Preview PlusPoint Riverevent 2025

Scholarship for architects comes to you

Why spend hours in the car for a trade show visit when the trade show can just come to you? That's the basic idea behind the PlusPoint RiverEvent: a unique, sailing networking event for architects, interior architects and construction decision-makers, docking in Zwolle, Rotterdam and Den Bosch on September 16, 18 and 19. Welcome aboard the stylish ship Blue Rhapsody, with inspiring stands, surprising encounters and culinary flair.

Initiator Raymond Scheepers knows the ropes. As a founder, he has been bringing building producers to the attention of architects in six countries for 40 years. "What we often hear is that lack of time and distance stops people from visiting trade shows. That's why we cruise to them."

The ship Blue Rhapsody acts as a floating event platform, bridging distances between cities at night. This makes the event easily accessible to professionals from all over the region. "This allows us to work much more locally, with less travel time and thus more room for real meetings. You don't lose half a day in traffic jams, you just get on board in your own region," says Scheepers. For architects with sea legs: the ship doesn't sail.

Quality over quantity

Unlike large trade shows with hundreds of booths, PlusPoint deliberately opts for small scale: a maximum of 76 exhibitors, all with the same compact booth. "The limited surface simply doesn't allow for more. But as Johan Cruijff said, 'Every disadvantage has its advantage.' There is peace and equality on the ship. And it gives visitors the chance to really discover each booth, ask questions and have personal conversations."

Networking also happens more spontaneously here. The intimate setting, shared rhythm and experience create an atmosphere in which connections arise naturally. "We often hear that exhibitors have more quality conversations here in half a day than at a classic trade show week," Scheepers said.

Experience down to the details

In addition to the content, the event also offers an overall experience. What often passes the tongues afterwards is how great the catering was. No wacky sandwiches, but sophisticated appetizers, hot and cold, all day long. "We consciously invest in hospitality. Think attractive interior, attentive service and catering that people spontaneously start talking about," Scheepers says proudly.

When it comes to sustainability, the event is also moving forward. Literally: Blue Rhapsody sails on HVO100, a vegetable fuel that emits 90 percent less CO₂ than diesel. A conscious choice, in keeping with the construction industry's vision of circular and climate-conscious working.

MaterialDistrict as a partner

New this year is the collaboration with MaterialDistrict, the leading platform for innovative and sustainable materials in design and architecture. Through this collaboration, the event will also be actively promoted to interior designers, product developers and other creative
professionals.

PlusPoint RiverEvent will take place this year on September 16 at Scaniahaven in Zwolle, September 18 at Piet Smitkade in Rotterdam and September 19 at Empelsedijk in Den Bosch.

The doors are open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. each time. The ship will remain docked during these hours.

More info: pluspoint-riverevent.com