In a statement sent to the industry late last week, Reed Gift Fairs and Life Instyle have decided to reschedule their Melbourne shows.
After moving the trade fairs from August to October, everyone was hopeful the events would go ahead. Unfortunately recent developments in Victoria have made it so much more difficult to hold a trade fair in a safe environment.
“We are in unprecedented times and continue to witness first-hand the challenging impact of Covid-19 on all industries, both professionally and personally,” the Reed Gift Fairs and Life Instyle teams said in their statement.
“Prior to the recent escalation of Covid-19 in Victoria, we were optimistic that Reed Gift Fairs Melbourne would run safely and successfully in October this year, and our principle focus was on ensuring that the rescheduled dates were ideally positioned to support our community.
“However, following consultation with you, our customers, and all other stakeholders, we have concluded that the best option is to refocus on maximising business opportunities for wholesalers and retailers in 2021 at both Reed Gift Fairs Sydney (February, ICC Sydney) and Reed Gift Fairs Melbourne (August, MCEC).”
This is of course disappointing news, especially after AGHA already announced in April to postpone its August fair. However, the decision was made with everyone’s health and safety as their number one priority and holding a trade fair in these uncertain times would’ve been basically impossible.
“We will continue to do our utmost to help all our customers, partners and attendees to prepare for the 2021 events. While we are disappointed that we are unable to meet face-to-face in Melbourne in 2020, we remain committed to keeping Australia’s vibrant retail community connected over the coming months.”
