Trade show organiser Expertise Events has modified visitor access hours for the Australian Jewellery Fair (AJF) – which will be held in Melbourne next week – and the Sydney International Jewellery Fair (IJF) in August.
The recent change allows non-exhibiting jewellery suppliers to attend the event from 1:00pm each day. Traditionally, non-exhibiting suppliers were given access during the afternoon of the fair’s last day.
“We have always had set times for non-retail visitation and the latest move is to standardise this,” Expertise Events managing director Fitz-Roy explained. “Unlike overseas shows, which are largely trade shows for distributors, the Australian fair is primarily one for retailers. Given the size of our market and to provide extra value, we have introduced the new admission to find common ground that works for all.”
Fitz-Roy emphasised that non-exhibiting suppliers were forbidden to conduct business on the fair floor.
Educational features
In addition to modified access hours, Expertise Events has announced that a live demonstration by apprentice jeweller and WorldSkills Australia regional gold medallist Chloe Biddiscombe will form part of the AJF program.
During the live demonstration, Biddiscombe will discuss her journey as both an apprentice and a WorldSkills Australia competitor while completing two modules similar to those she will conduct at the WorldSkills Australia National Competition in October this year.
The AJF program will also feature a host of educational sessions, with topics including how retailers can maximise their Instagram and Facebook presence, the increasing risks surrounding undisclosed synthetic diamonds and the steps retailers can take to reduce them, best practices for increasing security and safety, and smartphone jewellery photography tips.
Fitz-Roy said the shift from the Gold Coast to Melbourne would offer a fresh take on the AJF. “We [Expertise Events] haven’t been in Melbourne for few years, so we are excited,” he said. “There is a real culture in the state [Victoria] that is different from others.”
The AJF will be held at the Royal Exhibition Building in Melbourne from 27 to 28 February.
The IJF will take place at the Sydney Exhibition Centre @ Glebe Island from 27 to 29 August.
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Changes abound for Australian jewellery fairs