Back in action

The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic last year shutdown Las Vegas casinos as well as major events in the city, including the Global Gaming Expo. After taking a break in 2020, the gambling industry trade show has announced it is back in action for 2021. Organizers announced this week that the in-person show will be back this October.

The Expo made an announcement on Twitter regarding the return:

Reed Exhibitions and the American Gaming Association (AGA) plan to produce the upcoming show. Known as G2E, the Expo is an annual event for gaming industry professionals to gather together in one place to experience and learn more about the newest products and services.

COVID-19 situation has greatly improved

The next G2E event will take place from October 4-7 at the Sands Expo and Convention Center. The show will include educational opportunities for attendees to learn more from experts in various sectors of the industry. It will include panels and presentations, with the speaker schedule still in the works.

Currently, there are no social distancing restrictions or capacity limits for large gatherings in Las Vegas. Organizers of G2E decided to host the in-person show in 2021 because federal health and safety guidelines have been relaxed. Clark County mitigation efforts also played a role in the decision to host a live event once again.

being able to gather together again will be another great milestone in our strong recovery”

AGA vice president of global events Meredith Pallante, stated that the organization cannot wait to bring the industry back together for G2E 2021, saying: “The industry has shown tremendous resilience throughout the pandemic and being able to gather together again will be another great milestone in our strong recovery.”

Organizers plan to enhance and update safety and health guidelines for G2E as any changes arise on a local, state, or federal level.

Canceling G2E 2020 and moving online

Last year, organizers decided to cancel the live G2E because of health risks surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic. Add in the uncertainty of global travel restrictions and officials made the decision to wait until 2021 to host the event in person.

At the time of the cancellation, organizers stated that they would provide virtual events to make up for the lack of an in-person convention. They came up with a series of options in October 2020, providing a virtual platform for presentations and product showcases.