After carefully considering developments regarding the global spread of coronavirus, The International Housewares Association’s (IHA’s) board of directors has due to take place next week (March 14-17). The news (announced on Tuesday morning) comes as governments brace for rising numbers of coronavirus infections and issue guidelines.
The Inspired Home Show 2020 (organised by the IHA) originally expected to welcome 52,000 attendees, including buyers from 130 countries. It was due to feature 2,200 exhibitors from around the world, although it recently announced that its International Sourcing Expo, (primarily housing Chinese-based suppliers) would not open in 2020 due to the restrictions on travel between China and the US.
“For the last several weeks, we have been watching this situation very carefully, with our primary concern being the safety and well-being of the home and housewares industry,” said Derek Miller, IHA president.
He explained: “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 are 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.
Exhibitors and buyers can continue to connect with each other via The Inspired Home Show’s HousewaresConnect365. The digital resource provides buyers with a simple means to search for companies and brands and view new product photos, videos and catalogues. Buyers can save products in a personal ‘briefcase.’
Visit https://www.theinspiredhomeshow.com/attend/what-is-housewares-connect-365/
* The Inspired Home Show 2021 will be held March 13-16 at Chicago’s McCormick Place Complex. See: TheInspiredHomeShow.com.
Top: The Inspired Home Show would have bought together the global housewares market. Buyers at the opening of the 2019 show are pictured.
