In a sad day for the industry internationally, the International BoatBuilders’ Exhibition and Conference (IBEX) has announced the cancellation of this year’s show. Organisers have done so in order to prioritise the safety of its staff, exhibitors and partners as a result of weather reports from NOAA showing the imminent arrival and uncertain nature of Tropical Storm Ian, as well as consultation with the City of Tampa, Tampa Convention Centre, and other stakeholders.
The show was scheduled to run from the 27 to 29 of September, 2022 with pre-show events and education planned for the 26 of September.
“It is a very difficult decision to cancel IBEX 2022, as we were on track to have an excellent event,” said Anne Dunbar, IBEX Show Director. “The entire IBEX team is very disappointed, but the safety of our community is our priority. This was the right choice. Additional information will be shared with exhibitors and visitors as we work through our cancellation process.”
“The safety of our team, exhibitors and partners is our top priority and given the significant and unpredictable nature of the coming storm, canceling the show is imperative to keeping everyone out of harm’s way,” said Frank Hugelmeyer, NMMA President. “IBEX is the premier recreational boating trade event delivering critical business for our industry and as such this decision was not made lightly. Thank you for your continued commitment and support of the IBEX, NMMA, and RAI teams.”
Their website read “Based on the weather reports from NOAA and consultation with the City of Tampa, Tampa Convention Center and other stakeholders, the imminent arrival and uncertain nature of the storm forces us to cancel IBEX 2022. From Governor DeSantis’ recent press conference, it is clear that it is neither safe nor advisable to ask our exhibitors, staff and visitors to travel to, or be in, Tampa, FL this week. Thank you for your patience and understanding as we share this difficult decision”
Marine Business News sends it best wishes to Anne at IBEX, her team and all exhibitors and stakeholders involved during this difficult time.
Show information and updates can be found at ibexshow.com.
