Križevci craft fair highlights importance of physical trade for small businesses

The 28th Craft and Economic Fair of Koprivnica-Križevac County in Križevci highlights the enduring relevance of physical trade fairs despite the rise of e-commerce. Kristina Cvek, secretary of the county Chamber of Crafts and fair director, noted that small artisans often lack the marketing departments and budgets available to large corporations, making these fairs a vital platform to showcase products to a wide audience.

Beyond direct sales, the fair serves as a critical venue for business networking. It allows artisans to meet colleagues, exchange experiences, and find potential business partners. This year's event features 65 exhibitors from six counties, along with representatives from various institutions and numerous program participants, giving it a regional character.

Dalibor Kratohvil, President of the Croatian Chamber of Crafts, emphasized that digitalization has not made fairs obsolete. He pointed out that while the internet simplifies purchasing, it cannot replicate the sensory experience of touching, smelling, or tasting a product, nor the value of direct conversation with a producer.