In light of current events, AIMExpo, the annual Motorcycle Industry Council trade show, just released their decision to cancel their 2021 event. AIMExpo is a large, indoor convention that was slated for January 2021.
Cinnamon Kernes, MIC Board vice president and general manager of MIC Events, said, “we have made the difficult decision to postpone the 2021 AIMExpo, the industry’s annual trade show, and while this wasn’t an easy choice it is certainly the right one.
“With local directives limiting gathering size, travel restrictions, and a myriad of other obstacles created by the pandemic, there are too many unknown factors limiting our ability to create a safe environment that will also deliver the experience and ROI our exhibitors and attendees expect. We do not want to deliver a show that doesn’t live up to their high standards.”
She also cited impact to industry partners resulting from “devastating damage from fires, hurricanes, and floods” as part of the consideration for canceling the 2021 event.
Earlier this year AIMExpo and Tucker Powersports announced co-locating shows. Tucker supports the decision to postpone and has made a separate announcement regarding their plans for 2021. In it, Marc McAllister, CEO of Tucker Powersports stated: “While we at Tucker were very excited for the opportunity to be a part of the AIME show this year, the health and safety of our dealers and supplier partners has to be our first priority. We want to respect public health restrictions and we don’t want to put anyone at risk. We are now looking forward to reconnecting with the MIC and AIMExpo in 2022.”
Event planning in the midst of a pandemic is no easy feat and with COVID19 still on the loose in the US, those of us in live events have to walk a careful line between safety and providing an event experience that can be appreciated by all.
Cover Photo by Ojo Toluwashe on Unsplash || Body Photo by Rafael Lopes de Lima on Unsplash
Motorcycle Industry News by Eva Rupert. Follow Eva @augusteva.
