While Governor Abbott lifted the mask mandate and opened Texas business occupancy capacity to 100 percent on March 2, the Dallas Market Center (DMC) has updated its health and safety protocols in time for its March events – Apparel & Accessories Market, Total Home & Gift Market, Lightovation, and KidsWorld – all taking place March 23 to 26.
Mandatory face coverings and a temperature check for everyone entering the marketplace will continue on the Dallas Market Center campus; however, capacity will be expanded to 100 percent and concierge COVID-19 testing will be available on-site. The updated Plan Ahead, Safely guidelines are available via the front page of the Dallas Market Center website (www.dallasmarketcenter.com).
“At this time, we think it’s critically important to maintain what’s working so well in Dallas and that means continuing our support for the care and comfort of all customers, many of whom are traveling from out of state or are choosing to do business here for the first time,” says Cindy Morris, President & CEO. “As local case counts steeply decline, we are remaining vigilant and exceeding the recommendations and mandates from national and local health officials. Our efforts and experience have created the safest possible environment among all market centers and trade events.”
The announcement by DMC follows a sharp and sustained decline in local COVID-19 cases, which for Dallas County are at their lowest level since October 2020. At the same time, vaccinations statewide continue to expand and are on track to reach 1 million per week.
In addition to expanded capacity for visitors, optional on-site testing for COVID-19 will be available for a fee via Kai Medical Laboratory. The testing is a PCR test with results in 24 hours, the type of test most often required for travelers. The testing location is on the first of the World Trade Center.
Showrooms will communicate their own procedures for social distancing and hospitality. Gatherings including special events and receptions will not take place. Instead, socially distanced hospitality will include roving carts and grab-and-go happy hours. There will be multiple food service outlets open every day at market with seated dining as well as take-away options.
Special travel deals are still available for the upcoming shows. To make plans, visit the DMC website and download the Dallas Market Center app. Information will also be updated on DMC’s social media, such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and the DMC Blog.
