Ross Video, Canon, Panasonic and Rohde & Schwarz have all withdrawn from this year’s NAB Show.
In a statement, Ross Video said: “As time has passed since the revised dates for 2021 were announced, it has become increasingly apparent that the challenges posed by the fluctuating public health situation in Nevada (and elsewhere around the world), travel restrictions into the USA, logistics and general uncertainty among exhibitors and potential attendees are, regrettably, too great to enable Ross to participate.”
Canon also said the ongoing concerns around the Delta variant had led to its decision to withdraw from the show.
“The communities that NAB and InfoComm represent are something that we will greatly miss this year, but the health and safety of our team members, customers, and potential show guests is our number one priority,” added Canon’s statement.
Panasonic announced its intention to no longer exhibit at NAB on Instagram.
Carter Hoskins, director, Professional Imaging for Panasonic USA said: “It’s hard to believe that it’s already September, which means NAB 2021 is right around the corner. As you prepare for the event, I want to provide an update on Panasonic’s plans for the show.
“After careful consideration of several key factors impacting the show, including the current conditions of the Covid-19 pandemic, we have made the decision not to attend the event in Las Vegas.”
An NAB spokesperson confirmed Panasonic’s withdrawal, adding that the show is going forward as planned.
Rohde & Schwarz said it had taken the decision not to attend next month’s event due to the “ongoing travel embargo to the US for many of its global customers and technology staff, along with the risks presented by the continued rise in Covid cases.”
Joerg Fries, vice president broadcast, amplifiers and media said, “It is with a heavy heart that we have made the decision not to have a booth at this year’s NAB Show. We would like to show our deep appreciation of the NAB organisation and the way it has handled this challenging situation; the organisers have been unfailing in the support given to us as we make these difficult decisions. We look forward to returning to Las Vegas in April 2022 and connecting with our customers and partners face-to-face once again.”
In a video statement NAB CEO and president Gordon Smith said: “We know that many of our exhibiting partners and attendees have had to make very difficult decisions about whether to participate in this year’s Show – particularly our international partners. We respect their decisions as valued partners and look forward to seeing them again, if not next month, then at the 2022 NAB Show in April.”
Sony has also previously announced it was withdrawing from in-person participation.
