While Australia’s borders are reopening again for international travel, China’s borders have closed after the latest surge in Covid cases, making it impossible for the homewares and lifestyle fair to go ahead.
Originally slated for September this year, organiser Messe Frankfurt has decided to reschedule the 14th edition of Interior Lifestyle China to 2023.
Messe Frankfurt (HK) senior general manager, Wendy Wen, says they had no choice but to move the show to next year.
“Although regrettable, it was necessary to make this decision at an early stage to give exhibitors some certainty when planning their marketing budgets for the calendar year,” she explains.
“Following the latest wave of Omicron, it’s highly doubtful that China’s international borders will open in time for a productive show this September.
“Given that around 50 per cent of our exhibitors are international, this postponement is in the best interest of all parties including domestic buyers, who would have suffered from a reduced product range had the fair been held this year.”
Instead, a series of roadshows in China as well as networking events will help domestic buyers discover what’s new and next in high-end design.
“While we focus on a strong comeback in 2023, our roadshows will allow brands to connect with the Chinese domestic market and enjoy meaningful engagement with buyers in the meantime,” Wen adds.
