On November 3, 2021, the Drug, Chemical & Associated Technologies Association (DCAT) announced preliminary plans for its flagship event, DCAT Week, including confirmation that the event will take place in person in New York City from March 21-24, 2022. The event has not been held in person since March 2019, as the 2020 event was abruptly cancelled due to spread of the COVID-19 virus and DCAT Week 2021 was held virtually.

Recently, DCAT Executive Director Margaret Timony offered insight into what the organization has in store for next year’s event. She confirmed DCAT Week staples such as the DCAT Women’s Networking Breakfast and Pharma Industry Outlook will be returning to the lineup of education programming that is offered by the organization, along with events such as the Member Company Announcement Forum and Member Company Networking Reception.

When asked about the importance of holding DCAT Week in person, Ms. Timony stated, “For our Member Companies, DCAT Week is a critical component for their business. Although we’ve proven that digital meetings work and have done so for years, there is no substitution for an opportunity to meet in person.” She added, “Every day, we hear from Member Companies who are anxious to return and have advised us that they are beginning to fill their meeting schedules.”

While in-person conferences may look a little different than they did in 2019, DCAT is hopeful that the “new normal” will not affect the operations of DCAT Week. In regards to COVID-19 protocols that will be put in place, Ms. Timony said, “The event will be structured and conducted under the guidance and recommendations issued by the CDC and the public health authorities of the City of New York.“ She also added that requirements for attendees will include proof of vaccination.

Also returning in 2022 is the renowned DCAT Annual Dinner, an industry tradition since 1924 and the official conclusion of DCAT Week. Ms. Timony confirmed that final plans are in the works and the membership can expect announcements beginning in December 2021. The DCAT Annual Dinner will take place on Thursday, March 24, 2022, at the New York Hilton Midtown. As for who the dinner speaker will be? Well, we all will have to wait and see…

About DCAT Week

DCAT Week is a multifaceted event where DCAT Member Companies have the opportunity to reserve meeting space through the DCAT organization to conduct high-level, private, strategic meetings with customers and suppliers. During the week, DCAT offers its members the chance to participate in unique and timely education sessions developed by their colleagues who serve on DCAT’s volunteer committees and task forces. Additionally, members can attend various networking events, access member lounges, and take advantage of other opportunities designed to promote interaction between industry colleagues. For more information, visit www.dcatweek.org.