COMDEX, the trade show that was once the focus of the global technology calendar has been cancelled for 2004, although the exhibitors have promised a return for the event in 2005 after reshaping “with the cooperation of information (IT) industry leaders”. Does this represent the end for all technology trade shows? Probably not. In fact the IT industry has seen smaller specialised trade shows increasing in importance: a trend that has also been reflected in the European electronics industry. Despite this disappointing news for the tech show industry, Electronica 2004 looks like being yet another big success, with strong exhibitor support.