COLOGNE, Germany — Young consumers and first time homebuyers seeking flexible, stylish furniture will be among the focal points of IMM Cologne 2011, which takes place from Jan. 18-23.
Show organizers have devoted Halls 7 and 8 of the 11 hall complex to products, including ready-to-assemble furniture, that address younger consumers. The "Smart Halls" will offer a mix of bedroom, living room and other furniture and accessories.

Organizers said they chose to devote the space to the category due to the growing demand among younger consumers for clean-lined, flat-pack products made with mixed-media combinations of wood, glass and metal.

Market analysts estimate that in 2010, German consumers will have purchased some $8.9 billion euros ($11.9 billion) worth of flat-pack furniture. Sales are expected to increase in 2011.

Flat pack furniture also accounts for more than 40% of upholstery sales in Germany, according to Sonja Koschel, owner of www.marketcharts.de, a Web based analytical firm.

To see a diagram of the Cologne fair layout, click here.