The Frankfurt show also marks the IMEX Group's 20th anniversary this year. Photo Credit: IMEX Group
The IMEX Group has announced that its 2022 IMEX in Frankfurt meetings
industry trade show will be postponed, from the original dates of 26-28
April to 31 May-2 June.
The change, according to the organisation, was made due to the
increase in Omicron cases across Europe and around the world, as well as
uncertainty over destinations' health and safety regulations. IMEX in
Frankfurt is the latest of many events that are being shortened,
postponed or cancelled due to the current Covid-19 surge.
According to IMEX CEO Carina Bauer, "Everyone in our industry can see
the current situation in Europe and knows that, with trade shows
depending on such long lead times, it doesn’t support a show in April.
We strongly believe that a late May edition of IMEX in Frankfurt will
allow everyone to move ahead and plan with certainty and confidence.
"Having recently come off a highly successful IMEX America," Bauer
added, "we’re completely focused on building a strong return for IMEX in
Frankfurt and we’re also keenly aware of how much our industry needs
IMEX to bring everyone together and prove that business regeneration and
good lead flow is not only viable but closer than some may think".
Reaction
from the industry has been positive. Huw Tuckett, CITP, executive
director of global DMC group Euromic, noted that "it could be a
challenge for some exhibitors and buyers to attend, as in normal times
May and June herald the start of a busy summer calendar; but at the same
time we believe those who want to be there will make the necessary
arrangements".
"We believe in the value of face to face meetings at trade shows and
IMEX is an important opportunity for us to reconnect with our clients
again like we did at both IMEX America and IBTM World last year," added
Tuckett. "We commend the IMEX team for doing everything they can to
ensure the show goes ahead and is a success."
Marty MacKay, DMCP, president, Alliance Events and Operations for
Hosts Global, pointed out that the new dates overlap with the Incentive
Research Foundation's Invitational event. "But otherwise, we are just
adjusting and checking availability for some pre-fams we were planning. I
think everyone is just happy to see that it will happen!"
Last November, IMEX announced new dates for this year's IMEX America. The Las Vegas event will take place 11-13 October, 2022.
The Frankfurt show, which will mark its 20th anniversary this year,
will include a full day of education for corporate, association and
agency buyers on Monday, 30 May. Registration for IMEX in Frankfurt will
open on 17 January.
Source: Northstar Meetings Group