IJL opens in challenging economic climate, footfall brisk
LONDON, September 4, 2016 – International Jewellery London (IJL) opened on Sunday against a tough economic outlook in the United Kingdom following the Brexit vote, although buyers from around the world turned out in force at the annual trade show.
As well as the British trade, Indian, German and Hong Kong suppliers featured prominently at IJL, an important barometer for gauging the state of the UK jewellery industry, which runs from 4 to 6 September 2016 at Olympia GRAND, London.
Photo by Kirti
The event showcased the most innovative designers and brands from the UK and around the world with a host of new international companies making their debut at this ‘must visit’ industry event.
With over 500 exhibitors from 33 countries, the line-up includes an array of individual companies from countries such as Australia, Columbia, Brazil, Greece, Germany and Denmark, besides some high profile country pavilions from Hong Kong, South Africa and Sri Lanka, together with the European Village. Sam Willoughby, Show Director, has said that the aim was to deliver an amazing show that met the needs of all sectors of the industry – from the latest trend information to the ultimate in design inspiration.
James Newman, the high profile designer, returned to IJL offering style conscious, innovative, and handcrafted jewellery for the design aware customer. Sarah Ho London launched new designs for her award-winning Numerati Collection, which has caught the imagination of customers worldwide, especially in cultures where numbers have a significant meaning and are considered auspicious, while Rachel Galley, a regular exhibitor at IJL, showcased several new ranges featuring gemstones and pearls.
Photo by Kirti
“I am launching about 10 new collections for IJL this year, including ‘Tesoro’ — a revival of an older collection I did which is solid sterling silver with really intriguing links. I am launching a new amethyst and topaz range called ‘Misto’. I have a nice, broad spectrum for the retailer,” Galley told Jewellery Outlook, adding that a vote by Britons earlier this year to leave the European Union did not appear to have dampened the spirit.
“I have not seen any impact of Brexit so far. People seem to be busy and wanting to re-order and buy the products if they are not already a customer. It seems to be quite a positive vibe, which is good.”
Photo by Kirti
The trade fair witnessed hoards of enthusiastic visitors, with products displayed at the show ranging from metal shaped figurines to finely cut gemstones. It also featured a catwalk show. The routine was put together well as it was at a relaxed pace – slow enough for the jewellery to be taken in – but not too slow to make it feel tedious.
FOCUS ON GERMANY
Germany, renowned for its fine and high end silver jewellery, has been selected as the IJL Market Focus for 2016. This international business initiative, launched last year with a focus on Italy and a group of innovative Italian companies, aims to facilitate links and boost trade between UK jewellery industry members and their international counterparts. More than a dozen German companies are showcasing their new collections and flagship pieces at IJL 2016 to provide an insightful view of the very best of German design and creativity.
Photo by Kirti
Elite designers from the UK, alongside those from Sweden, Australia and Brazil, presented the very best in fine and contemporary jewellery with the launch of exciting new collections, as well as acclaimed signature pieces – highlighting IJL’s premier position as the only UK industry show with the biggest and most eclectic selection of UK and International fine jewellery brands and designers.
IJL attracted jewellery and watch companies from every category. For the first time, brands such as Rose Carvalho from Brazil, Colpo & Zilio from Italy, Eleuterio from Portugal, fine jewellery designer David Miracca from London, Drakenberg Sjolin from Denmark, Grew & Co from Australia, Astley Clarke from the UK and Clogau from Wales participated at the show. Returning acclaimed designers are James Newman, Alex Monroe, Andrew Geoghegan, Rachel Galley and Sarah Jordan, who join major established brands like Charles Green, IBB London, UNOde50, Domino, Bronzallure, Nikki Lissoni and Unique.
Photo by Kirti
Domino presented new designs in their ‘Rosabella’ range of diamond earrings, necklaces and bracelet suites in 18ct gold. Christmas pieces included a selection of new diamond bracelets as well as new pieces in the Belle ile, the on-trend richly-hued gemstone collection.
The show has also featured 10 talented IJL KickStarters: Joanna Bury, Emily, Emma Calvert, Sammy Jo Coxon, Cecile Gilbert, Vicky Lew, Lucas Mitchell, Charlotte Scott Moncrieff, Marina Skia and Laura Vilppula.
The casting, 3D printing and bespoke manufacturing company Weston Beamor displayed examples of a new project casting Poppy Pins designed to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Battle of the Somme in 1916.
Photo by Kirti
Award-winning Welsh jewellery brand Clogau exhibited at IJL for the first time this year, showcasing its stunning new collections at the show. Celebrating its Welsh and British royal roots with its campaign Gold of Royalty, Clogau presented a dazzling Autumn/Winter with key new collections and striking additions to current best-selling lines at IJL 2016.
