Following increasing concern about the developing coronavirus situation, Casual Dining organiser Diversified Communications UK has consulted with the industry and decided to postpone the event to 14-15 July from 24-25 March, at ExCeL London.
Chris Brazier, Group Event Director of Diversified Communications UK, said, “Casual Dining is the single most important business event for many in the restaurant, pub and bar industry. A lot of companies rely on it to meet new and current customers, so this decision has not been taken lightly.
'However, the response to the outbreak is unprecedented, and I think most would agree that it is not a climate in which we want to hold the show. The success, as well as the safety of our exhibitors and visitors, have always been our priority and this continues to be the case.
'We are a strong community, we’re all in this together, and I know everyone will get behind this decision.
“We fully understand and appreciate the level of planning that is required to attend and are so grateful that visitor registration has stayed strong despite the amount of media coverage surrounding COVID-19.'
Brazier concluded, 'Casual Dining would like to thank everyone – our exhibitors, visitors, partners and suppliers for their continued support and patience during this challenging time. I know that the community will continue to support each other during these difficult weeks, and we look forward to seeing you on 14 - 15 July for the biggest celebration of our industry yet.”