The entertainment industry’s market-leading annual trade event took place online. Bacta’s popular business-to-business trade exhibition, The Entertainment, Attractions & Gaming International Expo (EAG), took place online from 20-21 April 2021 due to the pandemic and has been heralded a success by both exhibitors and visitors alike.

Although on a smaller scale to the usual face-to-face exhibition, EAG Online 2021 succeeded in attracting some 31 exhibitors and 981 registrations. The 2-day event gave exhibitors and visitors the opportunity to come together during lockdown to discuss the future of the industry. With a combination of virtual exhibition stands, a lively and varied seminar programme, and bacta’s networking lounge, manufacturers of coin-operated attractions and the wider entertainment and leisure industry had a platform to meet, exchange ideas and plan for the future.

According to Martin Burlin, Chairman of EAG Expo, “EAG broke new ground this year with its online event and I’m delighted it was well-received. While nothing beats meeting face-to-face, EAG Online successfully bridged the gap and gave exhibitors and visitors the opportunity to connect and have meaningful conversations. EAG Online 2021 was truly an international event with many attendees hailing from overseas. I would like to thank all the exhibitors, seminar speakers and visitors who supported the event and embraced the opportunity to get involved in something a little bit different this year.”

EAG usually attracts over 5,000 representatives from the world’s leading tourist attractions, resorts, leisure parks, arcades and holiday venues. Show organiser, Swan Events, is planning for the event to return to ExCeL London as a face-to-face exhibition from 11-13 January 2022. (2021/04/29)