NAB has told TVBEurope next year’s move to October is “strictly a 2021 decision” and they intend to resume holding the show in April in 2022.
TVBEurope contacted NAB for comment following our survey that revealed a permanent NAB date change was not in the best interests of the media tech industry.
A spokesperson for NAB said, “Moving NAB Show to October in 2021 was a difficult decision, made with the health and safety of our community top of mind. Ultimately, it enables us to deliver the most productive and best overall experience for our entire show community.
“We understand this move disrupts traditional patterns to which we are accustomed. It’s clear, however, that 2021 will be another extraordinary year, requiring flexibility, non-traditional approaches and a fresh perspective on the part of the industry.”
The spokesperson added that with international travel still expected to be impacted in 2021, the move provides “multiple opportunities to come together where it is safe and productive to do so, in cities and venues around the world, including IBC.”
“It’s imperative that we work together to meet our customers, attendees and exhibitors where they are, instead of where we want them to be. Another consideration is the anticipation that reduced health concerns, a gradual return to normalcy and pent-up buying demand within the industry will spur enough momentum for multiple events in the second half of the year.”
“This is strictly a 2021 decision,” added the spokesperson. “In 2022, we will resume holding NAB Show in April.”
TVBEurope’s poll of the media tech industry’s reaction to NAB’s decision to move to October 2021 saw over 90 per cent respondents state they did not think a permanent move was in the best interests of the industry.
