The Prime Jewelry Group said that seven new supplier firms have joined the group and will be exhibiting in the organization’s 2009 buying events. The new firms are Bergio, De Hago, Frederic Sage, Jenny Perl, Leslie’s, Sethi Couture/Manak, and Philip Andre.

Prime Jewelry Group stages two invitation-only events for independent retail jewelers annually. This year, the 2009 events will take place Aug. 23 and 24 at the InterContinental Hotel in Boston, and Oct. 4 and 5 at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Sarasota, Fla.

Qualified retailers can select which event to attend, as well as their level of participation based on their buying commitments. Retailers are rewarded with luxury hotel accommodations, roundtrip airfare for two, airport transfers, breakfast, gourmet lunch buffets, cocktails and beverages during the show, a cocktail reception opening night, and other social events.

“Prime is a luxurious buying experience, and an alternative to the larger shows. Our attendees prefer it because Prime provides an opportunity for retailers to take care of all their buying needs while forging stronger relationships with their suppliers,” said Elly Adler, principal of Elma•Gil and Marketing Chairman for the Prime Jewelry Group. “It gives us a chance to recognize and reward independent retailers with a luxurious show experience. The vendors are carefully selected firms, representing nationally advertised brands with a proven record of consumer demand.”

Prime Jewelry Group events have been “by invitation only” to a group of retailers who do business with Prime Group exhibitors. Beginning in 2009, retailers interested in attending Prime who were not previously on the guest list may apply for admission. Retailers may select participation levels which range from a $15,000 to $50,000 buying commitment, with rewards rising as their buying level increases. A Day Pass option is also available, which requires pre-approval and pre-registration, but no buying commitment. Day Pass participants enjoy all of the hospitalities of the event offered in the exhibit area. The events are staged and managed by the Southern Jewelers Trade Association for Prime Group members and there is no on-site registration.

Retailers interested in attending may contact Libby Brown at lbrown@primejewelrygroup.com, or call 1-800-241-0399.

JCK