The decision was prompted by the move by Ligna – the world’s largest woodworking machinery exhibition in Germany – to postpone its May show until this September, clashing with the W Exhibition’s original dates.
“When Ligna announced that it would be postponing its May event to September, and in fact directly clashing with The W Exhibition, we immediately entered a consultation process with each of our stakeholders to develop a new timeline that would preserve the success of the show both now and in the future,” said W Exhibition managing director Nickie West.
“The new Winter 2022 timeline will allow us to do this.”
Following its February 2022 outing, The W Exhibition will return to the NEC in September 2023 before continuing to follow a biennial frequency, after Ligna, thereafter.
The postponement of the UK’s flagship event for the furniture manufacturing and joinery industries follows a period of unprecedented uncertainty due to the ongoing global impact of COVID-19.
“After an extended period of restricted face-to-face business, we hope that the entire industry will share in our enthusiasm at getting back to doing what we do best,” said Ms West.
“The W Exhibition & Elements is the UK’s flagship event for the joinery and furniture making industry and we are excited to showcase all of the latest products and machinery when we return in February 2022.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank each and every one of our stakeholders for being so supportive and understanding. From our exhibitors and visitors through to the WMSA and our industry press – we really do appreciate your support and patience.”
The show brings together some of the world’s leading suppliers of woodworking machinery, materials and tooling.