Back in April of this year, there were already speculations of the 2020 SEMA Show being cancelled due to the Coronavirus pandemic. Then during June when the Covid-19 crisis seemed to be getting under control, SEMA released a Coronavirus safety plan so that the show could still continue in a safe manner.
Unfortunately, due to Covid-19 and concerns that event facilities and services will be unavailable, the SEMA Show will not be taking place in 2020. Despite the best efforts of event organizers and industry members, growing uncertainty has brought them to the decision to halt the event.
There is however quite a bit of chatter about a possible virtual tradeshow with related live elements. SEMA is discussing this with industry members to see if a virtual show could possibly be an alternative.
“The SEMA Show is committed to furthering businesses in the automotive specialty equipment market, and to providing manufacturers and buyers with the best opportunity to connect, promote new products and discover new trends,” said Chris Kersting, SEMA president and CEO. “We appreciate the spirit, hard work and innovation our industry puts into the SEMA Show each year. While we are disappointed circumstances prevent us from hosting the Show in November, we look forward to getting everyone together in 2021 for another outstanding event.”
Refunds will be issued for those that have already paid for their booth deposits and attendee registration fees. SEMA has also confirmed that the 2021 show will be back in full swing on November 2-5 of 2021. Stay tuned for more updates on the possible virtual 2020 event.