The decision comes shortly after Showcase Jewellers revealed its own plan to run its buying days concurrent with the Fair. The largest buying group, Nationwide Jewellers, has always held its buying days at the Fair and will continue to do so in 2019.
Gary Fitz-Roy, managing director Expertise Events, praised Leading Edge for the decision, saying, “It doesn’t get more sensible and better than this. The industry groups have all acknowledge, but more importantly have acted, to make it easier for retailers and suppliers. As I recently said, this has been a long-term vision of ours to have a fully incorporated, united Fair and we have now achieved it. Everyone wins.”
This year’s IJWF will be held from 24–26 August at the ICC Darling Harbour in Sydney.
In addition to buying days, Leading Edge will hold educational sessions within the context of the Fair. Hannes Coetsee, jewellery category manager Leading Edge Group, explained that the decision had been made to meet members’ and suppliers’ needs. “We believe it is in our members’ best interest to support a greater offering in conjunction with the industry’s premier event, and to be across the time and dollar savings for all concerned.”
Fitz-Roy added, “Other industries should take note of how, when things are challenging, people with a real investment in the industry will always put the industry’s needs first.”
More reading:
Showcase adds buying days at Sydney Fair
Buying groups unite for 2019 Sydney Jewellery Fair