Reed Gift Fairs has announced that it has postponed its upcoming Melbourne shows to 2021.
The Melbourne Gift Fair, which was originally supposed to take place from 9-12 October 2020 alongside the Life InStyle show, has now been rescheduled to take place from 31 July to 4 August 2021.
Life InStyle Melbourne has been rescheduled to take place at the Royal Exhibition Building from 29 July to 1 August, 2021.
The move follows the recent escalation of COVID-19 cases in Victoria.
In a statement Reed said that the decision came after consultation with the market.
"We are in unprecedented times and continue to witness first-hand the challenging impact of COVID-19 on all industries, both professionally and personally.
"Prior to the recent escalation of COVID-19 in Victoria, we were optimistic that Reed Gift Fairs Melbourne would run safely and successfully in October this year, and our principle focus was on ensuring that the rescheduled dates were ideally positioned to support our community.
"However, following consultation with you, our customers, and all other stakeholders, we have concluded that the best option is to refocus on maximising business opportunities for wholesalers and retailers in 2021 at both Reed Gift Fairs Sydney (February, ICC Sydney) and Reed Gift Fairs Melbourne (August, MCEC).
"We appreciate that this is disappointing news, however we have made this decision with everyone’s health and safety as our number one priority.
"We can now look ahead to the 2021 editions of Reed Gift Fairs in Sydney and Melbourne with more certainty," the business said.
The business added that it appreciates the support it has received from its exhibitors.
"We will continue to do our utmost to help all our customers, partners and attendees to prepare for the 2021 events.
"While we are disappointed that we are unable to meet face-to-face in Melbourne in 2020, we remain committed to keeping Australia’s vibrant retail community connected over the coming months.
"We once again thank all of our exhibitors, visitors and partners for their encouragement and support during this challenging time," Reed said.