The upcoming International Jewellery Fair (IJF) in Sydney will be headlined by a first-of-its-kind special event to advance unity in the Australian jewellery trade.
The ‘Bling It On’ event will be hosted during the IJF weekend in Sydney, scheduled for 23-25 August, and will be supported by Nationwide Jewellers, Showcase Jewellers, and the Independent Jewellers Collective.
Traditionally, each buying group hosts its respective members awards event during the Sydney Fair, which sometimes causes scheduling issues for suppliers and retailers. This year, the three buying groups and other industry associations will gather for a time and cost-effective event.
Expertise Events managing director Gary Fitz-Roy praised the buying groups for advancing the interests of the local jewellery trade in a collaborative manner.
“This will be a great celebration for the whole industry,” he told Jeweller.
“While the groups have traditionally held independent dinners and awards, it’s become increasingly difficult for suppliers in terms of both time and cost. This new initiative affords us the opportunity to all come together — one night, one celebration, one industry.”
At the recent Australian Jewellery Fair on the Gold Coast, many people noted the positive presence and activities of the three buying groups, and similar feedback was generated during last year’s International Jewellery Fair.
The ‘Bling It On’ event will be open to all retailers, including independent stores and manufacturing jewellers as well as industry suppliers.
In addition, this year’s Sydney Fair will feature key industry associations, such as the Gemmological Association Australia (GAA), the National Council of Jewellery Valuers (NCJV), and the Opal Association of Australia (OAA).
After the success of last year’s Mystery Box Challenge for jewellery apprentices, Fitz-Roy said students are also encouraged to attend the event.
“The ‘Bling It On’ evening will not only be a night of glamour, networking, and recognition — it also represents a smarter, more streamlined approach to industry engagement,” Fitz-Roy added.
“I know exhibitors and suppliers will fully support the concept and use the night to take more of their staff along as well. It brings efficiency and unity to the forefront, allowing the entire community to celebrate achievements, strengthen relationships, and toast to the future together.”
“I commend the buying groups for coming together and putting the good of the industry first. Along with independent and manufacturing jewellers, and the major associations all supporting one night of celebration that unites the whole industry, it opens the doors to wider collaboration.”
A committee with representatives from each buying group will organise the event. The date, time and location of the event will be announced in the coming weeks. The International Jewellery Fair is hosted at the International Convention and Exhibition Centre in Sydney’s Darling Harbour.
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Credit: jewellermagazine.com
