SAP drops European show, confirms U.S. event

IDG News Service - In response to customer feedback, SAP AG has decided to drop its European Sapphire user conference and exhibition, opting instead for a string of local forums, said SAP spokeswoman Laurie Doyle Kelly.
Earlier this year, SAP said it would hold its European Sapphire conference in odd-numbered years and local forums in even-numbered years.
"European users have told us they prefer local events held in their language and focused on their specific needs," Doyle Kelly said. "We agree this is a more effective way to communicate with them."
The local forums won't be called Sapphire, she said.
The U.S. Sapphire will serve as the annual global user conference, according to the spokeswoman. SAP customers worldwide are welcome to attend the U.S. event if they wish, she said. It's scheduled to take place in May in New Orleans.
SAP will continue to hold a Sapphire event in Japan, according to Doyle Kelly. "The Japanese Sapphire, however, will be much like the regional shows," Doyle Kelly said. "It will be held in Japanese and focused on the needs of Japanese users."