The global trade fair had been due to run from June 16th to 26th this year, but will now instead take place from April 20th to 30th in 2021.

Meanwhile, interpack was scheduled to run from May 7th to 13th, but will now be switched to February 25th to March 3rd next year.

“The decision was taken in close consultation with our advisory boards and sponsoring associations,” says Werner Dornscheidt, chairman of the board of management of Messe Düsseldorf.

“It also reflects the wishes of individual industries. As their partner, we are currently doing everything in our power to reduce the economic losses suffered by our exhibitors.”

Thomas Geisel, Lord Mayor of the state capital of Düsseldorf and chairman of the supervisory board of the Düsseldorf trade fair company, adds: “The city of Düsseldorf is following the instructions of the state government. Our aim is to slow down the spread of the corona virus so that the health system can continue to function properly.”

The decision comes after the Messe also postponed a number of other major trade events in response to the global coronavirus pandemic.

At the time of writing, Germany has 3,117 confirmed cases of Covid-19, with seven people having died after contracting the disease. A total of 47 people in the country have fully recovered from coronavirus.

If you have an interesting story or a view on this news, then please e-mail news@printmonthly.co.uk

Follow Rob on: