A Premier Event

Although some may question the logic behind adding yet another trade show to the industry’s already busy calendar, on the final day of the Premier show, exhibitors were generally enthusiastic about the inaugural outing of this new, exhibitor-owned event.

The majority of exhibitors at Premier had previously shown at the Couture event, which was being held down the road at the Wynn. In fact, Premier evolved out of dissatisfaction with the Couture organizers’ decision to turn their event into a six-day show that competes directly with JCK Las Vegas.

“The majority of the exhibitors at Premier also exhibit at JCK’s Prestige Pavilion,” said Robert Bridel, executive director of Premier. “Most like the business that they generate at JCK and don’t want to give that up.”

The decision to move away from Couture seems to have been a success for most participants. “A number of exhibitors have told me that they have done the best business of any show during the first two days of Premier,” said Bridel. “Many are also telling us that they want more space to exhibit next year, and a number of exhibitors who weren’t invited to participate this year have expressed their desire to be a part of Premier in 2008.”

“We’ve been booked solid ever hour of ever day,” said Kendra Weinman of DTC Sightholder Tache. “We’ve done better this year than last year and JCK itself is also booked solid. We’ve got 50 percent more appointments lined up.” Speaking about the appointment-driven nature of the show, she said, “If you come here thinking that you are going to get a ton of foot traffic passing through, then you are going to be disappointed. If you do your homework beforehand, and make plenty of appointments like we did, then you are going to be very happy.”

Menachem Senderowicz of New York-based A. Link characterized the show as “Fantastic.” The A. Link booth was busy as soon as the show opened each morning and was heaving throughout the day. “It’s been non-stop, he said. We’ve been doing four appointments every hour and it’s not just us. I looked around last night at 5.30 and at least 75 percent of the booths had buyers in writing orders.”

It was not only the diamond exhibitors who were busy. Joseph Gad of emerald supplier Joseph Gad Inc had also seen good business. “It’s primarily been clients with appointments,” he observed, “but there have also been some new customers walking through. The quiet and relaxed nature of the show gives more time to sit down with clients.”