IIJS 2006 Opens with High Expectations for Local Retailers

The India International Jewellery Show (IIJS) opened today (Thursday) with 1,500 local jewelry, diamond, and gem exhibitors hoping for high attendance from Indian retailers. Organizers are expecting over 35,000 visitors at the Bombay Exhibition Grounds.

The show has Turkish and Italian pavilions, with hopes of adding a Thai pavilion next year.

Diamond Trading Company (DTC) Sightholders brought their local brands to the show, displaying a wide range of lines, to fit different pockets and occasions. Local independent jewelry manufacturers brought out big items in traditional designs set with cut diamonds and a variety of semi-precious stones.

Over the next few days seminars, fashion shows and panel discussions will be offered to visitors and exhibitors by show organizers.

In a highly fragmented retail jewelry market – only about 3 percent of India’s jewelry stores belong to retail chains – manufacturers can use a venue that will bring potential clients to them.

India’s middle class is experiencing a sprouting growth. Men in their early thirties, with university degrees and jobs in the country’s booming hi-tech industry, earn some 35,000 rupees ($800) per month and save about 30 percent of their income while living with their parents. This is the target audience of many jewelers attending the show.