NADA 2022: The show (and masks) must go on

National Automotive Dealers Association (NADA) CEO Mike Stanton said earlier this week that NADA will still be holding its annual expo in Las Vegas, Nevada from March 10 to March 13 despite the rising numbers of COVID-19 infections throughout the country. This will be the first in-person show since 2020, as last year’s show was scheduled to be held in New Orleans but was converted to a virtual event that still offered the main expo as well as expert speakers and various workshops.  

Stanton told Automotive News that NADA is “so excited to be back in person” and that NADA is “hearing and sensing the pent-up demand.” He also shot down rumors that NADA currently has plans to change processes of in-person communication, but noted that adjustments will be made if needed and that NADA is “keeping a close eye” on COVID-19 and evaluating the situation on a “day-by-day basis.” He further indicated NADA’s priority is to ensure the safety of everyone in attendance. 

Safety Measures at the Expo

While NADA is still planning on holding the event, it has released various safety measures that participants and visitors must follow. Clark County and the State of Nevada as a whole are requiring that all individuals indoors wear face masks even if they are vaccinated. NADA said it will “comply with any federal, local, and/or state mandates in effect at the time of the event,” but currently anyone in attendance will not have to show proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test. Testing will, however, be available on-site.

NADA’s website also outlines several safety measures it will be implementing at this year’s show, which include plexiglass safety shields at registration desks and other information tables. NADA will be giving attendees disposable face masks upon registration/check-in, as well as making masks available at all entrances. There will also be hand-sanitizing stations scattered throughout the Expo along with tissues and sanitizing wipes.

As mentioned, COVID-19 testing will be available to anyone present on-site, and medical personnel will also be available if needed. NADA also encourages participants and visitors to utilize the Nevada Department of Health and Human Services COVID-19 Tracing app before attending, which is available for download on Android and Apple devices. 

NADA further indicated the Las Vegas Convention Center has received STAR certification from the Global Biorisk Advisory Council, meaning it takes the highest levels of safety precautions including making sure the facility is deep cleaned before the Expo while placing an extra emphasis on shared items like door handles, chairs, and handrails. Restrooms are also sanitized every hour and all equipment is disinfected before and after every use.

NADA noted the Las Vegas Convention Center has also begun more frequent replacing of its MERV 14 air filters, which are the same filters used in hospitals and other medical facilities due to their high effectiveness. The center has also upgraded its HVAC systems to increase the efficiency of its air filtration. 

Future participants and visitors to are encouraged to continue checking NADA’s website for any changes to these safety measures.

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