CHECKING IN WITH FLORIAN JÖCKEL
CEO, Massif Central, and President, Guilty76 Racing
Tell us about Massif Central.
We developed a 26,264-square-foot space that was once Europe’s oldest private bank and transformed it into a creative hub. It’s a space where architecture meets design, politics meet subculture, and street art meets real estate. We show the emotions of sport. Massif Central is the home address of 54 local and international creative companies. It also produces its own fashion trade show and hosts its own conventions, including a gaming convention. Additionally, we produce large-scale street art projects including painting the final meters of the Tour de France and Giro d’Italia international cycling races.
Many people assume Frankfurt is all business and finance. What can you share about the city’s creative, artistic side?
Frankfurt is a wonderful place and has the only skyline in Europe. Of course, business is a focus, but that’s one of the main advantages — along with a highly cultural and educated population. There are 39 museums here. A lot of galleries. Urban projects like Massif Central offer an opportunity for cultural exchanges and exhibitions. The music scene is small but international and well-known. Plus, there are big sporting events and film festivals. My favorite is the Lichter Filmfest, a national institution. And with one of Europe’s largest airports — centrally located and very easy to reach — Frankfurt is the perfect gateway to the rest of the world. Once you find the key to this city, it’s an outstanding place.