LAS VEGAS — In what could be an industry-leading move, the Consumer Technology Association (CTA) has announced that it will require proof of vaccination for exhibitors and attendees who wish to attend CES 2022. More than 1,000 tech companies, from startups to major brands, are expected to be in Las Vegas for the show, which runs from January 5-8. Just like in 2021, the show will feature a digital event alongside the in-person event.
“Based on current scientific knowledge, we understand that vaccines offer our best hope of stopping the spread of COVID-19,” said Gary Shapiro, CTA President and CEO. “We all have a role to play in ending the pandemic by encouraging vaccination and implementing appropriate safety protocols.”
Related. CES 2021 Makes History as Largest Digital Tech Event
In a letter posted on the CES website, Shapiro commented on the move: “Many are clamoring for a return to the serendipity and relationship-building of in-person events – so are we. CES is where business gets done. It’s an economic engine for our industry and an opportunity for companies around the world, large and small, to launch products, build brands and form partnerships. Technology has also evolved by leaps and bounds in the last year and a half – we need to come together and connect so we can maintain our momentum and continue to inspire innovative solutions for a rapidly changing world.”
“We know that our decision to require vaccination may not be popular with some, but for many others it will give them the confidence to know that they can once again enjoy CES and resume business as usual.”
Related. CES Returns Live to Las Vegas in January 2022
Show organizers are also considering proof of a positive antibody test as a requirement and will share more details as they become available. Additionally, CES will follow state and local guidelines and recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Currently, masks are required in all indoor public spaces in Las Vegas.
A detailed list of safety protocols for the show can be found here.
NAB to also require vaccination
The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) also informed the NAB Show community on August 18 that it would also require all attendees to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination to attend the 2021 NAB Show. “We believe this is a positive step in reducing the spread of COVID-19 and will provide further details on implementation and other safety measures under consideration,” Chris Brown, NAB’s executive vice president of global connections and events, said in a letter to his constituents.
The NAB show, which runs Oct. 9-13 in Las Vegas, is one of the premier trade shows for the media, entertainment and technology industries. Brown said in the letter that the show continues to show strong signs of readiness to meet in person, including a steady number of attendee registrations and hundreds of new and returning exhibitors. Concerns about the Delta variant require a “comprehensive, data-driven plan that prioritizes safety and creates a productive environment at these events.”
Contact Gary Shapiro at (703) 907-7600 or gshapiro@cta.tech