One of the strengths of our industry is its sense of community, the willingness of the people within it to work together and find solutions. Both here and across the ditch, we have strong associations with engaged memberships, and we have strong buying groups. We also have very active community groups across various social networks. So it makes sense, in a time of great upheaval, pandemic and financial uncertainty, that representatives from all these positions would come together to devise a way to help everyone in the industry thrive this selling season.
The Jewellery Industry Virtual Fair, announced in September, brings new opportunities to connect and trade to the industry. Going live, online from 20-21 October, the Virtual Fair will replicate a physical event allowing people to meet, network and do business in the same way as a physical fair – and with fewer limitations.
Announced after significant consultation with the industry, Laura Moore of Moore Events, and Brett Low and Ewen Ryley from Young Jewellers Group, invested and developed the capability to deliver a comprehensive easy-touse online event platform that helps exhibitors and buyers connect.
With associations onboard and positive support from key buying groups, organisers have quickly moved to make this a reality. The event will operate over two full days online, giving people from all over Australia and New Zealand the opportunity to attend from the comfort of their own homes or places of business.
The risks and expenses of travel for both exhibitors and guests are eliminated entirely and convenience is greatly enhanced guests will be able to view and connect with the companies they want to connect with without the hassle of trudging from one end of a convention centre to the other. And no one spends the entire fair on their feet!
But the JIVF will be much more than a simple digital showcase of products. A series of web seminars from industry experts from all over the world is scheduled and the platform will allow suppliers and guest to speak to each other ‘face to face’.
“We are very inspired by this new event,” he added. “It’s a fresh approach and no one else is thinking outside the box like this to support the industry.”
Charlie Davey – Leading Edge
A speed networking area app, where guests can be connected to businesses for a fun, fast and furious few minutes, will create opportunities for business and personal relationships to grow – meet brands, meet people, find out quickly what fits your business, what suits your model and make connections.
Carson Webb, managing director of Showcase Jewellers, says Showcase will be involved to support retailers and suppliers. “We will be offering advice as needed, benefits and resources of our business and those of our preferred suppliers.It will also be a platform where retailers can ask questions of our group and maybe better understand why our group structure is different and how it might be a perfect fit for any new jewellery retailer out there.”
“Difficult times have made us even more determined to work hard and help the industry any way we can,” said Laura Moore of Moore Events. “We saw a significant gap in the industry where suppliers and retailers have struggled to connect, and we wanted to change that.” With many big name brands and suppliers, as well as buying groups, already signed up, the event is looking to be a fantastic opportunity for retailers to restock for Christmas.
“I’m delighted and proud to support this event,” he added saying it was important for the industry to stay positive and “walk the talk of the glass half full attitude.”
Buying group Leading Edge Jewellery is just as keen to attend the virtual fair. “We see it as a chance to network with others in the industry and a chance to engage with independent retailers who may be wanting to know more about what Leading Edge Jewellery has to offer,” said Charlie Davey of Leading Edge.
“Our involvement is important to support the industry and those who are trying to make a difference. We will also be encouraging our members to come along too. Sadly, there’ll be no face to face cups of coffee, but virtual coffee looks as good!
“We are very inspired by this new event,” he added. “It’s a fresh approach and no one else is thinking outside the box like this to support the industry.”
Jo Tory of Najo, was equally enthusiastic about the event.“I am very excited about this virtual fair, and I think it will be a real turning point in the industry,” she said. “Congratulations on such a splendidly thought through and forward thinking event.”
Guests can register via the Virtual Fair’s website. Interested suppliers are also invited to register.
Register at www.jewelleryindustryfair.com