PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — A textile convention in Portland is being rescheduled due to coronavirus concerns.
The Materials Show, which helps connect textile suppliers with clothing and shoe companies, was set for February 12 and 13 at the Oregon Convention Center. Organizers said they were forced to postpone next week’s show because of coronavirus fears since so many of the suppliers are based in China.
The convention’s producer — Beaverton-based American Events Inc. — said in a statement: “We are committed to the safety of our clients and partners. We apologize for any inconvenience and will share updates once we are able to reschedule these events.”
Organizers said many of their colleagues and friends have been directly affected by the coronavirus. That virus has mostly affected China, where more than 20,000 people have contracted the virus — and 500 people have died.
Here in the U.S., a little under a dozen have the virus. Cases have been reported as close as Washington and California.
The Materials Show was supposed to open on Wednesday in Boston but that show has also been postponed.
Another textile trade show that was supposed to run in partnership with the Materials Show is still scheduled to be held on Feb. 12 and 13 at the Oregon Convention Center. The event producer for Premiere Vision Sports said they will have 65 exhibitors and expect up to 1,000 visitors.
