London’s virtual EAG show has been postponed to an as-yet undetermined date which was originally scheduled for January 27-28 this year. The organiser said that the decision over EAG Online 2021 was a reaction to the latest government regulations in face of the UK and much of Europe now being in lockdown. The show is designed to continue EAG International’s support for the entertainment attractions and gaming industries by showcasing new products and encouraging networking by industry stakeholders during the pandemic.

BACTA CEO John White said the decision to delay the show was taken to help the exhibitors to focus on current pressing issues. “This was a tough decision, but the right one. Members, both exhibitors and potential visitors, are closed with staff on furlough. With the current uncertainty around when the sector will get going again, they wanted to focus on a show at a time when they could see current public policy measures and the roll out of the vaccines giving a clearer line of sight to re-opening. Hopefully, that will not be too far away, and we can get a date in the diary for an EAG Show that will kick start the return of this great industry.”

Martin Burlin, chairman of EAG International, emphasised that the postponement should be viewed in a positive light. “Our preparations are almost complete and we’ve had great support from exhibitors, as well as assembling a full seminar schedule. The online show was conceived to help EAG’s customers during these difficult days. The recent government announcements have changed the situation, meaning that the January dates would be more of a hindrance than a help to our customers. We believe that the show’s postponement will take the pressure off companies, suppliers and operators, allowing them to continue to focus on their businesses and staff at this very difficult time. We will continue to market EAG Online and registration will remain open. We are moving forward in a positive frame of mind and will continue to work with our exhibitors, many of whom have welcomed the additional preparation time that the decision has given them.” (2021/01/14)