The show saw its largest attendance in its 36th year

The JIS Miami October show, which ran Oct. 15–18, saw its highest-ever attendance. The Miami Beach event reported a 16 percent increase over attendance at the 2014 show. The rise also made this year’s show the largest year-to-year attendance increase in its 36-year history. This is the first year that the show opened as a part of Reed Exhibitions.

“There was a new energized excitement about the show now that it’s a part of Reed Exhibitions and the Reed Jewelry Group,” said JIS industry vice president Jordan Tuchband in a press release. “You could feel it even before the doors opened at 10 a.m. on October 15, and the lines at registration were astonishing—unlike anything I’ve seen in my time with JIS.”

Also notably adding to the success of the JIS Miami October show was the number of exhibiting companies, in-demand product, and high-quality, enthusiastic retailers in attendance. “I love the ‘new’ show,” said Carolyn Thamkul, executive vice president of exhibiting company Belle Étoile. “You can already see all the changes and how customers are positively responding. The show has more to offer than ever before, which is a direct correlation to the elevated caliber of both exhibitors and retailers.”

Held alongside JIS Miami in a private ballroom, the first LUXURY Miami show (Oct. 16–18) was a frequented event for guests, boasting a number of new and expanded pavilions including HKJMA and the Plumb Club. Attendees were delighted with upgraded, relaxing lounges throughout the show floor offering snacks and beverages, a three-course meal at the Hidden Gem Café, and the Galleria Lounge, with its modern, sophisticated environment. Galleria Lounge was the location for one of the most-talked-about events: JIS’ first-ever Retailer of the Year Award, presented to Colombian Emeralds International.

Both JIS and LUXURY Miami together opened its doors to the media, inviting respected members from print, television, and digital outlets throughout the Americas. Not only did this add to the general excitement buzzing throughout the show floor, but the tandem events impressed the media attendees with the array of offerings and ability to satisfy a range of trends in a number of different regions. “I was impressed by the large variety of products addressing a wide range of styles and prices,” said special reporter and sales manager from the Mexico-based Revista Watches World, Vianey Moreno. “The diversity of exhibitors provided the opportunity to be aware of the latest trends. I enjoyed making new contacts, and I look forward to participating in future events.”

The next JIS Miami trade-only event will be held January 16–18, 2016, at the Miami Beach Convention Center. For more information on that event, visit jisshow.com.

Brittany Siminitz

JCK Contributing Editor