Decorex Joburg and 100% Design South Africa were originally scheduled to take place from 06 to 10 of August 2020, at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Gauteng. Instead, on these dates both events will now take place online as an interactive virtual expo.
Developed by the Decorex Africa Portfolio and Reed Exhibition, the intent is to provide exhibitors, members of the trade and the public with a unique online opportunity to engage and conduct “business as unusual”.
“While we do mourn the fact that we are unable to host Decorex Joburg and 100% Design South Africa in their usual format this year, we were determined to do something to stimulate trade and help reignite the economy. So, the virtual expo was born.”
Decorex Africa Portfolio Director Sian Cullingworth says, “Because this is the new normal, we have adapted accordingly and explored new ways to enable trade within what’s currently permissible. While we do mourn the fact that we are unable to host Decorex Joburg and 100% Design South Africa in their usual format this year, we were determined to do something to stimulate trade and help reignite the economy. So, the virtual expo was born. We’re here for our exhibitors and we want them to know that we value and support them. And not only that, our thoughts are with everyone who has been impacted by COVID-19!”
The new digital format of these events will allow visitors to engage with exhibitors on their 3D-rendered exhibition stands and enter booths to Live Chat directly.
Additionally, the brands’ social media channels (such as Facebook, Twitter and Instagram) are being used to showcase live and pre-recorded video content that covers new product launches and interviews with designers and decorators.
“Even once we can return to physical events again, we plan to retain the element of a virtual expo along with each physical show as a value-add for both exhibitors and guests that serves to deepen and extend the experience of the live events even when they are over,” Cullingworth continues.
“Even once we can return to physical events again, we plan to retain the element of a virtual expo along with each physical show as a value-add for both exhibitors and guests that serves to deepen and extend the experience of the live events even when they are over.”
Reed Exhibitions has confirmed that the decision not to host any physical events in 2020 is a result of multiple discussions with the greater industry, and local and national health authorities, about the impact and risks of COVID-19.
However Decorex Africa is looking forward to hosting its four annual interior design and décor shows in 2021, namely: Decorex Durban, Decorex Cape Town, Decorex Joburg and 100% Design South Africa. Each of these will be accompanied by a virtual expo.
READ: Cancelled, postponed or going ahead – upcoming exhibition dates
