DTC: Changes to Box Mix in Sights 6 – 10

The Diamond Trading Company (DTC) has made some changes to box assortments ahead of the current Sight. According to DTC spokeswoman Lynette Hori, the changes follow a production review. Early reports from Sightholders at this year's sixth Sight say that prices have effectively changed, mostly favorably.

“DTC reviews the six-month production forecast from its producer-partners before the start of each ITO (Intention to Offer) period,” says Hori. “This is done to have a better idea of the quantities of different categories of goods that are anticipated to be available to make up Sightholder boxes.

“As a result of this review, for the new ITO period (July to December 2006), we have made some changes to the mix of goods in order to maintain consistency over the next six months. This has led to some box prices going up and some box prices going down.”

At the previous Sight, held in June, De Beers Managing Director Gareth Penny told Sightholders De Beers would ensure that they remain competitive. From his statement, it was understood that prices would be reduced. However, those holding rough stocks feared a price reduction, which would harm the value of their stock.

Improving box assortments without changing its price is considered a way of supplying goods at a better price without having to announce a price change.