How Covid-19 is affecting the events industry


20th of May, 2020

Covid-19 is affecting every person around the world in some way or another. Industries likewise are feeling the effects of the virus. The events industry worldwide has been affected intensely which led many to either find themselves out of pocket or out of a job.

This year, I expected to organize more than 60 events, from weddings to corporate events and activations. As more cases of coronavirus are confirmed globally, The Posh Group Co. feels the crease caused by the outbreak as our clients are “pulling the plug” on contracts and the problem is that they are not giving us solid postponement dates. My personal prediction is that my business will make 50% less of what is expected to do, if not less this year.

Unfortunately, in Jordan, the events industry has not been considered by the government even though this industry makes up a substantial proportion of Jordan’s economy and it may eventually find itself in a downwards spiral due to a decrease in the number of promoters, ushers, event managers, technicians and creatives.

Even though the situation may only be temporary and things might prevail in the coming few months, measurements must be taken right now as the domino effect of the government closing down events trickles down to loss for businesses; the situation must be stabilized to minimize losses. 

So, What Can be Done?

Several event management companies and suppliers created a group on WhatsApp to discuss the situation and thus find a solution. Yet, unfortunately, nothing can be done to change the situation at the moment as several companies are heading to virtual events, meetings and training sessions.

The situation is worrisome! Numerous wedding or event industry professional’s phones barely ring – who am I kidding, phones only ring for event cancellations – email inboxes are empty and Instagram became a form of anxiety none of us were ready for. This condition is causing numerous business owners to shift their businesses or think out-of-the-box ideas that may earn revenue.

The Posh Group Co. is braced for four to six more weeks of cancellations. We hope event get back on track over the course of summer.

 

Dima Kakish

Founder & CEO – The Posh Group Co.