NEW YORK — The novel coronavirus heavily impacting the Big Apple has just put the kibbosh on an in-person option for the TVB‘s annual fall gathering of television industry cognoscenti.
The Forward conference staged by the television industry’s sales advocacy group is being replaced by a fully digital “Alt”-ernative.
Because of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the Television Bureau of Advertising (TVB) on Thursday moved forward with its plans to conduct the 100% virtual (Alt) Forward 2020, billed as “an adaptation” of its annual Forward Conference.
Those participating online can expect what the TVB calls “a multi-dimensional, virtual experience” set for October 1.
Because of the breadth and scope of the novel coronavirus’ impact on the New York Tri-State Area, holding the event at Pier Sixty of Chelsea Piers on Manhattan’s West Side was most certainly a most concerning endeavor.
By comparison, the 2020 Radio Show, staged by the NAB and RAB, remains on track for Sept. 13-16 in Nashville, where it was staged in fall 2016.
“TVB is taking a decisive step to go virtual this year to safely provide the first-class content our audience expects from the Forward Conference,” TVB President/CEO Steve Lanzano said.
He adds that the (Alt) Forward 2020 name reflects “an alternate approach to delivering top-notch programming for our members and partners, and driving value for our sponsors.”
(Alt) Forward 2020 will take a c-suite look at local broadcast TV through the lens of revenue generation, he promises.
“Media executives, broadcast groups, rep firms, agencies and marketers will explore economic, political, technological and viewer challenges and opportunities for local broadcast TV, across all screens, with the industry’s top thought leaders,” event literature states.
(Alt) Forward 2020 programming, including keynotes, expert panels and sponsor interactions is forthcoming.
