Both fairs slated to go ahead, with safety of visitors and exhibitors ‘very much the main priority’. 

Stuart Whitehill, account director at the Overseas Fairs, has issued an update for exhibitors in the British Pavilions at the Hong Kong Toy Fair and Spielwarenmesse, as uncertainty surrounding the lifting of social distancing measures continues.

As it stands, both shows are slated to go ahead, and booking forms will be sent out shortly. The HKTDC and Spielwarenmesse are both following the advice of government and health authorities, viewing the safety of exhibitors and visitors as ‘very much their main priority’.

The Department for International Trade is again offering grants for both exhibitions, with  £2,500 for Hong Kong and £1,500 for Spielwarenmesse on offer. The Overseas Fair Division, along with other trade associations, has formally requested that the usual eligibility rules and six-grant limit be removed for the next 12-18 months, to help businesses with what will be essential international trade fair marketing activities. “We have not heard yet if this has been successful but we shall keep you posted,” the update reads.

The booking deadline for the HK show is officially the end of May, but it is likely this will be extended. The UK pavilion will be in the same location as in previous years, and the exchange rate means the price represents a slight increase, though the HKTDC is offering each exhibitor a reduction of $1,282. The exchange rate has also slightly increased the price of the Spielwarenmesse UK pavilion. Exhibitors will be informed if any discounts are offered. Bookings are likely to run into June and July, although the official deadline is 31st May.

Stuart adds: “We are not planning to make any major changes to either of the Pavilions this year and in both cases we are holding the usual locations and will continue to operate the same procedures and guidelines as before. If any of you wish to discuss anything with me regarding your location and space then please don’t hesitate to contact me. Like most I am currently working from home getting used to Zoom/Teams and FaceTime calls with colleagues and friends. My mobile number is 07811 402017.”