Paperworld 2021 cancelled

Messe Frankfurt has announced that it is cancelling Paperworld, which was due to take place alongside new event International Consumer Goods Show, in April 2021.

With events effectively banned in Germany, alongside ongoing international travel restrictions, it has been difficult for Messe Frankfurt to make any plans for the trade fair.

Organisers said that that exhibitors are faced with huge uncertainties regarding who will be allowed to be present and their customer contacts, making it extremely difficult for them to commit to trade fair participation.

“The coronavirus pandemic has taken centre-stage, and our plans have not escaped its impact” said Detlef Braun, Member of the Executive Board of Messe Frankfurt. “In light of the current situation, it would not be possible for us to satisfy our customers’ requirements for international trade fairs in April.”

Messe Frankfurt will be focussing on the new digital offerings it has created for 2021. Consumer Goods Digital Day on 20 April will offer customers the opportunity to get together at a digital location, engage in conversation and gather information.

The Digital Day content will be focused on ways in which retailers can help their businesses. Braun commented: “The ongoing shutdown of retailers in our visitor countries has made relevant up-to-date information and solutions essential, and we are satisfying this demand with our digital offerings during this volatile time. As you know, we are also continuing to do everything in our power to make safe and successful trade fairs possible, because nothing can take the place of face-to-face encounters.”

Paperworld and Creativeworld will next take place from 29 January to 1 February 2022.