Regardless of the fact that almost all major boat shows around the world have had to be canceled due to the Corona for months, Düsseldorf-based boot sees itself "on track". This was confirmed this morning by Petros Michelidakis, the project manager responsible for the exhibition. One is prepared like an experienced sailor, knowing that "the weather can be unpredictable and that we will achieve our goal even under difficult circumstances".
Petros Michelidakis, Project Director of boot in Düsseldorf
During a sailing trip it is sometimes advisable to stick to the course you have taken if you do not know how strong and where the wind will blow. "This is exactly where we are," said Michelidakis. At the end of November the situation will be assessed again and then announced in the first week of December how things are going.
This first week of December is crucial, since this is when the loading of large yachts in particular begins in order to transport them to Düsseldorf. Until then, Michelidakis asked for patience.
In a greeting message sent earlier, Dr. Stephan Keller, Mayor of Düsseldorf, emphasizes that the city is looking forward to boot and is looking forward to the trade fair in January with confidence. Expect that as a result of the current corona-related restrictions, the number of infections would decrease in the coming weeks. The city, especially the hotel and restaurant industry, is pleased to be able to welcome exhibitors and visitors from home and abroad.
Wolfram Diener, CEO of Messe Düsseldorf, explained that trade fairs are important because of the direct exchange between manufacturers and consumers. In view of the difficult situation, he wished everyone involved courage and enthusiasm.
Boot is to take place from January 23 to 31, 2021, as in previous years in all 17 exhibition halls. The booking situation is consistently very good, said Petros Michelidakis. However, some well-known shipyards will be missing, including Oyster, X-Yachts and Dragonfly. Many other manufacturers have either significantly restricted their presence, such as Bavaria, which only come to the Rhine with two sailing boats, or they are waiting. In all probability, boot Düsseldorf will therefore be able to present noticeably fewer exhibits than before, even if it can take place.
Those in charge of the trade fair draw confidence from the experiences of the Caravan Salon at the beginning of September. A tried and tested hygiene concept is also to be used at boot. Among other things, this provides for the use of 600 hygiene guides to inform visitors and exhibitors about the hygiene measures and ensure that they are observed. Safety is the greatest and most important goal, explained Michelidakis. Nevertheless, "the magic of boot Düsseldorf can still be felt".
