When Michael Knight and Magnum meet retail professionals at the RheinEnergieStadion
On January 29, 2026, the time had finally come: the first "Foolish trade meeting" opened its doors in Cologne's RheinEnergieStadion. And right in the middle of it instead of just being there: our Managing Directors Stephan Kaup and Thomas Dresselhaus. The two of them did not miss the opportunity to travel to the carnival stronghold in proper style - Stephan as Michael Knight from Knight Rider and Thomas as Magnum.
A new retail experience: Business with wit, charm and humor
The innovative format, initiated by Stefan Binkowski (SAP VP Retail & Wholesale Advisory), set a completely new standard in the retail landscape. The program, which combined business and carnival in a unique way, started punctually at 3:11 p.m. - because we are in Cologne, of course.
The idea behind it? To experience retail with wit, charm and humor. Because as Stefan Binkowski himself put it: "There's a lot going on in retail, always keeping an eye on the business, but also having a laugh with a wink." And it was precisely this mixture that made the event so special.
Networking of a special kind
Between carnival speeches and dancing, in the style of a real carnival session, retail experts from the entire DSAG community came together. The location - the RheinEnergieStadion with a view of the Bundesliga pitch - provided the perfect setting for a cozy get-together and intensive discussions.
What began in the minds of three crazy people, as Stefan Binkowski described it, took shape in just 14 days: The first professional event for the retail sector in the style of a carnival session was born.
Highlights of the day
The presentations were very professional and entertaining at the same time. The absolute highlight was Dennis Reßmann from Ernsting's familywho was not only convincing in terms of content with his "11 Short G-Shifts of Kaizen, Transformation and HI", but also revealed unexpected vocal qualities. Who would have thought that business transformation could be presented so melodically?
Jens Hungershausen, Chairman of the DSAG Executive Board, also made an impressive contribution and showed once again why the DSAG community is so strong. The range of topics - from the carnival police (BTP) with "11 foolish paragraphs about SAP and BTP" to "DSAG - Die Spaßige Austausch Gruppe" - proved that expertise and humor are not mutually exclusive.
More than just carnival
After the official program, the party continued seamlessly: with good food, drinks, moody music and beautiful singing. Despite - or perhaps because of - the party atmosphere, there was no shortage of factual and technical discussions. On the contrary: the relaxed atmosphere encouraged open discussions about challenges and solutions in the SAP retail environment.
The crowning glory of the evening was the performance by the band Bohei, who created an exuberant atmosphere and rounded off the event perfectly. The event impressively demonstrated that business and entertainment do not have to be mutually exclusive - on the contrary. The relaxed atmosphere in particular led to valuable discussions and new contacts.
Huge thanks are due to the organizers Jürgen Werner (CAS AG) and Stefan Binkowski, who have created something unique with this format. The community response was overwhelming: high-caliber supporters from METRO.digital to hokona GmbH and even the German-speaking SAP User Group (DSAG) and FIS Informationssysteme und Consulting GmbH contributed to the success.
Our conclusion
Stephan and Thomas came back enthusiastic - and not just because of the successful costumes. "A cool event with great presentations," summarizes Stephan Kaup. "It was great fun, and despite the party atmosphere, there was no shortage of factual and technical discussions."
The Närrische Handelstreff proves it: Professional exchange also works outside of traditional conference formats. Sometimes it just takes a carnival meeting to bring the community together in a completely new way.
We are curious to see whether the format will be repeated next year - and whether Michael Knight and Magnum will then perhaps have new companions. One thing's for sure: the chances are good with us!
Helau and Alaaf!
Your team from the world of SAP solutions! P.S.: If you were there too - we hope you recognized our CEOs in disguise!
