Following the rapid escalation of the coronavirus alert, the organisers of the Franchising & Business Opportunities have announced the pending show in Sydney will be postponed until later this year.
Exhibition manager Fiona Stacey says “Updated government advice and feedback from exhibitors has made the decision inevitable. The safety of exhibitor and visitors is the top priority and we believe this is the right decision given the circumstances”.
The show will now run from 13-14 November 2020 at the ICC Sydney. The floorplan and special events will all rollover to the new dates.
Fiona says “It is a very challenging time but I know we will get through this together and bounce back stronger than ever. I honestly believe franchising and events like this will be an important part of the recovery”.
Mary Aldred from the Franchise Council of Australia says she supported the decision to postpone. “We have worked closely with the organisers to navigate this evolving situation. This will allow the industry to focus on their people and start planning for the recovery. Everyone is impacted and we have to work together to find the best way forward”.
When asked about the cost of moving the show Fiona said that Specialised Events was committed to the long-term success of the show and would be running a whole new campaign for visitors.
She says “Everyone is impacted and we just have to roll up our sleeves and get on with it”.
The Franchising show is also scheduled for Perth, Brisbane and Melbourne later this year. Organisers say these events are still on track but will be monitored closely.
Visitors are advised to visit the website www.franchisingexpo.com.au for more information.