Interzoo 2018 (pictured above) attracted more than 39,000 visitors and showcased 1,800 trade exhibitors
In view of the spread of the coronavirus in Germany and thoughout Europe, Interzoo organiser WZF says it has been forced to postpone the trade exhibition to a later date, yet to be determined.
The huge international pet trade show, which attracts many exhibitors and visitors from the UK, was scheduled to take place from May 19-22 in Nuremberg.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) declared the spread of the coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) a pandemic on March 11 and infections have been recorded in each of Germany’s 16 federal states infections. The German Federal Ministry of Health has recommended that major events with more than 1,000 participants should be called off and on Thursday (March 12), Chancellor Angela Merkel advised citizens to ‘carefully scrutinise’ whether or not to participate at any event, including gatherings attracting fewer than 1,000 participants.
Under the current circumstances it is very likely that the relevant ministries and health authorities might also prohibit major events with more than 1,000 participants scheduled for May 2020.
“Given the current situation and its extremely dynamic proportions, paired with the unforeseeable consequences of the pandemic, WZF as Interzoo organiser, as well as NürnbergMesse being assigned with the organisation of the event, are unable to sufficiently guarantee for the health of all trade fair participants if the event were to take place in May as scheduled,” a spokesman said.
NO OTHER SOLUTION
And WZF managing director Alexandra Facklamm explained: “Holding Interzoo in May 2020 is unfortunately impossible.”
Interzoo is the world’s leading trade fair for the global pet supplies industry, attracting trade visitors from more than 120 countries.
Dr Rowena Arzt, WZF’s director exhibitions, said: “Until recently, all indications were that the May 2020 trade fair would prove to be a highly successful event. Exhibitors and visitors alike expect the global industry’s premier trade fair to provide them with sterling international trade contacts and excellent opportunities for business.
“Based on the current situation, it is impossible for an event in May to honour this performance bond. Apart from the self-evident health risk, the massive travel restrictions currently experienced do not allow unimpeded transnational traffic.
Norbert Holthenrich, president of Germany’s Pet Trade and Industry Association, the sponsor of Interzoo, added: “Postponing Interzoo is a challenging, but necessary step. For the sake of the industry and to serve its interests in the best possible way, we see no other solution. We sincerely hope that our members, exhibitors and stakeholders understand that this was the only sensible choice we could make.”
Rowena Artz concluded: “We are aware of the major importance this trade fair holds for all stakeholders involved. This is why we are working full speed together with NürnbergMesse on an alternative date for the trade show. We aim to announce the new date as soon as possible.”
