Property computer event cancelled for second year

The Property Computer Show – now known as Agency Expo – has been cancelled for the second year running. That means it will not take place in 2010 although the organisers insist that it will happen in 2011 after a two year 'holiday' created by the on-going recession.

They say that their decision to cancel again has been taken after research indicating that the industry will invest first in people, as it recovers, before technology.

Event Director Henri Cash said: “It is evident that the industry – both suppliers and agents – very much see the need for a London-based, industry event and look forward to Agency Expo’s return.  However, with the growing concern about job security and more rigorous credit assessments, set alongside uncertainties surrounding the Stamp Duty holiday, the rise in personal taxation and the forthcoming general election, the attention of agencies was clearly focused on their main objectives, first investing in people as business permits.

“When the ‘event holiday’ was first announced in February 2009, the feeling was that this would help suppliers divert budget to the areas more in need.  It is our view that this remains the case for the next 12 months.  We believe that in 2011 the market will begin to improve considerably as the foundation for widespread business resurgence becomes more embedded and the direction of government policies becomes more certain.  In turn agents and their suppliers will at last be able to benefit from real confidence, increased spending and new technology developments.”

Both the date and venue for London’s 2011 Agency Expo will be announced next year, said Cash.