The 2022 Lamma show has been postponed until next spring amid rising cases of Covid-19.

In a statement, the organisers said the show will be moved from 11-12 January to 4-5 May “in response to the evolving Covid-19 situation due to the Omicron variant”.

Robust health and safety plans had been in place to hold the event in January. But after speaking to many exhibitors and attendees, the organisers said they had taken the “challenging decision” to postpone the event.

See also: Agritechnica show cancelled as Covid restrictions bite

All plans for the 40th anniversary edition will be carried over to the spring, when the show will welcome more than 600 exhibitors and 40,000 attendees.

If everything goes to plan, they will gather at the NEC in Birmingham “to connect over the latest machinery, technology and equipment for the farming industry”.

Kate Walsh, Lamma event manager, said: “The past few years have been challenging for the farming community, and we had hoped Lamma in January would be a great way to start off the new year and spur momentum in the industry.

“However, after listening to you, and sharing your concerns about the Covid situation, we believe moving the show to the spring will provide the best opportunity for us to meet face to face and deliver on the objectives of both our exhibitors and visitors.” 

There will be no changes to the floorplan or show features because of the date change. Visitor registration will remain open and there is no need to register again if you have already done so.

Semex cancelled

In a separate move, the organisers of the Semex International Dairy Conference have announced the cancellation of the 2022 show, which had been due to take place in Glasgow from 9-11 January.

“Semex is deeply disappointed to announce the cancellation of our January conference,” tweeted the organisers.

“The safety of our speakers, delegates and staff are our main concern Whilst disheartened, we will be back in Glasgow in brighter times.”