Euro Bus Expo has been postponed until 2021, organiser Diversified Communications UK has announced. The coach and bus industry trade show will now take place on 26-28 October 2021 at the NEC Birmingham.
Reasons for Euro Bus Expo being postponed include the extent of how the sector has been affected by the coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic and possible ongoing restrictions of large gatherings. Potential difficulty around travel for foreign exhibitors and visitors is also a factor.
Says Event Director Helen Conway: “We have been closely following the rapidly changing developments during these testing times. While we know that the coach and bus industry is highly resilient, we are mindful that for many in the sector 2020 is likely to be the most difficult year that they have faced.
“Although we remain hopeful that tough measures on restricted social interaction will have been relaxed by the autumn, too many questions remain surrounding practical arrangements for it to be viable to run Euro Bus Expo this year.
“The safety and success of our exhibitors, speakers and visitors is our utmost priority. Planning is already underway for Euro Bus Expo 2021. We will go into the rescheduled event with a great deal of momentum and we look forward to delivering a show that the industry can be proud of.”
The Confederation of Passenger Transport (CPT) says it “understands” the move.
Adds Chief Executive Graham Vidler: “The coach and bus industry is currently facing challenges that are unprecedented. With that in mind, CPT understands the decision to postpone Euro Bus Expo.
“It is a highlight of the calendar and presents members of the industry with an unrivalled opportunity to network with our peers, but the safety and wellbeing of exhibitors, speakers and visitors must always come first.
“In the meantime, myself and my team at CPT remain committed to supporting members and ensuring that the vital contribution that they continue to make to the UK’s successful recovery from coronavirus COVID-19 is recognised. I look forward to Euro Bus Expo in 2021.”
Euro Bus Expo was originally scheduled to take place on 3-5 November at the NEC Birmingham.
Diversified Communications UK has simultaneously announced that the routeone Awards will also be postponed to 2021. The presentation ceremony will take place on 27 October 2021 at The Vox, Resorts World, Birmingham,
