3 minute read
Looking to adapt existing online platform Arqanaonline.com.
Subsequent to the official announcement that France will remain under strict lockdown until May 11, Arqana has confirmed that its Breeze Up sale will not take place on its original dates of May 8 - 9.
CEO Eric Hoyeau and Executive Director Freddy Powell, along with the entire bloodstock team, have been actively consulting with vendors in search for a new timeframe and logistical scenario aimed at maximising trade opportunities within the constraints that remain likely to be in place over the summer.
"Our endeavour is to offer the best possible working conditions for vendors and buyers despite the unprecedented level of uncertainty we are all confronted with," said Hoyeau.
"The early June slot (2-3 or 3-4) remains an option for our Breeze Up, however there is a risk that hotels and restaurants in Deauville might still be closed as well as travelling restrictions to and within Europe remaining in force. Therefore, and depending of how the situation pans out over the next few weeks in France and abroad, we are alternatively considering merging the Breeze Up with the Summer Sale, which would then expand from June 29 to July 4, or postponing it to a later date in July.
"Regardless of the date, we will offer online bidding solutions we are lucky that we already own an online sale platform, Arqanaonline.com, which we are adapting to the situation. We will also make as much information as possible available remotely to buyers.
"Looking ahead, the August Yearling Sale currently remains on track to take place on August 15-17, followed by the V2 Yearling Sale on August 18. However, we are very aware of the trying times all industry players are faced with and how fast things are evolving. Should it become necessary, we will adopt a very outside-the-box approach to come up with the best possible date and logistical organisation for our flagship sale. Once again, I would like to extend my deepest compassion and support to all those who are suffering personal or professional hardship. More than ever, we are all living in hope."
