NORWALK, Connecticut — This year, the Jewelers International Showcase (JIS) jewelry trade show broke records. Domestic and international attendance at JIS Spring 2022, held March 13-15 at the Miami Beach Convention Center in Miami Beach, Florida, increased more than 26% over the previous year. 322 exhibitors offered everything from bridal, diamond and classic jewelry to watches, loose gemstones, equipment and supplies. Attendees were more than eager to see the products, which were spread across four pavilions, including a new Turkish pavilion and a high-end product showcase. Overall, the show doubled in size from last year, reaching 64,216 square feet this year.
“The excitement and demand from our buyers for in-person product sourcing was palpable,” said Lauren van Rensburg, JIS’s marketing director. Post-show survey responses revealed that the primary draw was the critical need for product replenishment and purchasing as the jewelry industry continues to rebound.
“JIS is known for bringing together buyers and retailers from unique markets including the Southeastern United States, Latin America, Mexico, the Caribbean and more, providing the efficiency of purchasing from a wide range of finished jewelry suppliers during ideal buying times. We invest heavily in attracting these buyers to our events, and with the U.S. borders now open, it’s great to see growth in these segments,” she said. The largest increase was from Latin America, up 81% from 2021. The number of participants from the Caribbean increased by 65%. This year, the number of Canadian participants more than doubled.
National attendance also increased, with on-site registrations up 33 percent from the previous year, Rensburg said. The largest influxes of national participants came from Florida, New York, Texas, California and Michigan.
“Attendees provided positive feedback that JIS Spring was an ‘impressive and productive show’ with a great selection of products and exhibitors, with plenty of cash and take-home options,” van Rensburg added.
Show organizers also announced that Sara McDonough, former director of the JIS Platinum Club and special events, will take over as director of events for JIS. She replaces Jordan Tuchband, who was promoted to group vice president, overseeing RX-US’s safety, transportation, natural disaster and card-not-present brands.
JIS shows are produced by RX USA, which produces more than 400 events in 22 countries.
Contact Lauren van Rensburg at (203) 840-5311 or lauren.vanrensburg@rxglobal.com