We mourn the passing of Queen Elizabeth II

As a UK-based publication, we are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Queen Elizabeth II and send our condolences to the Royal Family during this difficult time. Rest in Peace, Your Majesty. HM Queen Elizabeth II died today, aged 96, at her Scottish home Balmoral Castle. She was the oldest head of state. The passing of the UK’s longest-reigning monarch raises many questions of protocol and challenges that international exhibitors and organisers active in the UK at this time should be aware of, including how a period of national mourning in the UK may affect the business landscape. Major disruption to events is certain and exhibition organisers need to be prepared. UK government guidance for events during National Mourning can be found here Major UK venues have said they would work with organisers on contingency plans. Some organisers may be contractually protected if their force majeure clauses list the death of the monarch. Some organisers that rely on key dates for their income are thought to have taken national mourning insurance cover. There will also likely be questions of public taste as to whether certain events can go ahead – such as we saw after the death of Princess Diana where the West End went dark for a day to mirror public sentiment. Visitors are expected to flood into the capital to pay their respects and transport links could be closed on key dates.