Derby delegation presses for MIPIM postponement as coronavirus crisis mounts

The Derby and Derbyshire delegation which is due to attend a major international property show next month are calling for the event to be rescheduled due to coronavirus.

Tens of thousands of people from across the world are due to attend the MIPIM international property investment show in Cannes, France, from March 10 to 13.

Among them will be several representatives from Derby and Derbyshire, who will be at the event under the Midlands UK banner.

But due to the spread of coronavirus, some companies have announced their withdrawal from the event.

Major firms that have so far pulled out include Cushman and Wakefield, which is Derby City Council’s strategic property partner.

Mipim attracts tens of thousands of visitors to Cannes each year (© L. TINTIGNIES - Image & Co)

At this year’s MIPIM, a combination of public and private sector partners are expected to join members of inward investment agency Marketing Derby as part of a joint city and county delegation.

However, John Forkin, managing director of Marketing Derby, has confirmed that Team Derby and Derbyshire was reviewing its position.

He said: “MIPIM is an important part of our strategy to raise the profile of Derby and Derbyshire and has been successful in attracting inward investment.

John Forkin, managing director of Marketing Derby (Derby Telegraph)

“The spread of coronavirus is leading to a review of our position for 2020 and we are pressing urgently for MIPIM to be postponed until the autumn.

“At the same time, we are consulting with partners and will take a decision early next week which will be based on an assessment of risk and duty of care.”

Event organisers Reed Mipim has already issued a series of measures for its 27,000 attendees in response to growing fears over a potential global pandemic.

They said they were “monitoring the situation very closely and following local and national travel and health guidelines”.

They added they would be introducing the following measures:

*Ramping up advice about stopping the spread of germs among delegates.

*Working with airports, hotels and the city of local authorities in Cannes to monitor the situation and spread health and safety messages.

*Reinforcing the on-site medical team at the Palais des Festivals venue.

*Stepping up levels of hygiene and cleanliness within the venue.

*Providing help to exhibitors who want to put in extra measures to stop germs spreading.

*Providing regular updates to delegates.