The cancellation includes the show’s garage equipment section, the Automotive Trade Show. The Commercial Vehicle Partnership, comprising the SMMT, RHA and SOE, and the CV Show Committee decided to consult exhibitors after it recognised in December that the economic downturn has made it difficult for vehicle manufacturers to “commit to large international exhibitions.” Preparations are now in place for a 2010 show, which is scheduled to be in April that year.

Alternative ideas relating to an engineering-based show were floated with the 290 exhibitors that had already signed up for the event, but, according to the organisers, “some support was forthcoming but not enough to retain the credibility that the CV Show has created as a major international event of its type and which the partners and the show committee were keen to maintain.”

“This is of course disappointing, but given the current economic climate and the uncertainty created, it is the only decision we could make. Naturally, the partners are grateful for the NEC’s support for this decision,” said Nigel Emms, the CV Show Committee Chairman. “Future planning for the next Show should be done against the backdrop of the outstanding 2008 event and not a compromise one for 2009."

Paul Everitt, SMMT CEO, added: “2009 will be an extremely challenging year across the motor industry but this decision, while difficult, creates the opportunity to ensure the 2010 event best reflects the changing needs of the road transport industry.” (Tyres & Accessories/Staffordshire, U.K.)