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Articles from WATCHES (859 Articles), INDUSTRY ASSOCIATIONS (263 Articles)
Baselworld
Baselworld delivers big confidence boost
Posted March 30, 2010 |
The main message to come out of the world’s largest watch and jewellery show is that the industry has made a mighty recovery.
After closing on Thursday, Baselworld organisers were quick to announce the overwhelmingly positive signs from this year’s show.
Attendance was up 7 per cent compared to last year, with 100,000 buyers from 100 countries.
More importantly, many exhibitors reported renewed confidence after doing exceptional business.
“The buyers’ trust and confidence is back in all markets,” said Christoph Wellendorff, CEO, Wellendorff.
Co-President of Chopard, Karl-Friedrich Scheufele, recorded much stronger sales than last year.
“In comparison to last year, this year’s show went much better. We welcomed more customers … and received many more orders,” he said.
Bell & Ross spokesman Roberto Passariello agreed: “At this year’s Baselworld, we welcomed significantly more trade buyers and journalists,” he said.
Other positives included further signs the Swiss watch industry was on the rise.
Exports have increased for the first time in 15 months, including a 14.2 per cent jump in February alone.
According to a press release from Baselworld organisers, “these signs of recovery were confirmed at Baselworld”.
Another significant feature of the show was the return of American buyers, who had “practically deserted” Baselworld in 2009, according to organisers.
One negative identified at the show was the slower recovery of smaller, lesser-known brands.
“While brands benefiting from a strong name have skillfully overcome these difficult times, designers with small advertising budgets have had trouble making any impact,” the Baselworld press release stated, highlighting the importance of “getting oneself known, communicating and making contacts”.
While this year’s results did not reach the records attained in 2007 and 2008, Baselworld organisers were still optimistic.
“We are delighted with this year’s Baselworld. Without being euphoric, we can optimistically look ahead this year,” said Jacques J. Duchêne, President of the Exhibitors’ Committee.
François Thiébaud, President of the Swiss Exhibitors’ Committee, best summarized the general consensus of this year’s guests.
“Exhibitors and visitors can smile again,” he said.
The dates for next year’s show have already been announced; 24 to 31 March, 2011.
Did you attend Baselworld this year? What did you think?
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