Since 2009, POOLgroup has supported the Mining, Chemical, and Energy Labor Union (IGBCE) with its scheduled union conventions. Every four years, around 400 delegates convene in Hanover to set the union’s strategic direction and leadership structure for the years ahead and to vote on more than 500 proposals. In 2025, the POOLcrew acted as the general contractor to implement this format for the fifth time.

With around 600,000 members, the IGBCE is one of the largest labor unions in Germany. And expectations are correspondingly high: The conventions should not only set the union’s political course but also send a message of fellowship and solidarity. With the overarching theme “Do the right thing! Open. Strong. United.”, the event centers on clarity of purpose, shaping the future, and democracy in action.

A convention of this magnitude involves complex logistics and demands the highest security standards. Key challenges include the concurrent use of multiple halls in the Hanover Congress Center, a tightly packed schedule, and VIP visits from German chancellors and government ministers. In addition, there is an expectation that sustainability is a key factor when deciding on equipment and processes – from choosing recyclable materials to deploying technology that conserves resources.

The POOLcrew brings their extensive experience of political and union events.

• Technical planning & event design
• Audio, light, and media technology, rigging & IT
• Interpreter & conference technology, live streaming
• Construction of stages and exhibition space, content creation & management
• Safety & hygiene procedures, guest management, logistics & directing the event

Working closely with the client and performing trial builds mean quality levels are assured – planning and preparation usually takes around 18 months.

The delegates enjoy an event that combines political engagement and emotional resonance. In addition to the plenary sessions, there are cultural presentations, musical highlights, and interactive elements to experience. Each convention creates moments where fellowship and solidarity come to life.

The partnership with IGBCE extends far beyond the conventions. A perfect example of this was the 125th Anniversary in 2015. At the Zollverein colliery in Essen, a former coal mine complex and now UNESCO World Heritage Site, 30,000 trade unionists celebrated the occasion, with cultural presentations across several stages, children’s activities, and comprehensive infrastructure design. The POOLcrew were responsible for event design, security and traffic plans, energy supply, content management as well as lighting and sound systems for the entire site.

Mutual trust and our long-standing partnership are key elements to the collaboration with IGBCE. From anniversary celebrations with 30,000 guests to scheduled conventions with 400 delegates, over the last 15 years, POOLgroup has ensured that content, emotional resonance, and technology merges into a coherent overall message.