WASHINGTON, DC — One of the last major tourism industry events to cancel, IPW will not be going ahead this year due to the coronavirus pandemic.

IPW General Manager, Malcom Smith, issued a letter to delegates saying that this year’s event, originally set to take place May 30 – June 3 in Las Vegas, would have been “impossible to execute” given social distancing requirements, not to mention that travel almost around the world has all but ground to a halt.

“Following a thorough decision-making process whereby we explored every viable option to proceed this year, IPW 2020 is cancelled,” said Smith.

“We are saddened that circumstances of the coronavirus pandemic including global travel restrictions, flight reductions, mandated social distancing and stay-at-home orders both in the U.S. and abroad have made this year’s event impossible to execute.”

He added that “while the challenges of this moment are obviously being felt in every corner of the world, it’s clear the travel community is being especially hard-hit. It is deeply unfortunate that this year’s IPW will not provide us the opportunity to gather and forge a path forward together.”

Information about the process for credits and refunds for the 2020 event, as well as additional information on IPW 2021, will be coming next week.

He finishes by saying: “Until we are able to convene again face-to-face at IPW, we are exploring ways to keep our industry connected and engaged. I invite you to visit ipw.com for further updates. And everyone please be safe.”