IIJS Closes Early, Power Outage, Heavy Rains Create Havoc
July 17, 05
Organizers of
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Unlike last year, the visitor entrance fee this year was high, perhaps the reason that traffic was not as busy as last year. While that did not prevent long lines at the entrance, smaller exhibitors felt that the fee, $100 for international visitors and $75 for local firms, prevented many potential buyers from visiting and harmed their efforts.
On the other hand, Sightholders and other big companies were happy with the high entrance fee, saying it filtered the crowd, allowing in only serious buyers as exhibitors were mostly promoting their local brands.
But the high entrance fee turned out to be the least of the issues. The air conditioning did not work during the first two days of the show, and organizers only managed to bring in large fans on Saturday. But while they eased conditions they blew too hard creating new problems.
On Thursday a power outage happened at around 4 pm.
After a relatively busy Friday and Saturday, exhibitors were looking forward to Sunday being the busiest day of the show.
Air conditioning was turned on this morning, together with the fans, but heavy morning rains created a dangerous situation. Exposed power lines lining the exhibit halls started getting wet leading organizers to cut off the power, announcing over the PA system that it was done for safety reasons and to start repair works.
Angry exhibitors had a loaded exchange with organizers, who later announced that the exhibition will close early today at 2:30 pm local time. It’s still unknown if the show will open tomorrow.
Most embarrassing is Hall 5, the international hall. Exhibitors from around the world found themselves flooded and it was the first to close down amid scenes of havoc. Currently, at least two halls are flooded and already closed, and fire engines are lined up outside. Some exhibitors are evacuating their goods.
Weather reports do not predict better weather for tomorrow.
(Updated 4:24 am)