Vetaphone, the leading manufacturer of surface treatment technology for the printing, coating, laminating and extruding market sectors has withdrawn from all major trade show participation in 2021. The decision comes on the back of numerous show postponements in 2020 and is an acknowledgement of the changed trading conditions brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Speaking for the company, CEO Frank Eisby explained: “The health and safety of our employees and customers remains our top priority in these unusual and difficult times. We have not had a physical presence at any international trade show in 2020, and with no way of knowing what impact the Covid virus will continue to have going forward, have taken the decision not to commit resources for such events in 2021.”

Despite the challenging trading conditions this year, global business has remained buoyant for the Danish company, which has been innovative with its sales and support teams and utilized the raft of new online technology that is available. This included a highly successful online launch of its new Test Lab facility earlier in the year.

“We are all increasingly aware of the environmental impact of our carbon footprint, and transporting exhibition stands and displays around the World is becoming morally as well as financially unsustainable.  Far better, that we invest these resources in new concepts that will bring a more personalised approach to customer contact and the sharing of our knowledge and expertise,” he added.

Plans are already well advanced for regional and global online events in 2021 that will focus on improved customer interaction and offer a safer and more sustainable approach than that offered by trade shows. As an acknowledgment to the importance of the Asian market, and to continue the company’s growth in this sector, Vetaphone will commit to a limited trade show presence in the region in 2021.

“The issues we have all had to contend with in 2020 have provided a unique opportunity to evaluate how we currently do business, and how we should do it in the future. I’d like to assure existing and potential customers that Vetaphone will continue to innovate and develop surface treatment technology and find new ways of sharing its vast experience for the benefit of all,” he concluded.