STAMFORD, CONN. — As the American Pet Products Association (APPA) and Pet Industry Distributors Association (PIDA) prepare for the 17^th annual Global Pet Expo in 2021, organizers announced June 15 it is offering extended applications, cancellation periods and payment flexibility for exhibitors.

These measures have been implemented to minimize the financial burden on pet industry companies as they continue to cope with COVID-19 impacts.

Booth space applications were opened on June 15, 2020 for the event scheduled March 24-26, 2021 at the Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) in Orlando, Fla.

The same booth prices offered for the 2020 show will be offered to exhibitors for the 2021 event. Additionally, exhibitors will be allowed to make smaller deposits, offered extended time to make final payments, and an extended cancellation period.

Organizers urged exhibitors to apply as early as possible to secure their place on the priority list, which will close Aug. 31, 2020.

“The health and wellbeing of our participants is paramount,” said Andrew Darmohraj, executive vice president and chief operating officer of APPA. “Exhibitors, buyers and all attendees alike can expect to hear from us in the coming months with regular safety updates. We are committed to producing an event that provides attendees the ability to focus on and conduct the business they are coming to our show to do.”

Trade show organizers also provided updates on its collaborative efforts to ensure attendee safety.

This includes OCCC working to obtain a Star Facility Accreditation from Global Biorisk Advisory Council (GBAC), the city of Orlando’s involvement in the Orange County Economic Recovery Task Force to reopen the city as safely as possible, adhering to guidance from the International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE), and working with the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) and World Health Organization (WHO) to accommodate international attendees.

“Global Pet Expo is an important opportunity for the pet industry as participants look to reconnect and build new partnerships,” Darmohraj said. “We are truly grateful for the continued support from our loyal exhibitors and attendees who come from 80 countries to participate in Global Pet Expo each year, and we are dedicated to planning a successful and safe trade show in 2021.” 

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