HP will not exhibit at drupa 2021, as the company prioritises employee and customer health and safety.
Messe Düsseldorf was forced to pull the instalments of interpack and drupa that were due to take place this year as the coronavirus global health crisis caused untold damage to societies and economies the world over.
Whilst both shows have been rearranged for early in 2021, HP has become the latest name to pull itself from the drupa 2021 floor plan as it and the wider industry have found new and alternative means to present new technologies and launch services to support growth in digital printing. Earlier this year, HP hosted a series of webinars and online launch events to introduce its next generation of digital printing technology for labels and packaging. Virtual and online exhibition platforms such as the forthcoming Printing Expo and Printing United Digital Experience have provided further means for suppliers to reach new and existing audiences in the midst of a global health crisis.
Bobst, Heidelberg, Komori, Kodak, Fujifilm, Siegwerk, Screen and Dantex are notable names amongst those to have withdrawn their planned participation at drupa 2021. Conversely, Koenig & Bauer, Windmöller & Hölscher, Kurz and Kama have stated their intent to take part, as has Mark Andy.
In a statement regarding its position, a spokesperson for HP said, ‘In light of the Covid-19 pandemic, health and safety of our employees and customers remains our highest priority and therefore HP will not have a physical presence at interpack and drupa 2021.’
drupa will shortly be making an online portal available to exhibitors and visitors as part of an effort to allow the print industry to connect, discuss trending themes and present product portfolios. It remains to be seen if and how those who will not have a physical presence at drupa 2021 in Dusseldorf will take part virtually.
