GIA London was again present at IJL 2008, this year with a significant growth in visibility achieved by offering free seminars, gemmology workshops and podcast challenges, as well as eight staff contributing to GIAs presence on the booth.
Overall, business was challenging but buoyant. Feedback from exhibitors was mixed but many exhibitors and visitors alike reported consistently positive responses to the Show which featured a sparkling new look.Contrary to current gloomy reports about the economics of UK and US retail, exhibitors enjoyed the presence of serious quality retail buyers who were clearly intent doing business.
Visitors enjoyed the creative presentation of the largest ever collection of both UK and International exhibitors from over 30 countries.
Commenting on business activity at the Show, Syreeta Tranfield, Exhibition Manager, stated 2008 has been an excellent year for IJL. The Show has been a real success and the overall feeling from exhibitors is that it has been extremely productive. Despite being slightly lower on visitor numbers (compared with 2007) by just 300 people, the feedback is that business was thriving at IJL. IJL 2008 proved that this event is the key place to network, source new product and enhance the success of any jewellery related business retailer or manufacturer.
GIA's Contribution - GIA London held daily Advanced Gemmology Classes for gem and jewellery professionals in a purpose built classroom.
"We received very positive and satisfied feedback from the 36 enrolments in our Advanced Gemmology Workshops," said GIA London Director Edward Johnson. "Many of the attendees hadn't realised how accessible, professional and beneficial GIA education is. We thank the IJL Team for working with GIA to provide this opportunity to develop skills in the UK trade."
The expanded Seminar program drew large audiences to presentations by Martin Rapaport among many others.
GIA London again contributed to IJLs popular program. Doug Kennedy spoke on Selling Diamonds through Product Knowledge, and Cigdem Lule-Whipp spoke about Selling Coloured Stones Through Product Knowledge. Both presentations were very well attended and received.
The Great Debate - hosted by IJL and the Birmingham Assay Office, and chaired by Digby, Lord Jones of Birmingham, Minister for Trade and Investment, considered the motion This house believes that the global jewellery industry will deliver an ethically responsible supply chain in line with consumer demand.
Michael Allchin, Chief Executive of The Birmingham Assay Office said, "The motion was carried which demonstrates encouraging optimism that the trade can overcome some of the obvious issues which it faces".
Dates for your diary for IJL 2009:
6th 9th September 2009
www.jewellerylondon.com
20th September 2008