It was a decision that many knew was coming but for an industry that plans its investment around “drupa years” the move to postpone the mega printing trade show until April 2021 is still a blow.
Messe Düsseldorf has announced the tradeshow, which was scheduled for June 16 to 26, 2020 will now be held from April 20 to 30, 2021 as COVID-19 continues its deadly march around the planet.
Hundreds of printing technology suppliers who would have been kicking their logistical planning into gear this month are now re-examining how they can best show printers their wares with some creative ideas no doubt looming large on the horizon.
Durst Oceania managing director Matt Ashman said while the decision to delay drupa is significant, safety is the number one priority for this family owned business.
“The message from Durst is we have to put safety first. Safety is the number one priority so we can get through this and drupa will still be here next year,” Ashman told Sprinter.
Konica Minolta general manager production and industrial print Sue Threlfo said whilst the writing was on the wall, the decision to postpone the event is no doubt disappointing.
“Although we are disappointed with the postponement, it did seem inevitable,” Threlfo told Sprinter.
“The team at Konica Minolta will now work to find creative ways to share the innovative solutions and technology that were to be exhibited at drupa, just on home soil. Printers looking to grow their business with new technology will still be able to learn about these new solutions, just without leaving Australia.”
It was a similar message from Ricoh.
Ricoh Australia national manager commercial and industrial print Simon Lane said the decision to postpone was “a wise one” and Ricoh looks forward to seeing Australian printers on its stand next April.
“We respect the decision of the medical experts and conference organisers, who have wisely chosen to postpone drupa until we see an improvement to this global pandemic,” Lane told Sprinter.
Bolza-Schunemann earlier issued a global statement: “drupa is the leading trade fair and the highlight of an entire industry. This is why we stand behind the responsible decision of Messe Dusseldorf to postpone drupa until April 2021 due to the current threat posed by the corona virus. The safety and health of all those involved has top priority. Nevertheless: we at Koenig & Bauer have put a lot of energy and heart and soul into drupa. We would like to share this with you – also in 2021 – and of course on the way there. Stay tuned, it’s worth it!”
Comment below to have your say on this story.
If you have a news story or tip-off, get in touch at editorial@sprinter.com.au.
Sign up to the Sprinter newsletter