Drilling, sawing, assembling – on April 30, around 150 employees of Messe Berlin swapped keyboards and phones for tools. During Social Day 2025, participants created a new barbecue and recreation area for refugees at the arrival center in Tegel. It marked the third time Messe Berlin hosted a Social Day under the motto “High5 for Berlin”, demonstrating its commitment to a meaningful social project.

Together with teams from NA+1, Werbestudio Schmidt, Haiden Messeconsult (HMC), master electrician Mario Proplesch, and other partners, the group built an outdoor barbecue area covering approx. 210 square meters – about the size of a tennis court. It features ten individual grill stations and seating areas. Construction took place simultaneously at two locations: on the exhibition grounds and directly on-site in Tegel.

“For us, the question is never if we get involved – it’s how,” says Mario Tobias, CEO of Messe Berlin. “Social Day is more than just a team event – it reflects our values. Berlin needs not only good ideas but also real hands-on commitment.” Managing Director Dirk Hoffmann adds: “We’re proud that so many of our colleagues joined again this year – a clear sign of the impact we can achieve together.”

Improvisation Required: Reaching the Goal with Precision and Creativity

One particular challenge of the project: there were no formal construction plans. Instead, prototypes were used as models. This year, a new area of focus was added: in addition to traditional woodworking, electrical installations were included. A specially trained team handled the wiring and technical installation of the electric grills under professional supervision.

Since 2023, Messe Berlin employees have been involved in Social Day activities supporting charitable projects across the city – with dedication, teamwork, and tangible impact. Previous initiatives include the construction of tiny houses for people experiencing homelessness and the creation of a community garden for the Tegel arrival center. The garden, completed in 2024, is now actively in use.

About Messe Berlin

Berlin has been a trade fair venue for over 200 years, and for many decades one of the most important worldwide. As the trade fair company owned by the capital, every year Messe Berlin conceives, markets and organises hundreds of live events. It aims to be an outstanding host for visitors to every event, to give individuals an optimum boost for their business and ensure fair conditions for everyone. This approach is reflected in the company’s slogan ‘Messe Berlin – Hosting the World’.