Photo: International Film Festival Rotterdam / Melanie Samat.
The International Film Festival Rotterdam (IFFR) is one of the world’s largest and most respected film festivals, drawing thousands of visitors to the city each year. With an impressive line-up of films, documentaries, and events, IFFR is not only a major highlight for film lovers—it’s an essential part of Rotterdam’s cultural identity. Say IFFR, and you say Rotterdam. And vice versa.
Dex has been IFFR’s trusted communication partner for over 20 years. But to us, IFFR is more than just a client—it’s a festival we truly love. Each year, we feel the energy, creativity, and cultural impact it brings to the city. That makes our long-standing contribution all the more special.
From festival posters to lanyards
Our collaboration with IFFR begins as early as October, when we jointly plan the communication materials needed for the upcoming edition. It’s the wide variety of materials that makes this partnership so rewarding. From the recognisable festival posters in A2, A1 and A0 formats—some sold to visitors, others distributed throughout Rotterdam and beyond—to the bilingual programme guide in Dutch and English, offering in-depth information about the festival and its films. This guide is shared nationwide and sent to Tiger Members, suppliers, and other stakeholders.
One of the most exciting milestones is always the production of the iconic festival catalogue: a 416-page reference book filled with detailed film information. It goes to print just one week before the event and is sold during the festival. We also produce contour-cut tiger figures on forex board, placed in key locations such as Dudok and cinemas across the city, as well as crew T-shirts and catering staff shirts, printed with sponsor logos from brands like Ketelbinkie, Cley Distillery, Loopuyt, and Kaapse Brouwers. In addition, we produce cotton tote bags, bunting, and lanyards—all in IFFR’s distinctive visual style.
Precision and speed
Working with IFFR demands precision and speed—especially when it comes to large print runs for the programme guide and the last-minute production of the catalogue. Tight deadlines, high standards, and a dynamic production schedule make this a challenge we gladly take on year after year.
Thinking along and taking the load off
Our role goes beyond print production. We act as a proactive partner, offering honest, strategic advice on the best approach for every assignment. Each project is managed by a dedicated Dex project manager who ensures a smooth process and timely delivery. In the hectic run-up to and during the festival, our team is always on standby—including for urgent orders and last-minute changes. We take as much work off IFFR’s hands as possible, allowing their team to fully focus on delivering another outstanding festival.
A collaboration to be proud of
Thanks to our decades of experience and close partnership with IFFR, all production runs smoothly and without surprises. Everything is delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards. We’re proud of this long-standing collaboration and look forward to continuing it for years—if not decades—to come.
We are Dex. Creators of communication.