IFA Berlin 2021 Canceled Due to Vaccine Uncertainty

IFA 2021 Event Cancellation Announced

Following a successful, albeit limited, in-person event in 2020, gfu Consumer & Home Electronics GmbH has decided to postpone this year’s IFA. The large consumer electronics trade show, originally scheduled for September 3-7 at the Messe in Berlin, will now be on hold.

Concerns Regarding COVID-19 Variants

Organizers have indicated that the emergence of new COVID-19 variants is a significant factor in their decision. Additionally, the pace and global consistency of vaccine distribution have raised concerns.

The organization explained that key global health indicators haven’t improved sufficiently. This includes the rapid spread of new COVID-19 strains, particularly those originating in South Asia, and ongoing uncertainties surrounding vaccination program implementation worldwide.

Impact on Exhibitors and Attendees

These factors create uncertainty for companies planning to participate in the Berlin event. Media representatives and potential visitors also face challenges in budgeting, making investments, and arranging travel – not only for IFA, but for comparable events globally.

Messe Berlin’s Current Usage

The Messe Berlin convention center is currently serving as both an emergency medical facility and a vaccination center. Other events, such as Berlin Photo Week at ARENA Berlin and SHIFT Mobility, will proceed as planned.

IFA is currently slated to return on September 2, 2022.

MWC Exhibitor Pull-Outs

This announcement coincides with several prominent exhibitors choosing not to participate in-person at MWC, scheduled for late next month in Barcelona. Notable companies withdrawing include Qualcomm, Google, IBM, Nokia, Sony, Oracle, Ericsson, Samsung, and Lenovo.

Like IFA, MWC organizers cite safety precautions as a primary reason. Travel restrictions, reduced exhibitor presence, and a general cautious approach, even among those vaccinated, likely contribute to a scaled-back event.

Hybrid vs. Cancelled Events

MWC will adopt a hybrid format, incorporating both online and in-person exhibits. In contrast, IFA appears to be fully cancelled. A key distinction is that IFA traditionally allows public access, unlike many other industry trade shows.

Update: MWC’s organizers provided TechCrunch with the following statement: