Industry supports shift of JCK events to Mandalay Bay

The shift of venue for JCK events in 2011 to Mandalay Bay has been continuously receiving support from category-leading exhibitors, retailers, industry associations and influencers. The number of participants is also on the rise. Exhibitor sign-ups have doubled since the announcement three weeks ago, and includes key groups such as LUXURY, Plumb Club, Prestige Promenade and Vicenza Oro Italian pavilion along with key category leaders such as Sasha Primak, Cassis, Julius Klein, Lazare Kaplan, Christian Tse Corp., ESQ Swiss, Casio, Super Bell Jewelry, AV Diamonds, Stuller, Kassoy; founding Swiss Watch exhibitors such as Baume and Mercier; Bulgari, Bell & Ross, Gucci, Swatch Group and Tag Heuer.

Industry association support includes: American Gem Trade Association (AGTA); American Gem Society (AGS); Diamond Council of America (DCA); Gemological Institute of America (GIA), Hong Kong Jewelry Manufacturers Association (HKJMA); Natural Color Diamond Association (NCDIA); Platinum Guild International (PGI); World Gold Council and industry influencers such as Jewelers Board of Trade (JBT). "The jewellery industry has provided early and positive support for the move," said Dave Bonaparte, Group Vice President for JCK Events. "From the industry's dialog on the subject, as well as our in-person and phone conversations, we are confident that JCK Las Vegas 2010 and 2011 will deliver dynamic change without sacrificing the fundamental elements that retailers have come to expect."

JCK Events is working on taking ideas from retailers on the optimum floor plan for ease of navigation and efficient buying, and planning special event programming and educational sessions. The JCK Events team will be conducting a 'listening tour' of retailers to better assess their buying needs and preferences for 'shopping' the show.