“FLIBS 2020 confirmed: Live boat show will go ahead”

The following article comes from Laura Nicholls of SuperYacht Times on September 11, 2020. It has been shared with Newsdesk permission.

The 2020 edition of the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS) was given the approval to go ahead during the final decision meeting yesterday. Show organisers, Informa, were waiting on the results of the discussion between government officials from Broward County and the City of Fort Lauderdale who were analysing the event’s plans to ensure a safe show amid the coronavirus pandemic.

Between 28 October and 1 November 2020, the FLIBS will span across 90 acres of outdoor areas and could potentially inject over $1 billion into the local economy. The show will run in accordance with Informa Markets’  AllSecure health and safety standards to ensure the safety of all attendees, exhibitors, crew members and staff.

Mayor of Fort Lauderdale, Dean Trantalis, who worked alongside County Administrator Betha Henry to approve the show commented: “I am extremely pleased that the County Commission gave clear direction today that the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show can take place as planned next month. It is vital that we get our economy back on track. The upcoming Boat Show is critical to accomplishing that because the show has a major positive economic impact on Fort Lauderdale by supporting local businesses and their employees. Public health will be protected. Fort Lauderdale has been a leader in addressing the COVID-19 pandemic, and we have worked with the Boat Show to put together a solid plan to ensure it will be held with the utmost safety.”  

MIASF CEO/president, Phil Purcell, explains, “FLIBS is an opportunity to jumpstart the local and state economy through direct sales, as well as hotel stays, transportation, dining, and recreation. Our land-based businesses benefit from the show just as much as our marine businesses. We are pleased our local officials continue to recognise the importance of this event and have given us their full support to move forward.”  

The sentiment was echoed by Andrew Doole, President of Informa U.S. Boat Shows, who adds, “We have worked diligently to develop a plan so that every person who attends the show can do so with confidence.”