The Berlinale's European Film Market (EFM) has found an alternative venue for its EFM Business Offices which are currently on Potsdamer Platz.

In 2009 it will expand its presence at the Marriott Hotel where three EFM screening rooms have already been located since 2007. In addition to the central market venue at the Martin-Gropius-Bau, EFM will now have activities spread over two floors at the Marriott Hotel.

On the first floor, accredited delegates will find the newly established Marriott Stands which will accommodate between 25-30 companies, as well as the current screening rooms. In addition, 26 EFM Marriot Offices will be based on the second floor with such services as a cafe, lounge and internet stations.

Until now, the Potsdamer Platz venue has provided space for around 40 stands for companies. However this location has had a chequered career at the Berlinale. Many EFM participants were not aware of its existence, despite the market's efforts to the contrary. Sales companies should not feel out on a limb at the new Marriott office venue.

EFM management were forced to look for an alternative venue when the property's owners indicated that the office space would not be available to EFM for 2009.

Two other innovations by EFM in the run-up to next year's Berlinale (February 7-17, 2009) are an exclusive industry area for delegates and the inauguration of a dedicated website for the EFM, www.efm-berlinale.de .

The dedicated website will offer general news and practical information about the EFM and the Berlinale Co-Production Market. It will include lists of EFM participants and all the films screened at the market.

The industry area will provide Market Badge and EFM Screening Pass holders with detailed company information on buyers and exhibitors, the films they represent and an up-to-date screening schedule.

Topics