Ross Video is the latest big manufacturer to pull out of the upcoming IBC tech show in Amsterdam.
Panasonic similarly pulled out of the show on Monday citing concerns over the ongoing Coronavirus crisis.
Ross Video said in its statement:
“While everyone at Ross understands that the public health situation will likely be more positive by September, it is clear to us that social distancing rules are likely to remain in force for the remainder of the year, and many countries will still be tightly regulating international travel and large gatherings and events. Given these facts, and the possibility of visitors to Amsterdam contributing to a second wave of infection, we cannot commit to the IBC exhibition in good conscience.”
“Everyone wants the world to return to normal as soon as possible,” said CEO David Ross, “but not at any cost. The media industry has played an important role in spreading and reinforcing the message that social distancing saves lives. It’s therefore incongruous for the same media industry to try and hold one of the world’s first very large international gatherings. We value the IBC exhibition and it’s an important part of our annual calendar, but our approach to the COVID-19 virus has consistently prioritised health and welfare. Our decision today is based on that same principle, and I would call on the organizers of IBC to follow suit, remove any uncertainty, and cancel the event for 2020.”
Jon Creamer
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