Due to Covid-19, Metstrade is going to look a little different this year. But Metstrade 2020 is still on track. With a new safe, responsible and hospitable protocol in place, our team is committed to delivering a safe and successful show in November.

We have listened to our visitors and exhibitors. Our recent survey among previous visitors pointed out that no less than 71 percent are very interested in visiting the show, and more than 1,250 exhibitors have registered so far. We are excited to see that so many have the desire to bring the industry together.

But we also understand uncertainty, and we put quality above everything and looking at the longer term. Together with the International Council of Marine Industry Associations, we have issued a temporary adjustment to our cancellation policy to take away any concerns. This means that companies that want to cancel their participation in Metstrade 2020 can do so free of charge, provided they commit to Metstrade 2021 before Aug. 1.

Metstrade 2020 will be a hybrid event. Award ceremonies, presentations and panel discussions will be simultaneously available online.

In addition, Metstrade will offer the opportunity to virtually join exhibitors and visitors present in the RAI with online matchmaking tools. This way we will engage those who were forced to stay at home so that they can also be part of this year’s Metstrade.

“Metstrade’s strength lies in connecting people,” says show director Niels Klarenbeek. “Metstrade is the world’s largest trade exhibition for equipment, materials and systems for the international leisure marine industry. We believe that we can bring our physical event to a higher platform where the best of both worlds, offline and online, seamlessly merge in a hybrid event in November.

About Metstrade

Metstrade is the world’s largest trade exhibition for equipment, materials and systems for the international leisure marine industry and is organized by RAI Amsterdam in cooperation with ICOMIA. The event’s target group includes yacht builders, naval architects, refit yards, distributors, dealers, wholesalers, captains, marina owners and marine equipment manufacturers worldwide. Metstrade 2020 will take place Nov. 17-19 at RAI Amsterdam. 

This article originally appeared in the August 2020 issue.