Coronavirus is continuing to impact on trade shows, with the latest cancellation being The Inspired House Show in Chicago. Following careful consideration regarding the ongoing spread of coronavirus internationally, to include recent cases in the US, the International Housewares Association’s (IHA) Board of Directors has decided not to hold The Inspired Home Show 2020, which was scheduled to take place next week from March 14-17 at McCormick Place in Chicago.
“For the last few weeks, we have been watching this situation very carefully, with our primary concern being the safety and wellbeing of the home and housewares industry,” stated Derek Miller, IHA president. “The IHA Board of Directors made this decision after consulting with industry constituents including exhibitors and retailers. In the end, the global nature of our event, combined with the worldwide concern regarding the coronavirus outbreak and ongoing travel restrictions, make it impossible for us to hold The Inspired Home Show next week.”
The IHA Board of Directors and IHA staff will be working together over the next few weeks to measure the financial impact on the industry and the Association. Once an analysis is complete, additional information regarding exhibitor refunds will be made available.
IHA had previously announced that the International Sourcing Expo, which primarily houses Chinese-based suppliers, would not open in 2020 due to the restrictions on travel between China and the United States.
The Inspired Home Show 2021 will be held March 13-16 at Chicago’s McCormick Place Complex.
Due to continuing concerns over the coronavirus outbreak, the Hong Kong Gifts & Premium Fair and Hong Kong Houseware Fair are two of eight April shows that have been postponed by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC). The shows have been rescheduled for July.
