Citing concerns about the coronavirus, organizers for the International Hardware Fair planned in Cologne for March 1 have rescheduled the show for February 21-24, 2021.

“In addition to the countries in Asia already hit by the virus, Italy has now become the first European state affected by cases of infection,” show organizers announced.  “Exhibitors from the tool industry have reiterated their great concern for the health of their employees.”

All existing contracts remain valid.  All paid tickets will be automatically refunded.

“Koelnmesse will centrally issue these refunds in the coming weeks; there is nothing further for ticket buyers to do.”

Some 3,000 exhibitors, including around 1,200 from China, were expected to attend the show.  Registered exhibitors and visitors are now being notified of the postponement.  Web: eisenwarenmesse.com