The Consumer Technology Association (CTA)® announced, 28 July, the cancellation of its CES® 2021 show in Las Vegas. The major event, which attracts around 170,000 visitors annually, had been scheduled for 6-9 January, 2021. Now organisers say they are planning an all-digital experience designed to keep exhibitors and customers connected.
“Amid the pandemic and growing global health concerns about the spread of Covid-19, it’s just not possible to safely convene tens of thousands of people in Las Vegas in early January 2021 to meet and do business in person,” said Gary Shapiro, president and CEO, CTA. “Technology helps us all work, learn and connect during the pandemic – and that innovation will also help us reimagine CES 2021 and bring together the tech community in a meaningful way. By shifting to an all-digital platform for 2021, we can deliver a unique experience that helps our exhibitors connect with existing and new audiences.”
For over 50 years, CES has provided a global stage for innovation and organisers say they plan to return to Las Vegas for CES 2022, combining the best elements of a physical and digital show.
CES® has long been a proving ground for breakthrough technologies and global innovators and a place where the world’s biggest brands do business and meet new partners, and the sharpest innovators hit the stage. It is owned and produced by the Consumer Technology Association (CTA)®. The 2021 show was expected to include the debut of the Las Vegas Convention Center’s new West Hall expansion and The Boring Company’s underground people-mover system.
