IJT Expands as Leading Business Centre in Asia

The 17th International Jewellery Tokyo (IJT) 2006, held from January 25 to 28 at Tokyo Big Sight, concluded to its largest success ever, once again reaffirming itself as the representative jewellery trade show in Asia. With a record 1,519 exhibitors and 36, 178 visitors, the buzz on the floor was that this year was the most successful yet for Asia's first major jewellery trade show of the year.

From five halls in the previous year, IJT 2006 expanded its total exhibition area to its largest size ever, occupying a maximum six halls of the East Wing at Tokyo Big Sight, or a record 52,000 sq. meters of total gross exhibition space. This growth in exhibit area was the direct result of the record-breaking increases in exhibitor and figures at this year's IJT.

1,519 enthusiastic exhibitors turned out on the floor to show their products at IJT 2006, an increase of 181 exhibitors from the previous year. 990 exhibitors were from Japan, while 529 of the exhibitors came from overseas, representing 35 of the world's major global jewellery and gemstones producing regions. The show was equally diverse in terms of the range of products displayed. Everything from cutting-edge designer set pieces to new and advanced cuts of diamond; from the latest product design technologies to the finest pearls were to be found throughout the six exhibition halls. The huge variety of quality exhibitors attracted a record 36,178 registered visitors from throughout Japan and Asia, which in effect brought about four full days of heated business activity. The bulk of these visitors were retailers, wholesalers/distributors and manufacturers, representing all major Japanese regions from Hokkaido to Kyushu. In regards to international attendees, an increasing number of visitors from Asia and the rest of the world gathered at Japan's largest jewellery trade show, particularly from countries such as Korea, China, Hong Kong and Taiwan.

IJT 2006 has received strong praise from its exhibitors for providing some of the best on-site sales results ever. One factor for the increase in business results is the growing number of visitors attending the show for three or more consecutive days. This trend signifies the consensus among buyers that IJT is the year's best buying venue in Japan, and has led to an increase in on-site orders.

Strong business results reported by exhibitors are also brought about by the positive sentiments toward the Japanese economy. Various economic factors such as robust consumer spending and rising GDP are examples of the positive buoyancy in Japan's economic standing, thus contributing to the excellent results reported at IJT 2006.

IJT has created several special corners devoted to key domains of interest. Even more than previous years, each exhibit area at IJT 2006 experienced successful business results. Design World, a corner dedicated to the exhibiting of the world's most stunning original collections and brands, expanded significantly over last year, with a 27% increase in exhibitors. Great business success reported by exhibitors at Design World has increased this section's popularity, and has already led to a waiting list for exhibit space at IJT 2007. The Designers & Craftsmen Pavilion also captivated the hearts of many buyers at IJT 2006. Featuring the works of independent designers, this year 45 industry pros introduced their individual flair to Japanese and Asian buyers, as they put their cutting edge works on display.

IJT's great success in 2006 has fully affirmed its place as the core jewellery trade venue in Asia. Based on this year's strong performance, Show Management reports that IJT 2007, held from January 24-27 at the Tokyo Big Sight, already looks to be bigger and better than IJT 2006, with new applications coming in every day. What's more, 95% of IJT exhibitors have already signed on for IJT 2007 during the IJT 2006 show. Many of these returning exhibitors have also increased their space for the next show. This rapid booking of booth space has left a shortage of booths for IJT 2007, and space looks certain to be sold out soon.

IJK 2006 Sees Dramatic Expansion by 50%!
IJK Show Management is proud to announce the opening of a new venue hall at the 10th International Jewellery Kobe 2006, held from May 18th to the 20th at the port city of Kobe in Western Japan. This expansion will increase the total area size at IJK by 50%, marking a historic change for IJK. The increase in area is a result of Show Management's efforts to meet the enormous demand for space at IJK. In this light, the total number of exhibitors at IJK 2006 is forecasted at a record 600 exhibitors (450 domestic, 150 overseas). Visitors are estimated at a record 17,000 attendees. IJK 2006 will further introduce two new jewellery zones: the IJK Prestige and Design World.

IJK Prestige is tailored for exhibitors dealing in high-end, luxurious jewellery products. Top buyers from department stores and jewellery specialty retailers from Japan/Asia will attend to purchase the most exquisite jewellery. The Design World will feature some stunning original collections and brands. With the same concept as the successful Design World within IJT, IJK will bring to Western Japan some of the most fashionable and trend-setting brands the world over. Due to great demand, Show Management reports that space is extremely limited at IJK and will sell out quickly, even with the venue expansion. Contact Show Management today and find out how IJK can expand your business in Japan and Asia.