Exhibition News June 2020 | Page 6

News NEWS IN BRIEF This year marks the fifth edition of Global Exhibitions Day (GED), which is celebrated on 3 June 2020. The theme for GED 2020 is powerful: ‘exhibitions are key to rebuilding economies’. The occasion is actively supported by global association of the exhibition industry, UFI, and 41 partner associations throughout the world. Visit: www. globalexhibitionsday.org The University of Westminster’s digitally savvy BA Hons Tourism and Events Management students are looking for opportunities to apply their knowledge and the experience they have gained during their studies. If you are looking to provide vital experience, please contact Lindsey Hanford at L.Hanford@ westminster.ac.uk Gateshead Council’s development partner Ask:PATRIZIA has submitted a full planning application for the £260m Gateshead Quay arena, conference and exhibition centre. The 7,400sqm development is situated on the Newcastle Gateshead Quayside, directly in front of the Millennium bridge. The venue will host both international conferences and exhibitions in addition to music and cultural events. The month at a glance The stories, topics and trends making headlines in recent weeks #EventProfs Got Talent 2020 goes live Expocast and Mash Media has announced #EventProfs Got Talent 2020, which will launch on 3 June to mark Global Exhibitions Day. Entries are now open to everyone working in the events industry around the world. Those wanting to get involved will need send in a video of them performing their talent, and judges will determine the finalists, who will then have the chance to perform live at the EN Awards, which will take place in London when it is safe to do so. To find out more about entering and to learn the full criteria, email Natasha Layal on epgt@expocast. co.uk. MCM Comic Con cancels Birmingham, Manchester and Scotland events Organisers of the MCM Comic Con conventions in the UK have cancelled the rest of their planned UK events this summer across the UK. The decision to cancel the Manchester, Birmingham and Scotland events follows the London gathering earlier being postponed due to the ongoing Covid-19 crisis. An organiser statement read: “It is with a heavy heart that we today announce the cancellation of MCM Birmingham Comic Con June, MCM London Comic Con July, MCM Manchester Comic Con August, and MCM Scotland Comic Con September following the escalation of Covid-19 in the UK, Europe, and globally. “Our aim since the beginning has always been to put on the best events for you as possible, a space for you to gather together, be yourselves, and make memories with those who matter to you most. Unfortunately, after extensive discussions with all the relevant public health, local and national authorities we have taken the difficult decision not to go ahead with the events at this time. “Refunds for ticket holders, pre-paid photo and autographs, exhibitors, retailers and artists will all be automatically processed, with no further action needed on your part. We aim to have all refunds processed before the end of June and we appreciate your continued patience and understanding.” Organisers pledged to return as a physical even “when safe to do so”. 06 — June