International exhibition organiser Hyve Group has announced the cancellation of its UK Autumn Fair, a decision it said “reflecting conversations between the organisers and the community”.
The new dates for the live event’s return to the NEC Birmingham are 5-8 Sept 2021.
Autumn Fair is a key UK and international marketplace for the home and gift retail industry.
Hyve also announced its intention to run its Spring Fair, as planned, 7-11 February 2021.
The statement from Hyve said it would now be working closely with partners and clients to deliver a virtual forum this September with seminar content. The organiser promised more information on the virtual forum in due course.
“We have been listening to both our exhibitors and visitors, and the feedback from the market has been incredibly supportive of Autumn Fair,” said Jessica Dawnay, Event Director – Spring & Autumn Fair. “We’re excited to have the opportunity to take a fresh approach and launch a virtual forum this September.
“We are also looking forward to when the industry can meet again in person and will focus all efforts and resources on helping the industry bounce back in 2021, both at Spring Fair in February 2021, and Autumn Fair taking place 5-8 September 2021.”
Chairman of the UK's Business Visits and Events Partnership, Michael Hirst, called the cancellation of the show, "Another big loss to national and local economy due to no certainty of tradefair restart date".
“Autumn Fair is consistently one of our favourite and important exhibitions of the year. That said, the idea of a virtual show is inspired, and I look forward to getting fully involved in showcasing our latest puppet and soft toy collections online.” said Peter Lockey, The Puppet Company Ltd.
More news and updates on Autumn Fair can be found on The Community hub.
