Concerns over Coronavirus prompt the reinvention of Global Gaming Expo. By: David McKee
Well before the event, rumors were swirling as to whether 2020’s Global Gaming Expo, set for October 5, would be held. While trade shows in Las Vegas were expected to resume in the autumn, the persistence of Covid-19 threw that into question.
Given that large gatherings of people in Las Vegas were prohibited in midsummer, there was no certainty as to when that ban would be lifted, further casting a pall on G2E.
On July 8, the axe fell, with American Gaming Association President Bill Miller announcing that G2E
would not be held as usual, but would be replaced with a series of virtual events. “In light of continued uncertainty around a viable marketplace at a physical G2E show, global travel restrictions, and currently unknown guidance on large public gatherings this fall, we have come to the unfortunate conclusion that we simply cannot hold an in-person G2E this year,” he wrote, adding, “Health and safety have always been our top priority and the uncertainty created by the ongoing pandemic makes this the prudent decision ahead of critical deadlines for exhibitors planning to participate.” One uncertainty Miller could have mentioned is that Las Vegas is currently closed to international travel, potentially taking the “global” out of Global Gaming Expo.
