Events organiser encourages vendors to Book with Confidence despite COVID-19 uncertainty

‘Uncertainty’ just might be the word of the year, as 2020 has certainly had its fair share of unpredictability. Even as coronavirus restrictions ease, with continuous rumours of a ‘second wave’ and increased cases leading to localised lockdowns, the future is still unknown.

Yet as businesses attempt to rebuild the economy and get back on track, and with consumers eager to find a sense of normalcy again, many are keen to do everything they can to improve confidence across the board.

Eager to do its part, Hale Events, the company behind the biggest trade shows in the South West for companies in the tourism sector, has announced its ‘Book with Confidence’ initiative. It means that exhibitors for the company’s future shows can book now and limit their risks in the event of a COVID-related postponement to a maximum 10% of their stand cost.

Based in Somerset, Hale Events organises various trade shows for food, drink, gift and tourism buyers in the region, connecting suppliers with tourism businesses to pre-order goods that will boost their profit margins throughout the year.

Upcoming events in 2021 include The Source Trade Show, the South West’s biggest show for food and drink, on 10th and 11th February; ExpoWest Cornwall, a showcase of regional and national catering, hospitality and food and drink suppliers, on 3rd and 4th March; and The Source Road Show on 17th June, showcasing artisan food and drink producers, alongside hospitality and catering supplies.

Speaking about the campaign, Mike Anderson, Hale Events’ managing director, said: “We recognise how hard it is to plan ahead at the moment. Companies want to book into trade shows, but understandably they’re nervous that, in the case of postponement, they’ll be hit with costs they can’t recover.

“None of us can insure against local lockdowns or other COVID-19-related problems. So, we’re making a commitment to anyone wanting to exhibit at one of our events that
they can ‘Book with Confidence’ by limiting the risk for exhibitors in the case of a COVID-related postponement to a maximum of 10% of their stand cost – even if a last-minute lockdown means that we have to postpone just the week before a show.

“We’re also offering a transfer of the total of any deposit paid to the next edition of the event, so companies can book and plan with some degree of financial certainty.”

Mike continued: “The South West is set to continue being a thriving destination for holiday makers in the coming years, especially as the staycation booms. Our shows can connect companies to independents, multiples and a host of tourist attractions from this region. We have built up substantial data and reliable routes to market over the last 30 years, and our shows take place in locations where there’s free parking, easy access, and plenty of space for buyers to move around with confidence.

“We’re committed to showing solidarity with businesses that have supported us over the years, and to help get them through this difficult period.”

To find out more about Hale Events’ upcoming shows, visit: hale-events.com