"We are eagerly looking forward to next year and are proud to be able to bring RETRO CLASSICS® to Essen for the first time (April 8–12, 2026). The positive feedback from our discussions with the industry shows us that we are on the right track to launching a forward-looking event format here. We would like to thank everyone who is currently providing active support and the many exhibitors who have already decided to participate," said Henning and Thilo Könicke, managing directors of RETRO Messen GmbH.
Renowned exhibitors include Eberlein Automobile GmbH from Kassel, synonymous with Ferrari passion for over 35 years and an official “Ferrari Classiche” partner, as well as Axel Schütte Fine Cars from Oerlinghausen, known for exclusive classics and racing cars with unique histories. From the Netherlands, the company GALLERY AALDERING from Brummen will be presenting its exquisite portfolio of classic cars – a name that has stood for the highest quality and passion in the trade of old-timers and young-timers since 1975.
"Essen is a very important location for trade fairs, especially in the field of classic vehicles. Its central location in the heart of Europe and the region's rich automotive history make Essen an ideal meeting place for enthusiasts and experts. I expect the new RETRO CLASSICS ESSEN® to provide a platform that not only celebrates classic cars, but also promotes exchange between experts, collectors, and new enthusiasts. It is an important place to cultivate the connections that are so important in our industry," says Nick Aaldering, Managing Director of GALLERY AALDERING.
In the central Club Hall 5, Citroën will be showcasing its well-known “Citroën Street” with a focus on the compact LNA, AX, and Saxo series – a journey through time covering the 70s, 80s, and 90s. Of course, Volkswagen is also represented with impressive anniversaries: 50 years of the Golf GTI and 50 years of the Scirocco GTI / GLI are the focus of an exciting presentation.
Under the motto “British Lane,” the Galeria is transformed into a paradise for enthusiasts of British brands, who present their automotive icons and quirky models “from the island” there. Opel Classic and Alt-Opel-IG are also celebrating twice: 40 years of the Omega A and 60 years of the Rekord C will be celebrated in style in Hall 5. After a long break, the TVR Car Club Deutschland is returning to Essen and demonstrating its engineering prowess on around 300 square meters in Hall 7.
