Following increasing media coverage and concern about the developing coronavirus situation, the British Tourism & Travel Show has been postponed to The 11 to Fri 12 June 2020 at the NEC Birmingham. The British Coach Tourism Awards has also been moved, to take place on the second day of the show, Friday 12 June at the National Motorcycle Museum.
Carsten Holm, managing director of show organiser Diversified Communications UK, says: “The British Tourism & Travel Show is the single most important business event for the domestic tourism sector and despite the current problems, the industry is well placed to benefit from the increasing popularity of staycation and exploring the UK, in favour of overseas destinations. The event is where our industry meets to explore new attractions and destinations, network, learn and do business, so this decision has not been taken lightly.
“The media reaction to the outbreak is unprecedented and I think you will agree that it is not a climate in which we want to hold the show. The success, as well as the safety, of our exhibitors and visitors, has always been our priority and this continues to be the case. We are a strong community and I know everyone will get behind this decision.
“We fully understand and appreciate the level of planning that is required to attend and are so grateful that visitor registration has stayed strong despite the unprecedented media coverage surrounding COVID-19. The British Tourism & Travel Show would like to thank everyone including our exhibitors, visitors, partners and suppliers for their continued support and patience during this challenging time. I know that the community will continue to support each other during these difficult weeks, and we look forward to seeing you in June, for what we hope will be the best celebration our industry has seen for many years.”
• VisitScotland has also just announced that due to the cancellations and travel restrictions following the COVID 19 outbreak, it has decided to cancel this year’s VisitScotland Expo that was due to take place on 1 and 2 April at P&J Live in Aberdeen.
www.visitscotland.org/supporting-your-business/advice/coronavirus
