Plastics Recycling Show Europe, which was due to take place in Amsterdam March 25-26, has been postponed due to the spread of the coronavirus around the globe.
The decision was made following consultations with exhibitors, speakers, pre-registered visitors and the venue, and considering the significant impact of international travel at this time.
Until now, organizers Crain Communications Inc. and PRE, the European association for plastics recyclers, have been following the guidelines issued by the Dutch government and public health authorities. However, in the light of the very international character of this event and increasing concerns about the outbreak, the very difficult decision to cancel the event has now been taken.
“As the news has been progressing, we have listened to the concerns of all parties. And today, we are therefore announcing the postponement of the PRSE 2020 until later in the year," said Matt Barber, sales & events director at Crain Communications. Crain is the parent company of Sustainable Plastics and Plastics News.
“While we are extremely regretful to have to take this action, the well-being of our visitors, exhibitors and staff is of the utmost importance and must be our first priority," the statement continued. "We are currently liaising with our exhibitors and other stakeholders to arrange alternative dates for PRSE. We will issue a further announcement as soon as dates are confirmed."
The decision echoes the move by other events in the region. The Society of Plastics Engineers announced March 10 that the 12th European Thermoforming Conference, originally set for March 18-20 in Geneva, has been postponed to Sept. 30-Oct. 2.