JA New York’s four-day show wraps up

New York--Although the threat of a snowstorm and a closely scheduled fair in Hong Kong surrounded the JA New York Winter show this year, buyers turned out to shop the floor for the extended four-day show.

“I like the show. It’s a great regional show, it’s easy to work and it’s an opportunity for vendors to expose themselves to buyers like me, who are looking for more unusual pieces,” said Gary Thrapp, president of G. Thrapp Jewelers in Indianapolis.

Still, the threat of a snowstorm in New York City, inclement weather nearby and the proximity of the Hong Kong show seemed to discourage some would-be attendees.

“I think the weather kept a lot of people away,” Adwar Casting Co. President Gregg Adwar said on Tuesday afternoon. “But we did see traffic and customers. It’s been a good show, we wrote orders every day, and I’ll be here again in July.”

Another exhibitor said he believed that business was beginning to boom again, as his customers placed orders at the show that were larger than in years past.

Educational seminars sponsored by Jewelers of America took place on Sunday and Monday at this year’s show and included sessions on retailing in the Internet age, how retailers should choose suppliers, being “likeable” on social media and capitalizing on custom design.

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“Jewelers of America was excited to offer an education program designed to help jewelers navigate new challenges and increase their professionalism and profitability. It was great to see show attendees taking advantage of this opportunity by attending the program and getting insight on hot topics like social media and customization,” said Susan Posnock, director of public affairs and education at JA.

Show organizers also gave away a total of $36,000 to attending buyers this year, via raffles held on Saturday, Sunday and Monday. The drawing afforded 12 winners $2,500 and six winners $1,000 to spend at the show.

The JA New York Summer show is next, and is scheduled for July 27 to 29.