As the virus continues to create havoc around the world, The Inspired Home Show has made the decision to not run the International Sourcing Expo at the upcoming show in March.
In consultation with Chinese pavilion organisers and exhibitors, the show’s organiser, the International Housewares Association (IHA), decided to close the expo.
“This decision was made to protect the health, safety and wellbeing of the industry from concerns about exposure to the virus,” says Derek Miller, IHA president.
“The rest of The Inspired Home Show, to be held 14 to 17 March at Chicago’s McCormick Place Convention Centre, will continue as planned with the Dine + Décor, Clean + Contain, Wired + Well and Discover | design expos showcasing the latest and most innovative home and housewares products to key, specialty and independent retailers and distributors.”
Show attendees coming from China will also be subject to US customs and immigration policies that temporarily deny entry into the United States of foreign nationals who have visited China within 14 days of arriving in the US.
IHA will continue to follow the guidance of the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and is working with the City of Chicago and McCormick Place officials on the development of precautionary measures to further reduce health risks at the show.
The Inspired Home Show 2020 will feature 2,000 exhibitors from around the world including 400 new companies exhibiting for the first time. More than 51,000 total attendees, including buyers from 130 countries, are expected.
