IDI To Emphasize Branding at Basel Show
March 16, 04
The Israel Diamond Institute (IDI) plans to emphasize diamond branding at BaselWorld 2004, the largest and most important jewelry, watch and diamond show in Europe and will host a panel of diamond branders at its annual press breakfast on April 16.
Leading industry branders will take part in the IDI event entitled ‘Marketing and Branding in the Diamond Industry - Israeli Case Studies’.
IDI has also upgraded its presence at the show, with a newly designed industry image booth located in Hall 3.0, Stand P31. The IDI booth will feature the recently launched IDI web portal as well as a new film about the Israeli industry.
Israel’s diamond industry will be strongly represented, with dozens of Israeli diamantaires exhibiting, mainly in Halls 3 and 6.
IDI Chairman Simcha Lustig said that this year the Israel diamond industry would be looking towards greater penetration of European markets, in addition to developing new markets, such as China.
"Europe is a huge market and the closest one to Israel geographically. Although traditionally the Israeli diamond industry has been strongest in North America and the Far East, we feel that we need to strengthen relations with our trading partners in Europe. We intend to underscore these relations with high-level diamond trade missions which we are planning to several European markets," Lustig said.
In 2003, the Israel diamond industry posted a record high level of polished exports, exceeding $5.5 billion. Since the beginning of 2004, polished exports have jumped 15 percent, reaching $1.184 billion compared to $1.032 billion in the same period of 2003.