SEMA cancels 2020 Show

SEMA, the US Specialty Equipment Market Association, has cancelled its 2020 Show, due to take place 3-7 November in Las Vegas. The association said it made the decision due to Covid-19 and concerns that event facilities and services will be unavailable. It was informed by difficulties in preparations arising from “mounting uncertainty” about the show’s status. It added that full refunds for SEMA Show exhibitor booth deposits and attendee registration fees will be issued.

“The SEMA Show is committed to furthering businesses in the automotive specialty equipment market, and to providing manufacturers and buyers with the best opportunity to connect, promote new products and discover new trends,” said Chris Kersting, SEMA president and CEO. “We appreciate the spirit, hard work and innovation our industry puts into the SEMA Show each year. While we are disappointed circumstances prevent us from hosting the Show in November, we look forward to getting everyone together in 2021 for another outstanding event.”

Recent SEMA Show survey results indicated interest in a possible virtual tradecshow with related live elements. SEMA said it will work with industry members to determine interest levels on specific alternatives.

The show joins other large international auto industry exhibitions to cancel or postpone 2020 plans in the wake of the pandemic. Germany’s The Tire Cologne, The Geneva International Motor Show, and even the Italian Autopromotec event scheduled for 2021 have all rearranged events as a direct result.