HIGH POINT, N.C. - The High Point Market Authority has postponed the upcoming High Point Market show in April. It will now be held early June.

 

"The HPMA has been closely monitoring the ongoing and rapidly-evolving COVID-19 situation, staying in constant contact with local and state public health officials and elected officials. Heeding the public guidance offered by NC Governor Roy Cooper, and in the interest of the health and safety of our stakeholders, industry members, and local citizens, the High Point Market Authority has decided to postpone this year’s spring market, scheduled for April 25-29, until a later date in early June, should conditions improve."

 

"The decision was difficult, as any change in date could have tremendous economic repercussions on our industry and community, as well as the countless small businesses whose livelihoods relies on High Point Market, but underscores our shared concern and well-being of the citizens in our community and our industry partners," said Dudley Moore, Jr., chairman of the High Point Market Authority’s board of directors and president of Otto & Moore.

 

The biannual show (held twice a year - both in the fall and spring) has been held since 1909. Around 75,000 are usually in attendance, with many of those being international. The annual economic impact of the shows is estimated to be around $6.73 billion.

 

Cancellation has only occurred one time in history, that being the 1942 markets during World War II. 2020 marks the first official postponement.

 

“Our board of directors will continue to monitor the situation, and we will remain in communication with the proper medical and elected officials,” commented Tom Conley, president and CEO of the High Point Market Authority. “Our aim is to have a decision in early May as to if Market can occur, given the uncertainties of this rapidly evolving situation.”

 

For the time being, online registration will be postponed, with the plan to reopen once the new plan has been put in place.