Going Native: Frankfurt

When Ralf Schipper, executive producer/partner, Tempomedia Frankfurt/Main, thinks Frankfurt, he thinks money, safety, a cool international vibe, great bars and restaurants… and a doughnut with colourful sprinkles

What is the best thing about working in advertising in Germany?

We are very lucky to have the headquarters of many international companies in Germany and, because of that, German production companies work on projects that are seen all over the world.

And the worst thing about working in advertising in Germany?

It is very fragmented. Ad agencies are based in Hamburg, Berlin, Düsseldorf, Munich and Frankfurt, so staying in contact with them all is not always easy and involves a lot of travel.

What advice would you give to a visitor to Frankfurt?

Take a bicycle and explore the city. Frankfurt is small and it only takes you about 30 minutes to go from one end of the city to another. Check out the Main river – there are lots of nice little bars and cafes along the riverbank.

If you are booking a hotel in Frankfurt, where would you choose to stay?

For me there are two options: 25Hours Hotel by Levi’s, which is in the heart of the red light district (which is a cool area to go out in at night). It’s not too expensive and they also serve a delicious breakfast. Or Roomers – it’s a bit pricier but has a great late-night bar. It’s good for people-spotting – the place is always packed with cool party people. The restaurant is very nice as well.

What’s the best German ad you have seen in the last year?

Edeka, Coming Home.

Who would you love to work with in the industry?

Morgan Freeman as an actor and David Fincher as a director.

If Frankfurt were a product, what would it be?

A colourful doughnut with all kinds of sprinkles.

Where’s the best place to eat in Frankfurt?

It depends on my mood, but at the moment I like Eat Doori on Kaiserstrasse for lunch, and Moriki or VaiVai for dinner.

And the best place to have a drink?

I love Bar ohne Namen, which translates as The Bar With No Name… it’s a nice place to hang out in and have a couple of drinks.

What do you miss when you are out of the city?

The ease of life: you can go out by yourself, feel safe and always meet interesting international people.

What’s Frankfurt’s favourite pastime?

Sad to say, it’s making money…

One table, four places. You and who?

My three best friends. We’d drink a few beers and not talk about business at all!

What’s your one-line life philosophy?

‘Keep the sunshine on my shoulders’ – always smile, be happy and thankful.

If you could have one question answered, what would it be?

What is going to happen after the election in the United States?