Event director at Diversified Communications Helen Conway said: “It’s with heavy hearts that we announce that Coach & Bus UK will not take place as planned this November.
“This is not a decision we have taken lightly, and we understand the significance of the situation. For our exhibitors - who fund the show and rely on the increased business that it generates; for our visitors - who utilise the show to learn, to network, and to plan business developments, and to the wider coach and bus industry.
“We feel this decision is in the best interests of our exhibitors, partners and attendees, and that it is the right step to protect the long-term success of the industry’s premier meeting place.”
The decision was driven by a combination of external factors. First, the industry forces affecting new vehicle production that is impacting on manufacturers’ needs to exhibit this year. These include supply chain difficulties, full order books, significant business model changes and budget constraints following the pandemic.
“Second, is our responsibility to deliver returns for our exhibitors. A lack of vehicles at the show is likely to impact visitor footfall, and we don’t feel that is a risk we can take.
“Third, is meeting the expectations of our visitors, who have well-based preconceptions of the size and scale of the show from its long-standing history of success.
“We know that this will come as a disappointment to suppliers, operators, and the wider coach and bus community who were looking forward to attending. ‘The show must go on’ is in our DNA, and this is the first time that we won’t be providing an annual industry trade show outside of the pandemic. However, by taking this decision, we can focus on delivering a brilliant Euro Bus Expo in 2024, that represents the full breadth of the sector.”
Event director Helen Conway added: “We know these circumstances are temporary and are absolutely confident the industry will bounce back. Though this year’s event will no longer take place, we continue to strive towards our purpose – to connect the industry and support its growth. We’ll be back doing what we do best in 2024.
“In the meantime, we’re consulting with manufacturers, suppliers, and visitors about future developments, and are looking forward to hosting a full-scale, bigger and better exhibition next year, that will be a true representation of the sector.