Baselworld 2020, scheduled for 30 April – 5 May, has been undergoing a profound transformation in response to the needs of both exhibitors and visitors who look forward to a more open, richer and connected watch and jewellery show amidst drastic changes in the global business environment.
Since last edition, the new management of Baselworld has taken a proactive approach to connect with trade practitioners. Several new initiatives were put in place last year which met with encouraging reviews in general. According to the show, the proposed developments for the new edition have generated positive reactions from professionals and have helped to stem the negative spiral experienced in recent years. “The number of exhibitors has not stopped growing,” said Michel Loris-Melikoff, managing director of Baselworld. “This allows us to be confident both for the 2020 edition and for the years to come.”
The growth in the gem and pearl sector is noticeable. Melikoff said: “As early as November [2019], we had already registered an increase of more than 50 percent in exhibitors in this sector. This is very significant and shows that the boundaries are shifting.” The section is relocated in Hall 2 with exhibitors grouped together on a single level, making Baselworld a major global buying and selling platform for precious gemstones.
The new Community District comes as another important initiative addressing to exhibitors’ needs. The new section located in Hall 1 is a new complex of several large buildings, with each housing two to three watch brands in a transparent and harmonious setting. Melikoff said some of the exhibitors who chose to leave the fair two years ago have decided to return in 2020, for instance, Maurice Lacroix.
To cope with the growing needs of independent watchmakers for a multi-faceted business channel, Baselworld 2020 will be offering three distinct spaces for them, namely Les Ateliers, the Watch Gallery and the Incubator.
Besides trade practitioners, the fair will provide the public with an exciting line-up of programmes at the Show Plaza inaugurated last year on new technologies, current challenges and market outlook. To offer visitors a single contact point to plan for their trips in Basel, Baselworld 2020 has set up a new centralised e-concierge service to facilitate all booking requests from visitors. (Photo courtesy: Baselworld)
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