Finally official green light for scholarships starting July 30!

After the disillusionment in the broad events sector in late April, when prospects for the summer and fall failed to materialize, the government promised to bring more clarity on May 11. Since then, corona numbers have been moving quickly in the right direction. Infections and hospitalizations are decreasing rapidly, while vaccination rates continue to rise. Against At the end of August, virtually all Belgians had the opportunity for 2 pricks. Moreover, there were intensive consultations between the various trade federations and government representatives. All this led to the redeeming news.

Specifically, MATEXPO can go on as usual, from Sept. 8 to 12. From now on, fairs will again be covered by trade protocol, as will hospitality and retail. This means that a specific protocol will apply separately from other events such as festivals. Specifically, MATEXPO can be the normal visitor volumes persist, without limitations in absolute numbers! And that in complete safety.

It is possible that some more measures will be in effect by September. We will always communicate transparently about this. What measures, if any, should be in place then, has not yet been finally decided. Classics such as hand gel and running directions may be among them. Good ventilation will be important in every case. For the outdoor stands, this means as many open structures or tents as possible with doors or windows on different sides. For the indoor stands, what gates or doors of the various halls can be left permanently open for maximum ventilation is currently being considered. Permanent CO2 measurement is already provided. Catering will be allowed, however, we ask exhibitors to make their own deal sensibly with the possible serving of alcohol. Thus, it might be possible than visitors should sit when eating or drinking. For the Matexpo Café, the emphasis will also be on networking and not a dance party.

As of today, it is not yet clear whether a vaccination passport check will need to be done in September - or the taking of a quick test for those who have not been vaccinated. MATEXPO is prepared for all of these scenarios, so this does not lead to delay at the entrances to the fair. The VAXPO vaccination center at Kortrijk Xpo is not an obstacle either. There is already an agreement whereby the vaccination center to be relocated no later than Aug. 20.

That the characteristic family atmosphere of MATEXPO However, it is already clear. That this edition may look slightly different? It may. However, this fantastic news means that the MATEXPO organization is continuing unabated with the preparations that had already begun. MATEXPO will be the be first major meeting moment in the industry in nearly 2 years. So it will be, above all, an unforgettable edition in every way!