LOS ANGELES — In response to escalating concerns over coronavirus and new travel restrictions, XBIZ is taking its unrivaled adult retail event online, with a boundless virtual experience set for August 24 to 28.
“After careful consideration of various indicators regarding the development of the worldwide COVID-19 health crisis, we have determined the most responsible decision is to pivot to a virtual format for our summer and fall Retail Retreat events, with the goal of creating fresh opportunities made possible via internet technology,” said XBIZ Events Director Moe Helmy.
Renowned for its unparalleled mix of business and pleasure, the XBIZ Retreat — originally scheduled for early June in Miami — was postponed back in April, as event organizers watched day-to-day developments in the trajectory of the pandemic and various official responses, including continued “stay-at-home” directives from state authorities and the Centers for Disease Control. With the recent reports of COVID-19 cases spiking up, it became clear organizers would be unable to safely host traditional on-location events.
The virtual version of the XBIZ Retreat, presented by Satisfyer, will creatively highlight participants while enabling the lasting, deep business connections that the event is recognized for.
“One of the main advantages of the virtual format is that it allows for greater participation from people that haven’t been able to travel to XBIZ Retreat destinations before,” explained XBIZ Associate Publisher Sara Ramirez. “We will still hold the familiar curated one-on-one meetings with leading vendors and retail buyers, and we will provide the platform for these meetings, with state-of-the-art privacy standards, in a virtual setting.”
Organizers plan to also include some of the fun elements that have become a signature feature for XBIZ Retreat events.
“While we can’t have our cocktail hours, or beach events, we plan to introduce all-new social elements to develop meaningful connections,” she said.
Since the beginning of the pandemic, XBIZ has successfully hosted several virtual events, including “Town Hall”-style online gatherings, which have been widely praised by participants, spectators and the community at large.
“With over 15 years of experience hosting events, we welcome this challenge of delivering our highest standards of quality, commitment and passion for this unprecedented era of virtual communication,” Helmy added.
For more information, visit XBIZRetreat.com.
