ITB Berlin 2020 is not going to happen
Berlin, February 28, 2020 – ITB Berlin 2020 does not take place. Due to the rapid spread of the new coronavirus (COVID-19), the Federal Ministry of Health and the Federal Ministry of Economics have expressed their opinion on the cancellation of ITB Berlin. The responsible health authority for the Berlin district of Charlottenburg-Wilmersdorf has tightened the implementation of the event this evening at 1827. The authority has stipulated, among other things, that every participant must prove to Messe Berlin that they do not come from a certain risk area or that they have not been in contact with a person or persons from a risk area. Messe Berlin cannot meet these requirements as a whole.
Messe Berlin had announced for weeks that a decision to hold or cancel major events would only be made on the basis of recommendations or instructions from the relevant specialist authorities. Only they have the information and expertise necessary to draw the right conclusions.
Dr. Christian Göke, CEO of Messe Berlin GmbH, said: “With more than 10,000 exhibitors from over 180 countries, ITB Berlin is of great importance for the world’s tourism industry. We take our responsibility for the health and safety of our visitors, exhibitors and employees very seriously. It is with a heavy heart that we now have to come to terms with the cancellation of ITB Berlin 2020. “
Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Messe Berlin Wolf-Dieter Wolf said: “ITB Berlin and Messe Berlin have never experienced a similar situation in the 54-year history of the event. We would like to thank all exhibitors and partners from all over the world who have stood by ITB Berlin over the past few days and weeks. We look forward to continuing the trustworthy relationship with our market partners. “
About ITB Berlin
With around 10,000 exhibitors from more than 180 countries and a total of 160,000 visitors, ITB Berlin is the world’s leading travel fair. In 2021 it will take place from March 10th to 14th. You can find detailed information on ITB Berlin and the ITB trade fairs abroad on the new global platform at www.itb.com. Despite the cancellation, users can connect with other participants, exchange opinions and stay in contact with ITB. In addition, users have the opportunity to do business 365 days a year, network and get information on all four ITB trade shows, and offer newcomers easy access to the industry.
About Messe Berlin
In terms of sales and growth, Messe Berlin is one of the world’s ten leading exhibition companies. Every year it develops, markets and hosts hundreds of live events in Berlin and around the world. The broad portfolio includes ITB, IFA, InnoTrans, FRUIT LOGISTICA and the International Green Week, all of the world’s leading trade fairs as well as major conferences and cult events such as the street party (fan mile) at the Brandenburg Gate. Messe Berlin has around 90 foreign representatives who market events in over 170 countries. Every year around 30,000 media representatives from all parts of the world receive accreditation for events on the exhibition grounds in Berlin, where the company is headquartered. This makes Messe Berlin a driving force in the Berlin metropolis. The aim is to be an excellent host for visitors to every event at Messe Berlin, to give individuals an optimal boost for their business and to guarantee fair conditions for everyone. This approach is reflected in the company slogan “Messe Berlin – Hosting the World”.
