What restrictions will we see on the trade show floor? How many people will be allowed in a booth at one time? Do we need to hire special cleaning services? Will this be at a premium?
When it comes to trade shows and events in Canada and the U.S. there appears to be more questions than answers at the moment. With Canadian provinces still in different stages of re-opening, we are looking at other countries for some insight. What will the trade show experience look like as we continue to battle this pandemic?
LAS VEGAS
Las Vegas is one of the most popular trade show destinations in North America. However, as of July 27 gatherings are still restricted to no more than 50 people (https://www.vegasmeansbusiness.com/coronavirus-update/). Seeing this update and understanding that the gradual re-opening will take time, it did not come as a surprise that CES (Consumer Electronics Show) in January, one of the most influential tech events globally, was cancelled. Disappointing? Yes - The right thing to do? Probably.
GERMANY
Eager to find out more on the trade show situation elsewhere, I looked to Europe. Most European countries are further ahead of North America in their re-opening phases and I hoped to learn what they are doing as they kick-off their trade shows. In Cologne, Germany for example, the convention centre had postponed all events until at least the end of June. As of July 6, they had launched their new ‘B-Safe4Business’ initiatives. This includes new booth rules and design regulations specific to Covid-19 safety measures. For example, social distancing must be maintained, masks must be worn, and visitor lists kept for at least four weeks after the event to facilitate contact tracing. Below are some of the #B-SAFE exhibit construction guidelines and more can be found here.
While the re-opening in Germany is promising, the short of it is that we do not know when our regularly scheduled trade show programming will resume. A lot depends on the number of cases locally, nationally, and globally. It may hinge on the successful deployment of a vaccine. It will definitely depend on people’s comfort level with travel and conducting business on a trade show floor where there may be a higher potential of contracting COVID-19.
WHAT ABOUT IN CANADA?
I believe that we will see some Canadian shows proceed in the coming months, but with modified schedules, restricted attendance, and booth guidelines similar to those at the Cologne convention centre. Local expos in the G.T.A. have gone ahead with line-ups outside the building, staggered booth visits, and a maximum of 50 attendees inside the venue at any one time.
WHAT IS EXHIBIT SOLUTIONS DOING?
While this looks very different from what we have been used to, it is the reality of our current situation to keep everyone safe. For over 30 years we have been connecting our clients with their customers at live events and trade shows. This year, the venues and platforms will change. Exhibit Solutions delivering innovative experiences, attention to detail, and quality service will not. In addition to our regular offering, our team can now support our client’s digital events with virtual showrooms, virtual booths, or any virtual experience that keeps them connected with their customers.
*In my next post, I will be sharing some more information and videos of Exhibit Solutions’ new VIRTUAL EXPERIENCE service.*