boot Düsseldorf announces new entry protocols as Europe’s covid cases surge

boot Düsseldorf 2022 will only allow people who are vaccinated against covid or recovered from the virus into its halls, organisers have confirmed.

The rules are being applied in accordance with the latest local covid protection measures in the fair’s home state of North Rhine-Westphalia. Covid is surging across Europe, with the WHO this week saying it is “very worried” about the spread.

Under the amended protocols, only vaccinated or recovered people will be allowed to enter the boot halls during the fair. The status of all visitors will be checked at the entrances to the fairground. Children up to 15 years are not affected by the measures in the North Rhine-Westphalian regulation.

The BBC reports German health minister Jens Spahn describing the situation as a “national emergency”. Spahn is refusing to rule out another national lockdown.

The annual trade fair boot Düsseldorf returns from 20-30 January 2022, following its cancellation in 2021 due to covid restrictions. Despite the uncertain outlook, show organiser Messe Düsseldorf has reaffirmed that “all signs are pointing to a safe staging of boot 2022”.

Trade fair participants from overseas are allowed to enter Germany. Official information on the special regulations is available here.

“We are very well prepared and can consistently implement all the [safety] requirements,” says Messe Düsseldorf CEO Wolfram Diener. “For manufacturers, retailers and destinations, participation in boot 2022 will be the marketplace for contacts and presentations as well as the season opener for their industry.”

Organisers have recently confirmed the next annual International Breakfast Meeting (IBM) will be held in person at boot on 25 January, after being held virtually in 2021.

Tickets for boot Düsseldorf 2022 can now be ordered online.