Reports of steady order-writing, new business, and quality booth traffic streamed in from exhibiting companies Atlanta Jewelry Show, held March 1-3 at the Cobb Galleria Centre in Atlanta, despite a slight attendance dip.

The show’s attendance tracked slightly behind the 2007 edition, which was among the largest in the event’s history, according to show organizers. Buyers responded enthusiastically to the show’s growing roster of special programs and features, including the enhanced SJTA Rewards program, Jewels for Charity Hollywood Collection, Buyer Gala, and SJTA U educational series.

“We’re quite pleased with the upbeat feedback we’ve received from exhibitors and buyers alike, especially in light of the current business climate,” says Carol Young, executive director, Southern Jewelry Travelers Association, producers of the Atlanta Jewelry Show. “The business activity on the show floor, coupled with positive responses we received to current and new show initiatives, reinforce the strength and resiliency of our industry, and the show itself,  despite challenging economic times. “

Show organizers said exhibitors reported brisk sales and steady traffic throughout the show, which continues to attract retailers from throughout the southeast region as well as increasing numbers from other parts of the country.

The show welcomed 34 new first-time vendors to the growing list of 800-plus top-name companies in virtually every category.

The March’s show’s product selection was complemented by a full roster of programs and new initiatives, including the enhanced SJTA Rewards program. Retailers still earn reward points for every dollar spent at the show, but a new awarding process now ensures that retailers will quickly and easily earn even more points, which can then be redeemed for a rewards, including electronics, and luxury travel packages.

Retailers had the opportunity to sharpen their business skills by attending educational programs ranging from the Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America pre-show conference offering a full day of concentrated programming, to the full roster of seminars, roundtable discussions and other programs comprising the popular SJTU educational series.

Another show highlight was a special presentation of the Kazanjian Foundation’s Jewels for Charity Hollywood Collection, which tours to fine jewelry stores, galleries, and museums worldwide. Hosted by Jewelers For Children, and sponsored by Jewelers Mutual Insurance Company and the Atlanta Jewelry Show, the famed collection was on display in the Point of View: A Designer Gallery. In addition to viewing the collection itself, retailers had the opportunity to learn how to host the collection in their own stores to build traffic and raise charitable funds.  

With a nod to the Hollywood Collection, the show captured the glitz and glamour of the stars and café society with the 2008 Paint the Town Red Buyer Gala at the Renaissance Waverly Hotel. During the evening, exhibitors and buyers experienced  the red carpet treatment synonymous with the golden era of Hollywood while they enjoyed live music,  complementary hors d’oeuvres and cocktails.

The next edition of the Atlanta Jewelry Show will be held Aug. 9-11.

JCK