The company that hosts the annual Macworld expo said that it's "disappointed" in Apple's decision to withdraw from the show starting in 2010, but vowed to continue operating the conference.

"We are obviously disappointed in Apple's decision not to participate in Macworld 2010," expo host IDG said in a statement. Still, the company added, "We look forward to many more successful years of Macworld to come."

IDG said it's expecting strong attendance at the January show at San Francisco's Moscone Center, which will mark Apple's last appearance, and that more than 500 exhibitors have booked space. "Future events will continue to provide quality education, dynamic product viewing and will additionally focus on the amazing ways people are putting Apple products to work across all endeavors," IDG said.

Apple stunned the tech world on Tuesday with its announcement that it's pulling out of Macworld after the January 2009 show. The company stirred further speculation when it added that CEO Steve Jobs would not deliver his traditional keynote next month. Over the years, Jobs has used the platform to introduce a number of groundbreaking products, including the iPhone.

Apple said senior marketing VP Philip Schiller will deliver the Macworld 2009 keynote. The news revived speculation about Jobs' health, which has come under scrutiny given his at times gaunt appearance. Apple said it merely wants to use new venues to reach potential customers.

"Apple is reaching more people in more ways than ever before, so like many companies, trade shows have become a very minor part of how Apple reaches its customers," the company said in a statement.

Apple noted that it has been scaling back its appearances at other trade shows, including NAB, Macworld New York, and Apple Expo Paris, in recent years.