Next year’s biennial Brisbane Truck Show has lost one of its major exhibitors – Volvo Group Australia announcing that it’s out.
Its withdrawal, which takes out Volvo, Mack and UD Trucks from the show’s usually comprehensive lineup of truckmakers involved in the Australian market, is due to COVID-19, it says.
In a statement VGA says that “the current climate of uncertainty regarding travelling across state borders – and the possible rapid implementation of social restrictions – has created a challenging environment for all businesses to operate within.
“This uncertainty, coupled with the associated risks, has affected events and exhibitions all around the world.
“These events require considerable resources and forward visibility to plan and execute. The recurring impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our society continues to affect planned events and travel.” 
As a result, VGA has “reluctantly” made the decision not to take part in next year’s show. 
The company says that it is “totally committed to supporting the Australian economy and the road transport industry,” and adds: “We look forward to a time where we can showcase the best transport solutions and products our group has to offer – safely, and in person.
“In the meantime, we will continue to keep Australia moving.”
Todd Hacking, chief executive of the HVIA, the industry group that organises the Brisbane show, says: “Naturally it is disappointing when one of our major exhibitors has to pull out of a show.
“However, it has happened before and we understand that COVID has impacted manufacturers to varying degrees. However, the show will go on.
“In fact, the show floor is like a bucket of water – you pull out and the spot is instantly filled, as it is in this instance. That’s how much demand there is for space – and the 2021 show is a sellout.
“We know how much our industry and its customers are looking forward to getting together in Brisbane in May 2021 and most see it as the opportunity to reconnect and kickstart the industry.
“For us it’s full steam ahead and we have exciting announcements about the show in the months ahead.”