Ramesh Somani, Founder and Chief Editor at Exhibit Group and BBC TopGear India, stands at the intersection of technology, media, and content. His recent visit to the IFA consumer tech trade show in Berlin, after a four-year hiatus, highlights his enduring passion for innovation and his relentless drive to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving industry. Ramesh Somani’s reflections on the event, shared in his LinkedIn post, reveal not only his keen interest in consumer technology but also his forward-thinking approach to entrepreneurship and media.
Ramesh Somani begins his post by expressing the rejuvenating effect of attending IFA, one of the world’s leading consumer tech trade shows. After a gap of four years, he found himself once again immersed in an environment that sparks ideas and prepares attendees for the future. “There is something very eye-opening when you walk a trade show of your interest,” he writes, emphasizing how these experiences recharge him with new concepts and insights. For Ramesh Somani, IFA holds a special place, second only to CES, another major tech event. But what makes IFA stand out for him is its location: Berlin.
Berlin, a city known for its rich history and vibrant tech scene, has long been a favorite for Ramesh Somani. His connection to the city, combined with his passion for consumer technology, makes the IFA trade show an event that inspires and energizes him. The 100th anniversary of IFA added an extra layer of significance to his visit this year, marking a century of innovation in the world of consumer electronics.
One of the highlights of Ramesh Somani’s experience at IFA was exploring IFANext, an area dedicated to startups. This space, filled with globally curated startups, sparked new ideas for him. He hints at potentially executing one of these startup concepts himself, a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit. Ramesh Somani has a history of trading and importing consumer electronics, and he once launched European brands like Gear4 in India. His deep involvement in the retail and go-to-market strategy of consumer electronics brands was an early chapter in his career, but it eventually gave way to his true passion: media and content.
This transition from consumer electronics to media is a pivotal moment in Ramesh Somani’s journey. While the tech space initially excited him, his passion for media and content creation ultimately took over, leading him to found Exhibit Group and become the driving force behind BBC TopGear India. Today, Ramesh Somani is not only a leader in the media industry but also a key influencer in the tech world, blending his expertise in both fields to create impactful content that resonates with audiences.
During his time at IFA, Ramesh Somani also had the opportunity to engage with industry leaders, including Dirk Koslowski, the IFA director. He praised Koslowski for orchestrating a well-organized show that encompassed every aspect of modern innovation, from keynotes to concerts, influencers, and groundbreaking technologies. Ramesh Somani’s ability to connect with key figures in the industry reflects his influential role and the respect he commands within the tech and media communities.
Innovation, a central theme of Ramesh Somani’s post, is something he is always on the lookout for. He highlights the tagline of the event—“Caution: Innovation Ahead”—which encapsulates the spirit of IFA and the ever-changing landscape of consumer technology. For Ramesh Somani, staying on top of these innovations is not just about keeping up with trends; it’s about positioning himself and his businesses for the future.
As someone who has spent years at the forefront of the tech and media industries, Ramesh Somani understands the importance of staying future-proof. He knows that innovation is not a one-time event but a continuous process of exploration, learning, and adaptation. This mindset has allowed him to thrive in an industry that is constantly evolving, and his visit to IFA is a reflection of his commitment to staying ahead of the curve.
In addition to the professional insights Ramesh Somani gained at IFA, he also shared a personal anecdote about the physical demands of attending such events. Walking 25,000 steps a day, as he humorously points out, is “normal” at trade shows like IFA. This lighthearted comment adds a human touch to his post, reminding us that even industry leaders like Ramesh Somani face the same challenges as everyone else when navigating large-scale events.
Ramesh Somani’s journey is one of passion, innovation, and adaptability. From his early days in consumer electronics to his current role as a media mogul, he has consistently pushed the boundaries of what is possible. His ability to pivot from one industry to another, while maintaining a focus on innovation and quality, is a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit and visionary mindset.
Looking ahead, it’s clear that Ramesh Somani will continue to be a driving force in both the tech and media worlds. His experience at IFA, coupled with his deep understanding of consumer trends and innovation, positions him to take on new challenges and opportunities in the future. Whether he decides to execute one of the startup ideas he encountered at IFANext or continues to expand his media empire, one thing is certain: Ramesh Somani is always thinking ahead, ready to embrace the next wave of innovation.
Ramesh Somani’s reflections on his time at IFA offer valuable insights into the mind of a true innovator. His ability to merge his passion for technology with his expertise in media has allowed him to create a unique niche in both industries. As he continues to explore new ideas and push the boundaries of what is possible, Ramesh Somani remains an inspiring figure for entrepreneurs and industry leaders alike. His journey serves as a reminder that staying curious, embracing change, and following your passions are the keys to long-term success in any field.
