As the threat of the coronavirus becoming a worldwide pandemic continues to grow, the International Housewares Association (IHA)’s board of directors has decided not to hold The Inspired Home Show 2020, scheduled to take place 14 to 17 March at McCormick Place in Chicago.
Watching the situation very carefully over the last few weeks, IHA president Derek Miller says their primary concern is the safety and wellbeing of the home and housewares industry.
“The IHA board of directors made this decision after consulting with industry constituents including exhibitors and retailers,” he explains.
“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 several 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 US.
The next Inspired Home Show will be held 13 to 16 March 2021.
