Integrated Systems Europe – an exhibition in limbo

With just three months to go before ISE 2021 Barcelona is due to be staged, Integrated Systems Events MD Mike Blackman has written to all exhibitors.

“Together with each of you, our shared goal is to deliver a show that prioritises safety and brings a return on investment to our show community,” the statement reads. “With the rapid implementation of vaccines, and the current reduction in daily new cases, we see the COVID situation in many European countries (including Spain) improving at an increasing pace. Based on this positive trend, we anticipate a climate that will make it possible to run an in-person event in Barcelona. However, we are realistic that current attitudes to travel may mean a lower volume of attendance than in previous years.

“We are reviewing all options and are listening carefully to feedback from the industry, with a plan to provide an engaging event in Barcelona for those who wish to be a part of it. With a community of over 1,000 exhibitors and nearly 100,000 attendees, ISE has grown through working together and remains focused on growing the market and delivering opportunities for the industry. We recognise, however, that not all the members of our community are in the same place as we conceive of gathering together or travelling to Barcelona.

“For those exhibitors and attendees who are unable to travel to Barcelona, we will offer a robust digital programme highlighting unique content that can only be found at ISE. In addition, we are exploring regional opportunities for the local markets of Germany, the Netherlands and the UK, taking ISE on the road for those who may not be able to make it to Barcelona. Recognising and respecting the many members of our community, we wish to give all our exhibitors the opportunity to choose if they wish to continue to be part of ISE 2021 Barcelona, without hindrance.”

The letter explains that exhibitors who either wish to withdraw from the show or downscale their activities before 5 March can do so without penalty, thus entitling them to a full refund or credit towards ISE 2022. In addition, all exhibitors retain priority points from ISE 2020, allowing them to participate in the rebooking process for ISE 2022 as dependent on their points and priority ranking. It would appear credible that a further announcement regarding the staging of ISE 2021 will be made next week based on exhibitor feedback.