, Karl J. Pojer, ceo of Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, was celebrated for his life’s work. The industry’s 2020 “Oscar” went to siblings Ann-Kathrin, Thomas and Michael Mack. They are the eighth generation to love and develop the Europapark Rust leisure park and clearly feel comfortable in a varied, nature-loving environment. The event’s cosy atmosphere created a synergy between comfortable hotel lounges, inviting foyers and modern, live-cooking concepts. We were completely in our element when creating the design.