New Hope was forced to cancel Expo West days before it was due to open in early March 2020 as a surge of cancellations made it clear the event was becoming untenable. Exhibitors were initially told a rescheduled show would run 'before the summer,’ but later advised that the event was canceled, and given credit (but not a refund) for exhibit space at Natural Products Expo East.
Expo East was subsequently canceled, with exhibitors urged to regroup in Anaheim in March 2021.
In a statement issued Tuesday, New Hope said it hoped the extra 12 weeks would result in “more of the progress and recovery needed to return to travel and gatherings with the necessary security and safety assurances in place.”
12 weeks notice for cancellation
However, show director Lacey Gautier said that should organizers have to cancel again, registered attendees will be notified via email no later than 12 weeks prior to the show, with refunds for all paid badges.
All exhibitors will in turn “receive guidance on the process for booth credits and refunds.”
Enhanced health and safety measures
Many aspects of Expo West 2021 will be different, added Gautier.
“Events and education will be held Monday through Thursday and exhibits will take place Tuesday through Thursday... We will also be offering virtual options for most of our education sessions to account for decreased room capacities and for those who are unable to travel or to attend the show over the new dates.
“Some of our larger networking events will be altered or cancelled to maintain health and safety measures.”
New health and safety policies for the show include one way arrows, aggressive cleaning and sanitation measures, and new sampling guidelines.
Spark Change: To fill the ‘void’ left by Expo West and East this year, New Hope has created a digital events and content series called ‘Spark Change.’ More details HERE.
